|
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
TORn Amateur Symposium
Bree
Sep 22 2013, 9:55am
Post #1 of 61
(2697 views)
Shortcut
|
TORn Amateur Symposium - November 2013. Call For Submissions Thread.
|
Can't Post
|
|
Following on from the success of the first TORn Amateur Symposium, we are pleased to present the Second TORn Amateur Symposium (TAS2), this November! Thank you to everybody who contributed to TAS last time - we've included links at the bottom of this post to everyone's essays. It is never too late to join in. Our committee of 3, (Brethil, elaen32 and DanielLB ), and judging by all your feedback, really enjoyed the first Symposium. So without further delay, here are the details you need to know for TAS2:
Overview:
TORn Amateur Symposium is an opportunity for us to share our written ideas on Tolkien-related subjects, in a more detailed way than the usual posts on the boards.
Some general categories to consider writing topics within are:
- Flora/Fauna of Middle Earth
- Art, Literature and Philosophy
- Natural Science, Geology and Weather
- Peoples and Cultures of Middle Earth.
These are just some suggestions based on the last symposium. But remember, your ideas are limitless! Geography, history, ethnology, linguistics, botany, mythology and onomastics ... if you can write an essay about it, we'd love to read it!
Below is our proposed schedule for the TAS2:
Submission and deadline dates:
Sunday 22nd September- Introductory thread/Call for submissions thread
That’s this one!
Don’t panic yet! All you have to do is express interest in writing an essay for TAS. Either respond to this thread, or alternativel PM Brethil or DanielLB. And of course, get those thinking caps on! Through the symposium process, we will stay in contact with anyone that expresses interest in writing an essay for TAS.
Sunday 6th October - First reminder thread
This will be a reminder thread for everyone, and we will repeat the details and answer any question you might have. You can express interest in submitting an essay all the way until the closing date. So we want to make sure everyone has had a chance to think about writing an essay.
Sunday 20th October - Second reminder thread
This is the last reminder thread and not the closing date. Between this thread and the first reminder thread, we would like to confirm with you your proposed topic and possible title (via PM). These will all be included in this thread. People are welcome to express interest all the way up until the closing date.
Sunday 03rd November – Submission closes thread
By this date, all submissions will have been sent to us (see “How To Submit Work”). Another summary of all the entries (and provisional dates) will also be posted.
Saturday 09th November - Anything after this date will, unfortunately, not be accepted.
The week period between this allows us to check all submissions, order all essays into appropriate sessions, and allow for last minute editing. If you are unable to submit before then, not to worry, there is always the next TAS (March/April time). We will accept late submissions, but only if you let us know ASAP.
Sunday 10th November - First TAS threads
All those hours of hard work from everyone will be presented on this date, and the following days!
TBC November - Feedback thread
As part of the symposium structure, we are always interested in ideas on what can (or should) be done, and what may or may not have worked. Feel free to tell us what you thought about the structure of the symposium, and any problems you experienced through this process. We will also tell you about the next TAS and provisional dates. The date for the feedback thread will be confirmed once we know how we are going to stagger each of the essays.
Some Guidelines for the TORn Amateur Symposium:
We're not looking for flawlessly polished, professionally cited work. This is for fun and enjoyment, and to share our common love of the JRR Tolkien universe: thus the title! We would like to see your original ideas, which tie in somehow to the works of Tolkien; they can be written from an academic, opinion or real-world perspective. Citations and references, although not required, may be helpful at times to readers, and feel free to use them as appropriate to support your writing. Discussion of the work is most heartily encouraged, keeping in mind both the "by the fans, for the fans" nature of the creations, as well as the dual spirit of fun and inquiry which we would like to promote in this Symposium series. We expect to have a Symposium 3-4 times annually. So if you miss a date, don't worry overmuch; you can always submit at the next round.
We have great regard for the creativity of our members, and very much look forward to reading your thoughts, TORn brethren!
Some changes from the last symposium:
The first TAS had a a word limit of 2,000 words for each essay. For this TAS, we have removed the limit altogether. As a result, your piece can be as short or as long as you like. However, we do recommend not writing too excessively, due to the short time-frame of TAS, and the limited time of potential readers and responders to your essay. We think a word count of 2,000 - 3,000 is a good length.
We have also altered the way in which essays will be posted when the Symposium officially starts. Previously, essays were grouped into similar categories, and a new session was posted each day. From the feedback thread, it was suggested that too many essays were posted too often. So we will confirm when (and how often) essays will be posted, once all the authors have submitted their work. Depending on the number of essays, we will stagger them over a 1-2 week period.
We would also like all authors to submit a short (100-300 words) abstract of their essay. This is simply to provide an overview of your essay to potential readers. Keeping in mind of the guidelines above, this only has to be very short. These will be posted in the session thread with the link to your essay. An abstract might cover: what you are writing about, why you are writing about it, what evidence/details/points you make, and what conclusions you come to.
We will happily answer any questions you might have about these changes. Feel free to ask!
How To Submit Work:
It starts with an idea (doesn't it always!) You can describe your idea in the Call for Submissions thread (that's this one!). Feel free to PM DanielLB or Brethil with any questions or concerns that you may have. We ask that all essays are submitted by Sunday 03rd November. Of course earlier submission is fine, feel free to submit your piece when you feel it is ready. And if Real Life interferes, just let us know - expressing interest isn't a commitment, and if you need to, you can post in the next Symposium - or just read along with us!
Please submit your pieces via the TAS email address, which is tornamateursymposium@gmail.com. If possible, submit your pieces as Word or other document format attached to your email, rather than in the body of the email. If possible, please submit your abstract within the body of the email. Brethil, DanielLB and elaen32 all have access to the email account and to the TAS account and will be reading and responding to emails/postings and queries as soon as we can.
We will do a quick look-over of the piece for any potential editing concerns (like those troublesome, sneak-attack typos) and to make certain that all pieces comply with TORn's ToS guidelines. (We can't post anything in that may be in violation, but if questions arise we will contact the author to resolve any issues.) All finished pieces will then be posted for display and discussion on a given date.
Queries:
If you have queries or concerns, please send a PM via the TAS id- it will be read by Brethil, Daniel or elaen32, depending on who gets there first. Please try and give us a little time to respond, since we may be at work or not otherwise in a position to give an immediate answer. If, however, you think that your query would be of more general interest to others, then you can also post it as a reply to this, or subsequent TAS threads.
July TAS essays:
The links below will take you to the TAS threads. All links to the original essays can be found in the respective original post.
The Physics of The Hobbit: Part 1 & 2, by DwellerInDale
Models of Dragon Ontology, by Nordwharf
On the communication between animals and the free peoples of Middle Earth, by Rembrethil
Sentient Animals in the world of J.R.R. Tolkien, by Elizabeth
Falling into untended age: Ithilien as a post-pastoral land, by squire
Sudden climate change or anthropogenic interference? An evaluation into the loss of a vast forest in Lindon and South Eriador, by DanielLB
The Real Villain of The Hobbit - An Analysis on Greed, by Cirashala
The Battle of Five Armies - An analysis into the size of the armies involved, by Arandir
Would You Destroy It? A Look at the Corrupting Nature of the One Ring, by Rangerfromthenorth
Concepts of healing in Middle Earth as illustrated in The Lord of the Rings, by elaen32
Intuition in The Lord of the Rings, by Lothwen
The Silmarillion as Awakening to the "Real World" and Adulthood, by Telain
Who was the original owner of Orcrist?, by DarkJackal
We are incredibly excited about TAS2, and look forward to the wonderful essays that will be submitted. Happy scribbling!
Elaen, Brethil & Daniel
|
|
|
DanielLB
Immortal
Sep 22 2013, 2:18pm
Post #2 of 61
(1735 views)
Shortcut
|
That's my essay this time around!
I'll be writing about why the fog formed on the Barrow-downs, mainly through Tolkien's description of the weather. My conclusion isn't that different to my last essay, but you'll have to wait and see. 
|
|
|
noWizardme
Half-elven
Sep 22 2013, 4:10pm
Post #3 of 61
(1730 views)
Shortcut
|
|
My working title is "Narrating Middle-earth"
[In reply to]
|
Can't Post
|
|
Tolkien uses a variety of narrators to convey his story, well aware that his choices will have a fundamental influence on how we see the events, and those relating them or being described. His range covers:
1) First person character narration ("Long time I fell...")
2) Omnipotent narrator (like - "Gandalf and the Balrog plummeted together...")
3) Free indirrect style, in which we are given a particular character's perspective (like - "As Gandalf fell from the bridge, he felt the Balrog's fire about him...)...
4) In in the Hobbit, we also get a first person narrator (which would be something like - "Now I suppose you are wondering how Gandalf, who we last saw falling off a bridge, could possibly have survived...")
I want to pick out examples, discuss his choices and the effect they have on the audience.
Disclaimers: The words of noWizardme may stand on their heads! I'm often wrong about things, and its fun to be taught more....
"nowimë I am in the West, Furincurunir to the Dwarves (or at least, to their best friend) and by other names in other lands. Mostly they just say 'Oh no it's him - look busy!' "
Or "Hold off! unhand me, grey-beard loon!"
|
|
|
Brethil
Half-elven
Sep 22 2013, 6:52pm
Post #4 of 61
(1715 views)
Shortcut
|
Look forward to reading it!
Is there a Tolkien topic that you have wanted to look into more deeply, and write about your thoughts on it? If so, we'd like to hear from you for the next TORn Amateur Symposium- coming in November. Happy writing!
|
|
|
Demosthenes
Sr. Staff
Sep 24 2013, 2:37pm
Post #5 of 61
(1686 views)
Shortcut
|
|
My submission: Galadriel: political animal of Middle-earth
[In reply to]
|
Can't Post
|
|
I propose to submit an essay outlining how Galadriel worked as much, if not more, within the temporal/political sphere in Middle-earth as she did in the spiritual/magical realms.
If I have time, I may also submit a piece on Luthien's key role in the quest for the Silmarillion, and how, imho, her heroism outshines Beren's. Tentatively titled "Luthien, the real hero of the quest for the Silmaril?"
TheOneRing.net Senior Staff
IRC Admin and Hall of Fire moderator
|
|
|
Brethil
Half-elven
Sep 24 2013, 3:28pm
Post #6 of 61
(1669 views)
Shortcut
|
|
Great to hear from you Demosthenes!
[In reply to]
|
Can't Post
|
|
Both titles sound like very promising topics. Keep us posted, and very much look forward to seeing one or both of them!
Is there a Tolkien topic that you have wanted to look into more deeply, and write about your thoughts on it? If so, we'd like to hear from you for the next TORn Amateur Symposium- coming in November. Happy writing!
|
|
|
swordwhale
Tol Eressea
Sep 24 2013, 3:42pm
Post #7 of 61
(1691 views)
Shortcut
|
|
I have several pieces already written....
[In reply to]
|
Can't Post
|
|
...that I had done for hoots and giggles.
A Musing on Elves, Dwarves, Archetypes and Favorite Characters.
Faithful Sidekick: a musing on an obscure Tollkien character without whom many things in Middle Earth would not have come to pass (Voronwe ... what... who???)
That Darn Elf: stuff you may have missed about Legolas, and Elven archetypes in general, especially if you only watched the films...
To the Sea: a meditation on the Sea Longing and the potent archetypal imagery of water found in Tolkien's works
Go outside and play...
|
|
|
Brethil
Half-elven
Sep 24 2013, 4:16pm
Post #8 of 61
(1664 views)
Shortcut
|
Have a fondness for one or two you may want to submit? All of your ideas certainly sound like Symposium material!
Is there a Tolkien topic that you have wanted to look into more deeply, and write about your thoughts on it? If so, we'd like to hear from you for the next TORn Amateur Symposium- coming in November. Happy writing!
|
|
|
rangerfromthenorth
Rivendell
Sep 24 2013, 4:18pm
Post #9 of 61
(1664 views)
Shortcut
|
I am considering writing on the often maligned Eru. That is daunting even just writing that sentence... We shall see!
Not all who wander are lost
|
|
|
Brethil
Half-elven
Sep 24 2013, 4:21pm
Post #10 of 61
(1655 views)
Shortcut
|
That sounds quite intriguing Ranger! If you have the time, we should love to have another piece from you this time around! (Maybe Eru will make sure you find that time... )
Do keep us posted!
Is there a Tolkien topic that you have wanted to look into more deeply, and write about your thoughts on it? If so, we'd like to hear from you for the next TORn Amateur Symposium- coming in November. Happy writing!
|
|
|
Ninrandir
Registered User
Sep 24 2013, 5:40pm
Post #11 of 61
(1644 views)
Shortcut
|
|
Revealed in this Wrath: The Matter of Glorfindel
[In reply to]
|
Can't Post
|
|
I will hopefully be submitting a piece by the above name--"Revealed in his Wrath: The Matter of Glorfindel"--and hope to explore not only the origins of the character of Glorfindel, but to rectify the connection between the two instances of the name, why it's important to connect them, and offer a characterization comparison between Glorfindel and Denethor II.
Lurker, broken silence. Feels good to breathe again.
|
|
|
Brethil
Half-elven
Sep 24 2013, 5:52pm
Post #12 of 61
(1640 views)
Shortcut
|
|
Fantastic! Looking forward to it!
[In reply to]
|
Can't Post
|
|
Love the historical tracings.
And a very hearty Welcome to TORn, Ninrandir!
Is there a Tolkien topic that you have wanted to look into more deeply, and write about your thoughts on it? If so, we'd like to hear from you for the next TORn Amateur Symposium- coming in November. Happy writing!
|
|
|
Ninrandir
Registered User
Sep 24 2013, 6:08pm
Post #13 of 61
(1636 views)
Shortcut
|
|
I hope to do the community justice!
[In reply to]
|
Can't Post
|
|
Thank you kindly! Thank you for the opportunity to get involved.
Lurker, broken silence. Feels good to breathe again.
|
|
|
DanielLB
Immortal
Sep 24 2013, 6:28pm
Post #14 of 61
(1629 views)
Shortcut
|
And I hope to see you in other parts of the forum.
Thanks for the interest in TAS!
|
|
|
Greater Smials
Registered User
Sep 25 2013, 2:11am
Post #15 of 61
(1620 views)
Shortcut
|
I'd like to submit two essays: one the geology of Middle-earth, and another on the overall population of Middle-earth.
|
|
|
Brethil
Half-elven
Sep 25 2013, 2:43am
Post #16 of 61
(1615 views)
Shortcut
|
Sounds promising - two very interesting and rich topics.
Keep us posted on your progress!
And a Welcome to TORn and the TAS!
Is there a Tolkien topic that you have wanted to look into more deeply, and write about your thoughts on it? If so, we'd like to hear from you for the next TORn Amateur Symposium- coming in November. Happy writing!
|
|
|
Greater Smials
Registered User
Sep 25 2013, 2:53am
Post #17 of 61
(1610 views)
Shortcut
|
Thanks Brethil . . . looking forward to it. :)
(This post was edited by Greater Smials on Sep 25 2013, 2:53am)
|
|
|
Lothwen
Rivendell
Sep 25 2013, 3:30pm
Post #18 of 61
(1589 views)
Shortcut
|
...write a piece for this TAS; I'm so busy with school, and this is right in the middle for exam time.  I barely been on TORn at all, lately.
I have several topics in mind, (mostly on the Elves of Silm) which will have to wait 'til next time. I'm looking forward to reading and discussing the essays in TAS2; sounds like there're going to be some cool pieces.
Followed by that awkwarder moment when you realize that you think this is awesome...
|
|
|
Brethil
Half-elven
Sep 25 2013, 3:36pm
Post #19 of 61
(1582 views)
Shortcut
|
|
Good luck with school Lothwen!
[In reply to]
|
Can't Post
|
|
And all that tiresome RL work.
We all so enjoyed your contribution last time. I hope you have time read along with us in November, and maybe you can catch us next time around, or for the special LOTR themed TAS next July.
Is there a Tolkien topic that you have wanted to look into more deeply, and write about your thoughts on it? If so, we'd like to hear from you for the next TORn Amateur Symposium- coming in November. Happy writing!
|
|
|
Ida
The Shire
Sep 25 2013, 4:14pm
Post #21 of 61
(1593 views)
Shortcut
|
|
Music and race in the movie adaptations
[In reply to]
|
Can't Post
|
|
I saw your CFP on Facebook, and thought it would be quite interesting to give it a try, so I've joined this site purely for this purpose.. Time will tell, if this was a good idea ;)
Anyway, seeing as I'm a music student, I was thinking of doing an essay on how music is used to portray race in the LoTR and Hobbit films :)
|
|
|
Brethil
Half-elven
Sep 25 2013, 4:18pm
Post #22 of 61
(1582 views)
Shortcut
|
Glad to see you, and hope you stick around - it is really a very fun place!
The music idea sounds great, and something we haven't explored yet, though there is great interest on the soundtracks all around TORn.
So great idea, and a big Welcome!
Is there a Tolkien topic that you have wanted to look into more deeply, and write about your thoughts on it? If so, we'd like to hear from you for the next TORn Amateur Symposium- coming in November. Happy writing!
|
|
|
DanielLB
Immortal
Sep 25 2013, 4:22pm
Post #23 of 61
(1574 views)
Shortcut
|
I'm glad you were encouraged to join the forum and write for TAS. We've not had an essay on music portrayal in the two trilogies yet, so I'm sure many will be interested.
If you have any questions about TAS (or the forum in general) feel free to PM TAS, Brethil or myself.
|
|
|
Ida
The Shire
Sep 25 2013, 4:43pm
Post #24 of 61
(1571 views)
Shortcut
|
And thanks for the encouragement, I shall probably need it at some point! :)
|
|
|
Brethil
Half-elven
Sep 25 2013, 5:11pm
Post #25 of 61
(1571 views)
Shortcut
|
That's what a Fellowsip is for
[In reply to]
|
Can't Post
|
|
Feel free to PM the TAS or one of us if you have any questions Ida!
Is there a Tolkien topic that you have wanted to look into more deeply, and write about your thoughts on it? If so, we'd like to hear from you for the next TORn Amateur Symposium- coming in November. Happy writing!
|
|
|
elaen32
Gondor
Sep 25 2013, 8:29pm
Post #26 of 61
(453 views)
Shortcut
|
I'm off the boards for 2 days and everything explodes! Thanks a lot NoWiz, Demosthenes,Swordwhale, Ranger, Ninrandir, Greater Smials and Ida! And, of course, Daniel! Some wonderful and interesting ideas- really looking forward to reading them. Unfortunately, I'm going to have to take a bit of a back seat for this TAS, due to pending hospital treatment. But I'm hoping to submit something if I can- probably relating to Tolkien's use of dreams in the legendarium.
Welcome to TAS and the RR, Ninrandir, Greater Smials and Ida
Is there a Tolkien topic that you have wanted to look into more deeply and write about your thoughts on it? If so, we'd like to hear from you for the next TORn Amateur Symposium- coming in November. Happy writing!
|
|
|
elaen32
Gondor
Sep 25 2013, 8:50pm
Post #27 of 61
(444 views)
Shortcut
|
|
Sorry to hear you can't contribute this time Lothwen
[In reply to]
|
Can't Post
|
|
but perfectly understandable- exams have to come first, unfortunately
Good luck with the exams!
Is there a Tolkien topic that you have wanted to look into more deeply and write about your thoughts on it? If so, we'd like to hear from you for the next TORn Amateur Symposium- coming in November. Happy writing!
|
|
|
Bow&Helm
The Shire
Sep 26 2013, 8:42pm
Post #29 of 61
(422 views)
Shortcut
|
|
Húrin's Endurance: Applicability for the Addict
[In reply to]
|
Can't Post
|
|
Friends, I'd like your opinion. First I must admit I am both inspired and intimidated by your most excellent symposium topics. I was thinking of writing from a more personal experience and how Húrin's story became a source of inspiration in my life. Not academic by any means. Do you all think it a worthy endeavor?
|
|
|
malickfan
Gondor
Sep 26 2013, 8:52pm
Post #30 of 61
(417 views)
Shortcut
|
|
Could (or should) I re submit my essay On Cirdan?
[In reply to]
|
Can't Post
|
|
Now even longer!
...of course that runs the risk of boring virtually everyone on the site...
What do you think? Could his history appearance and role as a tertiary character be used as a in depth model for a discussion on archetype Elves and Aging in Middle Earth?
I didn't have much progress on the purse essay I got as far as 'He's awesome because he is'...there isn't exactly much to base an essay on.
Though I did have a controversial thought that the purse was more in Tolkien's spirirt than Tauriel...he he (though that would probably turn into more of a rant than an essay).
I don't have much to say.
|
|
|
CuriousG
Half-elven
Sep 26 2013, 9:06pm
Post #31 of 61
(415 views)
Shortcut
|
Who was the Talking Purse? Was it really Tom Bombadil? Was it Eru, who's offended by theft, or Mandos, who knew it was Bilbo's fate to be an inept burglar? Did the squeaky voice come from the cats of Queen Beruthiel trapped inside? Or was it a Balrog trapped in a purse so it couldn't fly away?
Who taught the purse to speak? Didn't Elves teach the Ents to speak, so they did the same for clothing accessories? I mean, they made magic rings, so couldn't they make magic purses too?
There's lots of fodder in the purse for solving the riddles of MEarth. Go, man, go!
|
|
|
malickfan
Gondor
Sep 26 2013, 9:14pm
Post #32 of 61
(407 views)
Shortcut
|
But I'm not going to lie, I'm no Tolkien Scholar or seasoned essay writer...so at best it would be a humorous (and longwinded knowing me) checklist of the possible candiates...then again there are no rules saying the essay has to make sense or be entertaining...are there?
I do however maintain It's rather odd the purse is the only catalyst in Bilbo's journey that remained entirely unchanged from conception to it's final appearance in the adult 1960 Hobbit...
I don't have much to say.
|
|
|
elaen32
Gondor
Sep 26 2013, 9:17pm
Post #33 of 61
(412 views)
Shortcut
|
It doesn't have to be pure academia and can relate to Tolkien's themes within our own lives. Sounds interesting!
Is there a Tolkien topic that you have wanted to look into more deeply and write about your thoughts on it? If so, we'd like to hear from you for the next TORn Amateur Symposium- coming in November. Happy writing!
|
|
|
DanielLB
Immortal
Sep 26 2013, 9:31pm
Post #34 of 61
(406 views)
Shortcut
|
If you think you could edit it down, maybe you could submit two (three/four?) 2000-3000 word essays, over two, three or four symposiums. It might be nice to have something that is "to be continued", like DwellerInDale's physics essays. Just an idea. I think it's worth submitting in some form.
What about an A0 poster? That'll be a challenge for you. 
And by all means, write with humour! I'd love to read a purse essay. Perhaps explore why a male Troll had a purse, rather than a wallet.
(This post was edited by DanielLB on Sep 26 2013, 9:33pm)
|
|
|
malickfan
Gondor
Sep 26 2013, 9:34pm
Post #35 of 61
(404 views)
Shortcut
|
|
Well at the last count it was nearing 23,000 words...
[In reply to]
|
Can't Post
|
|
Not including page references, or 'why the heck are you still reading this, go have a nap' warnings every five pages...
But yeah I could re edit it into different essays.
And I think I will have a go at the purse essay...before you do
I don't have much to say.
|
|
|
Brethil
Half-elven
Sep 26 2013, 9:42pm
Post #36 of 61
(407 views)
Shortcut
|
|
Installment idea: interesting!
[In reply to]
|
Can't Post
|
|
(But so are dueling Talking Purse essays.)
Considering size, that installment idea may be the best format Malickfan. Plus it would allow us to discuss your piece in more detail.
Is there a Tolkien topic that you have wanted to look into more deeply, and write about your thoughts on it? If so, we'd like to hear from you for the next TORn Amateur Symposium- coming in November. Happy writing!
|
|
|
sador
Half-elven
Sep 27 2013, 6:40am
Post #37 of 61
(396 views)
Shortcut
|
If I may presume to offer advice, don't bring examples from all over the legendarium, but focus on a few chapters. That way it would be easier to come up with anything meaningful.
Your intent to look at the impact on the audience is also very promising; I'm looking forward to reading your essay.
|
|
|
demnation
Rohan
Sep 28 2013, 3:04am
Post #38 of 61
(366 views)
Shortcut
|
A) How I dearly wish I had the time to compose an essay and B) How excited I am to read all of yours. Great to see so many lined up already!
"In the beginning the Universe was created.This has made a lot of people very angry and been widely regarded as a bad move.” Douglas Adams, The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy
(This post was edited by demnation on Sep 28 2013, 3:06am)
|
|
|
Dame Ioreth
Tol Eressea
Sep 28 2013, 4:07pm
Post #40 of 61
(354 views)
Shortcut
|
|
I have something bumping around in my brain...
[In reply to]
|
Can't Post
|
|
...that I'd like to contribute. It has to do with Bilbo writing the "All that is gold" poem from his POV. It's less scholarly and more about character development across the two books. I've always been fascinated by Bilbo, the only being in Middle Earth to willingly give up the Ring. His unexpected life-journey-adventrue makes me want to read more of his autobiography.
Can you tell I've completely bought into Mr. Tolkien's world? I think I would be a hobbit who went on adventures....
“Where there's life there's hope, and need of vittles.”
― J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings
|
|
|
Brethil
Half-elven
Sep 28 2013, 4:09pm
Post #41 of 61
(348 views)
Shortcut
|
That sounds wonderful Ioreth. Intriguing topic! Can't wait to read it. 
Is there a Tolkien topic that you have wanted to look into more deeply, and write about your thoughts on it? If so, we'd like to hear from you for the next TORn Amateur Symposium- coming in November. Happy writing!
|
|
|
swordwhale
Tol Eressea
Sep 29 2013, 4:22am
Post #42 of 61
(346 views)
Shortcut
|
I like that idea! I'm an artist, and somewhat musically impaired, so it would be cool to see a musician's interpretation of what I think is a marvelous set of soundtracks.
Go outside and play...
|
|
|
Na Vedui
Rohan
Sep 29 2013, 4:47pm
Post #43 of 61
(333 views)
Shortcut
|
I hope all goes well with the hospital treatment.
|
|
|
elaen32
Gondor
Sep 29 2013, 6:41pm
Post #44 of 61
(332 views)
Shortcut
|
I hope to be back on the boards soon
Is there a Tolkien topic that you have wanted to look into more deeply and write about your thoughts on it? If so, we'd like to hear from you for the next TORn Amateur Symposium- coming in November. Happy writing!
|
|
|
Brethil
Half-elven
Sep 30 2013, 12:09am
Post #45 of 61
(316 views)
Shortcut
|
WE hope so too Fearless TAS leader! //
[In reply to]
|
Can't Post
|
|
Is there a Tolkien topic that you have wanted to look into more deeply, and write about your thoughts on it? If so, we'd like to hear from you for the next TORn Amateur Symposium- coming in November. Happy writing!
|
|
|
noWizardme
Half-elven
Oct 3 2013, 3:49pm
Post #46 of 61
(295 views)
Shortcut
|
|
Perhaps "The men of Gondor will never submit"- but I just did (my essay I mean ) //
[In reply to]
|
Can't Post
|
|
Disclaimers: The words of noWizardme may stand on their heads! I'm often wrong about things, and its fun to be taught more....
"nowimë I am in the West, Furincurunir to the Dwarves (or at least, to their best friend) and by other names in other lands. Mostly they just say 'Oh no it's him - look busy!' "
Or "Hold off! unhand me, grey-beard loon!"
|
|
|
Brethil
Half-elven
Oct 3 2013, 4:29pm
Post #47 of 61
(299 views)
Shortcut
|
|
Yes, happily the Men of Gondor have submitted...
[In reply to]
|
Can't Post
|
|
hmmm. That statement can give one mixed feelings about being happy!
Is there a Tolkien topic that you have wanted to look into more deeply, and write about your thoughts on it? If so, we'd like to hear from you for the next TORn Amateur Symposium- coming in November. Happy writing!
|
|
|
Maciliel
Valinor
Oct 4 2013, 3:38pm
Post #48 of 61
(280 views)
Shortcut
|
...submit this...
an essay on female heroes of middle earth.
.
aka. fili orc-enshield
+++++++++++++++++++
the scene, as i understand it, is exceptionally well-written. fili (in sort of a callback to the scene with the eagles), calls out "thorRIIIIIIN!!!" just as he sees the pale orc veer in for the kill. he picks up the severed arm of an orc which is lying on the ground, swings it up in desperation, effectively blocking the pale orc's blow. and thus, forever after, fili is known as "fili orc-enshield."
this earns him deep respect from his hard-to-please uncle. as well as a hug. kili wipes his boots on the pale orc's glory box. -- maciliel telpemairo
|
|
|
Brethil
Half-elven
Oct 4 2013, 4:33pm
Post #49 of 61
(280 views)
Shortcut
|
And I know you will do it fine justice! Great to hear from you Telpemairo!
Is there a Tolkien topic that you have wanted to look into more deeply, and write about your thoughts on it? If so, we'd like to hear from you for the next TORn Amateur Symposium- coming in November. Happy writing!
|
|
|
elaen32
Gondor
Oct 6 2013, 10:48am
Post #50 of 61
(271 views)
Shortcut
|
|
Great to read so many interesting titles and ideas!
[In reply to]
|
Can't Post
|
|
I'm still hoping to write on the use of dreams as a device to progress the narrative. I'm hopefully leaving hospital tomorrow, so can get down to recovering with the aid of TORn and TAS
Is there a Tolkien topic that you have wanted to look into more deeply and write about your thoughts on it? If so, we'd like to hear from you for the next TORn Amateur Symposium- coming in November. Happy writing!
|
|
|
Brethil
Half-elven
Oct 6 2013, 2:13pm
Post #51 of 61
(364 views)
Shortcut
|
|
We all send you healing wishes!!!!! //
[In reply to]
|
Can't Post
|
|
Is there a Tolkien topic that you have wanted to look into more deeply, and write about your thoughts on it? If so, we'd like to hear from you for the next TORn Amateur Symposium- coming in November. Happy writing!
|
|
|
TORn Amateur Symposium
Bree
Oct 6 2013, 3:34pm
Post #52 of 61
(349 views)
Shortcut
|
Sunday 6th October - First reminder thread
[In reply to]
|
Can't Post
|
|
Since the introductory thread/call for submissions thread is still on page 1, we've decided not to make a second thread quite yet.
Instead, please take this post as the "first reminder thread" for TAS2, happening this November.
We have had a stunning amount of interest in the second TORn Amateur Symposium, but you still have a month to express interest in writing for us. Thank you to everyone that has already expressed interest, and we hope your essays are coming along nicely. Please see the original post for all the details.
If you have any queries, questions or suggestions, please do not hesitate to ask. Simply ask in this thread, PM the TAS TORn account, email us at tornamateursymposium@gmail.com, or contact Brethil or DanielLB.
The second, and final, reminder thread will be posted on Sunday 20th October. By this time, we would like to confirm with you your proposed topic and possible title (via PM). These will all be included in this thread. Submission doesn't close until Sunday 03rd November so you still have plenty of time.
Thank you to everyone. And happy scribbling!
|
|
|
Vardamir
Registered User
Oct 8 2013, 9:21pm
Post #53 of 61
(351 views)
Shortcut
|
|
TORn Amateur Symposium Essay Topic
[In reply to]
|
Can't Post
|
|
I'm planning to write an essay about the Gollum/Smeagol character in LotR:
Is he evil?
Is he a victim?
Or something in between?
Any Thoughts
|
|
|
DanielLB
Immortal
Oct 9 2013, 6:27am
Post #54 of 61
(331 views)
Shortcut
|
And welcome to TORn Vardamir.
That sounds like a great essay topic, and I look forward to reading it. Gollum always was a rather special character - Smeagol vs. Gollum and his internal conflicts. It will be interesting to see what you come up with.
Thank you for writing for TAS!
|
|
|
MilleniumRoger
Registered User
Oct 10 2013, 4:05am
Post #55 of 61
(316 views)
Shortcut
|
Hey! I've been lurking for a while but this got me out of my hole! I want to write something about the idea of victory in the Tolkien cannon. Hope that's okay!
|
|
|
DanielLB
Immortal
Oct 10 2013, 6:41am
Post #56 of 61
(334 views)
Shortcut
|
Nice to meet you MilleniumRoger, and welcome to TORn. That sounds like a fascinating topic for TAS - any idea what you might cover? Thank you for writing for TAS.
|
|
|
Ida
The Shire
Oct 14 2013, 6:05pm
Post #57 of 61
(309 views)
Shortcut
|
Well, I think I will definitely have to re-think my essay on the soundtracks, as there's just tons and tons of material and things to say about it! There's basically two ways to go about it: Either I include Elves, Dwarves, Men and Hobbits, and then it'll be very short passages on each of them and a kind of basic "spot-the-difference", or, I split the essay in two, and tackle two races in each, allowing me to also include the differences in the individual races (like Rivendell and Lothlorien Elves). Any comments on what people would most like to see?
|
|
|
DanielLB
Immortal
Oct 14 2013, 7:01pm
Post #58 of 61
(300 views)
Shortcut
|
|
Both have there advantages. :-)
[In reply to]
|
Can't Post
|
|
I know how you feel - my first TAS essay had to be completely re-written, after finding one quote from Tolkien. Luckily, there's still plenty of time to go.
An overview paper might be nice, and it might be easier for people to read, follow and comment. However an essay split in two (so you either had a Part 1 and Part 2 essay both in TAS2, or split across TAS2 and TAS3) might also be good - that way you *can* go into the details you like. Especially if you think your topic will be done more justice splitting it.
Personally, I quite like essays that are split up into easy-to-read chunks over several symposiums, so that there is a continual theme and the ideas and opinions are continually developed and built upon. Kind of like a real-life scientific journal. That's just me though. It is entirely up to you, but we will happily accept two essays.
Depending on the number of submissions, we may actually have to split TAS2 in half itself (before and after The Hobbit). But more of that when we know how many people have actually written essays.
(I probably haven't helped in your decision making in the slightest. )
|
|
|
Ida
The Shire
Oct 14 2013, 7:06pm
Post #59 of 61
(302 views)
Shortcut
|
But it's always nice to hear what other people think.
Unfortunately I won't have time to make two in-depth essays this time around (because of Uni work), but I might just do a "simple" overview for this one, and then leave it open for further discussion/writing?
|
|
|
Ida
The Shire
Oct 14 2013, 7:16pm
Post #61 of 61
(377 views)
Shortcut
|
I think I'll for for the "overview" essay, as I do find it quite interesting how Shore has made sure every race is immediately distinguishable :) I'm halfway thorough it anyway, so might as well carry on ;)
|
|
|
|
|
