I am deep into a book called The War for Middle Earth by Jonathan Loconte, and had been embroiled in feeling what it must have been like in England during both World Wars, the Blitz, etc., acutely through the eyes of Tolkein and CS Lewis. And then hearing about his Beowulf lectures at Oxford. What a gift to know we can read them in 2026. And then your post comes along on Substack. Don't you just love it when that happens?
Thanks, Adrien! Very much appreciate the good words. Yes, I know Joe, and I just had a chance to review his book for National Review. It's excellent. Joe's a great scholar and writer. Again, thank you!
What a lovely essay! As a lifelong Tolkien fan, I've read his Beowulf lecture many times. You bring out aspects of the poem I've never considered before. Thank you!
Excellent piece Brad, I always learn so much from your writing. Looking forward to your new book. I’m working my way through the Ordway’s - “Tolkien’s Modern Reading.” Blessings, Mark
I am deep into a book called The War for Middle Earth by Jonathan Loconte, and had been embroiled in feeling what it must have been like in England during both World Wars, the Blitz, etc., acutely through the eyes of Tolkein and CS Lewis. And then hearing about his Beowulf lectures at Oxford. What a gift to know we can read them in 2026. And then your post comes along on Substack. Don't you just love it when that happens?
Thanks, Adrien! Very much appreciate the good words. Yes, I know Joe, and I just had a chance to review his book for National Review. It's excellent. Joe's a great scholar and writer. Again, thank you!
Sorry, I meant Joseph. Do you have link to your review?
Glory be, a fine essay.
Thanks, Truman!
Travel well and safe.
What a lovely essay! As a lifelong Tolkien fan, I've read his Beowulf lecture many times. You bring out aspects of the poem I've never considered before. Thank you!
Thank you so much, Ricky! Really appreciate your good words.
Excellent post, Brad! :) Hope the lecture went well, and YAY for _Tolkien in the West_!!
Excellent piece Brad, I always learn so much from your writing. Looking forward to your new book. I’m working my way through the Ordway’s - “Tolkien’s Modern Reading.” Blessings, Mark