The influence of The Lord of the Rings on modern fantasy literature cannot be overstated. Following its publication, the book quickly garnered a cult-like following, ascending to global fame by the mid-1960s. Its appeal was multifaceted: countercultural audiences were drawn to its celebration of nature and simplicity over industrial ambition, while adventure seekers were captivated by its swift narrative pace. Scholars, too, began to recognize the meticulous craftsmanship Tolkien employed over decades to construct his intricate world. Today, virtually every fantasy author owes a substantial debt to Tolkien, either by direct inspiration or indirectly through the expanded audience and market for adult fantasy literature that he helped to create.

Over the years, The Lord of the Rings has been the subject of extensive scholarly study, ranging from enthusiastic early assessments by figures like W.H. Auden to modern formalist critiques. This scholarly interest has spawned a wide array of companion literature, including reference books, illustrations, glossaries, and various guides. While Tolkien’s expansive mythology of Middle-earth, The Silmarillion, was published in 1977, it did not achieve the same level of popularity, possibly due to its more complex and less narrative-driven nature.

The task of interpreting such a monumental work poses significant challenges. Tolkien himself was keen to distance his narrative from contemporary allegories, refuting notions that the Ring symbolized the atomic bomb or that the geopolitical conflicts of Middle-earth mirrored those of World War II or the Cold War. He emphasized that he had begun writing his tale long before these historical events and expressed a strong distaste for allegory. Tolkien insisted that his primary goal was to craft a compelling story capable of enthralling its readers. The enduring popularity and profound influence of his work serve as a testament to his success in achieving this ambition.