Tolkienists.org

№ 182: Deniz Bevan

2 November 2021 | Tolkien Experience ProjectDeniz Bevan

My parents had a paperback copy of The Lord of the Rings. Now that I think about it, I seem to remember reading The Hobbit first, but I can’t remember if they had a copy or if I found it in the school library. I was 11, and have been rereading The Lord of the Rings at least once a year since then (over 30 years)! …


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This is one in a series of posts where the content is provided by a guest who has graciously answered five questions about their experience as a Tolkien fan.

To see the idea behind this project, or if you are interested in sharing your own, visit the project homepage. If you enjoy this series, please consider helping us fund the project using the support page.

I want to thank Donato Giancola for allowing me to use his artwork for this project. Prints are available on his website!

Now, on to Deniz Bevan’s responses:


1. How were you introduced to Tolkien’s work?

My parents had a paperback copy of The Lord of the Rings. Now that I think about it, I seem to remember reading The Hobbit first, but I can’t remember if they had a copy or if I found it in the school library. I was 11, and have been rereading The Lord of the Rings at least once a year since then (over 30 years)!

2. What is your favorite part of Tolkien’s work?

That’s very difficult to choose. I love the poetry, the humour, the grand sweep, and the small moments.

3. What is your fondest experience of Tolkien’s work?

So many things! Being so moved by the poems that I had to read them aloud (lucky I was alone at a train station at the time!). Discovering the History of Middle-Earth books as a teenager and being excited by how much there was to read! Finally getting to go to my first Tolkien Society event (Tolkien 2019). Reading Mr Bliss to my young daughter for the first time…

4. Has the way you approach Tolkien’s work changed over time?

I don’t think so. I’m still just as affected by the stories, in a good way. But it’s lovely to be more involved with the Tolkien Society than I was when I was younger.

5. Would you ever recommend Tolkien’s work? Why/​Why not?

Definitely! I have a few friends who think his writing is description-heavy, and I’m always trying to explain both that it’s not and that even if it is, it’s all wonderful! I also go on quite a bit about the worldbuilding, and how well all the history, language, and stories come together. One of my favourite subjects!


You can read more from Deniz Bevan on their blog!

[Full text is provided here in the event that the original blog post is no longer available. If possible, please read the original post at Tolkien Experience Project – Luke Shelton PhD.]

Authoritative information may be found here.

permalink 🔗︁ https://sam.tolkienists.org/00p6/
source URL 🌐Deniz Bevan’s Experience — Tolkien Experience Project (182) – Luke Shelton PhD
date recorded 📅2021-11-08
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