Hi, I’m Melanie, a random girl from Idaho who happens to be obsessed with Payne and McKay’s The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power.
I began as a casual fan, having never read the books until I finished the show, and having previously, over time, lost all of my excitement for and interest in Entertainment (not because of the abnormal hatred towards the show, though I was well aware of it. I was simply not actively interested in watching films or series). Then, I saw the first two episodes of the first season in a theater with three of my siblings.
This series has the most expertly-crafted and dense story, and is the most faithful adaptation I have seen. Only one season has left such a strong impression on my mind, that my obsession has not diminished in the least since the finale (which is unusual for me, being notorious for my fleeting obsessions). Thanks to J.D. and Patrick, I finally found my love for this material. In my mind, the show is inseparable from the books. All I want now is to share as much of this excitement as possible to anyone who needs it, because my finite brain cannot contain it all.
In order to share the excitement, I will attempt to peel back the layers of the show, dissecting scenes, characters, Bear McCreary’s incredible score, and the great volumes of text that inspired the writers, penned by Tolkien himself. I hope you will bear with me as I ramble.
It is difficult to say anything without saying too much: the attempt to say a few words opens a floodgate of excitement […] I shall inflict some of this on you; but I will append a mere résumé of its contents: which is (may be) all that you want or will have use or time for.
J.R.R. Tolkien, From a Letter by J.R.R. Tolkien to Milton Waldman, 1951
I have learned much from media and fan responses surrounding the marketing and subsequent release of this series. One of the most important lessons is that another person’s opinion can never serve as a reliable foundation of one’s own. Often, people whom we thought we could trust may not catch certain creative elements that are obvious to others, and quickly claim that the creators must have made unforgiveable errors. Relying upon those whose whole business is “hasty and controversial reactions” can cause us to overlook crucial details, and we can miss out on the actual story the writers endeavored to tell.
If you want to find the truth, form your own opinion, and be able to hold your ground, you must begin with a fresh mind and study for yourself. I learned this the hard way more than once.
Unnecessary disclaimer: I am not affiliated with any individual or company. I’m just a simple fan who thinks too much.