[little jeremiah]

The writer of this article is, as far as I am concerned (AFAIAC?), an idiot. Here is proof:

"As an imaginative (as opposed to didactic or allegorical) exercise, a good fairy story has no point, no moral."

I grew up on fairy stories, read more than practically any other kids my age, read Tolkien's books numerous times starting in the early 60's (even learned runes). He is wrong. Tolkien's stories, as well as many others of that type, do have morals or values to be learned. How about these: loyalty, determination, selfless love and service, having faith even when things look hopeless, having faith there is a meaning and purpose behind events, charity and mercy, using authority and power with justice and honor, etc etc. I could go on and on.

Note that the author is a "fine art photographer".

[saradippity]

Great comments. I would only substitute the word virtues where you used values.

One of my favorite lines occured when Sam said to Froto:"I can't carry your burden but I can carry you." I also liked the scene where Gandolf explains that life here is not the end.

[bobo1]

Right on!

Read Tolkien's books, and found them to be very upright and moral. Good post.

Blessings, Bobo