The Art of Song in Middle Earth: A Reflection of Tolkien’s Vision

Introduction to the Significance of Songs in Middle Earth

The question often arises why the books of Middle Earth, particularly those written by J.R.R. Tolkien, contain so many songs and poems. This is not just a stylistic choice but reflects a deeper understanding and reverence for music as an art form, a reflection of Tolkien’s own scholarly and personal interests. This article delves into the significance of songs in Middle Earth and how they contribute to the rich tapestry of the narrative.

Tolkien's Proclivity for Epic Poetry

One of the key reasons for the prevalence of songs in The Lord of the Rings and other works is Tolkien's professional and personal fascination with the Epic as a storytelling device. He was a renowned scholar of Old English literature, particularly Beowulf, and had published an analysis of the poem, making him well-versed in the complex and often lyrical nature of ancient Germanic and Anglo-Saxon literature.

Additionally, Tolkien was an esteemed poet in his own right. His early works on Middle Earth, such as The Lay of the Children of Hurin, The Lay of Leithian, and The Fall of Gondolin, were all composed in the form of epic poems. This poetic inclination naturally influenced his literary work on Middle Earth, making songs and poetry a significant component of the narrative.

Singing and Storytelling in Middle Earth

The practice of breaking into songs or recitations is not unusual within the world of Middle Earth. In fact, it can be argued that singing or reciting poetry serves as a traditional method of profound communication. Consider the following:

Aragorn: He recited parts of the Lay of Leithian and helped Bilbo compose a song about Earendil the Mariner. Frodo: He sang or recited songs that he learned from Bilbo, and composed a song about Gandalf and his death. Legolas: As an Elf, Legolas is naturally associated with singing and poetry, reflecting the artistic nature of his race. Gimli: He recited the Song of Durin, a crucial narrative element in his character development. Sam, Merry, and Pippin: Each of them had a song or poem at some point in the story, contributing to their individual journeys. Even the Hobbits, Men, the Elves, the Ents, and the Orcs in The Hobbit are shown to have songs or poems, suggesting a deeply ingrained cultural practice.

These examples illustrate how songs and poetry serve as a means of deeper communication, much like the difference between simply stating "Earendil was an ancient mariner who fathered Elrond and Elros" and breaking into an epic song about the character's life and deeds. Similarly, a phrase like "a pint of beer from the Green Dragon sure sounds good to me" might be conveyed more compellingly through a song or dance number, referring to the Green Dragon Inn and its reputation for quality ale.

Indicators of Boromir’s Character

While most characters in the Fellowship have songs or poems associated with them, Boromir stands out as the notable exception. This fact, however, speaks volumes about his character. The book describes Boromir as follows:

"Boromir was beloved by his father and was like him in face and pride, but in little else. Boromir's temperament was similar to King Earnur of old, he took no wife and was more interested in arms and warfare. He cared little for lore save for the tales of old battles."

This description highlights that Boromir's character is driven more by action and duty than by the artistic or cultural aspects that are so integral to the lives of other characters. His lack of songs and poems might be seen as a reflection of his pragmatic and combat-focused nature, a stark contrast to the artistic and spiritual leanings of other members of the Fellowship.

Conclusion

The prevalence of songs and poetry in Middle Earth is not incidental but a deliberate artistic choice that enriches the narrative, providing deeper insights into the characters and the world they inhabit. J.R.R. Tolkien’s own academic and personal interest in epic poetry and storytelling makes songs and poems a crucial element of his creations. Whether recited or sung, they serve to communicate profound messages and create a sense of cultural heritage and tradition that ties the characters and their world together.

Key Takeaways:

Popular characters like Aragorn, Frodo, and Legolas are known for their songs and poetry. Singing and poetry are traditional methods of profound communication in Middle Earth. The absence of songs for Boromir highlights his practical and combat-driven character. Tolkien’s interest in epic poetry and storytelling influences the use of songs in his works.

Related Keywords: Tolkien, epic poetry, Middle Earth, songs in literature, Beowulf