Understanding the Legendarium in the Way of Arda's Lore

In the Way of Arda's Lore (WAL), the term "canon" is consciously avoided when referring to J.R.R. Tolkien's works. This choice arises from the complexities and ambiguities surrounding the word "canon," which suggests a fixed set of authoritative works chosen by a central authority. In Tolkien’s case, such an approach is problematic for several reasons, making the term "canon" inadequate for describing the evolving and interwoven nature of his Legendarium:

1. Evolving Body of Work: Tolkien's legendarium was a continually evolving project. Throughout his life, he revised key aspects of Middle-earth’s history, mythology, and characters. Like ancient epics such as The Epic of Gilgamesh, which developed over time, Tolkien's works reflect an ongoing creative process rather than a completed, finalized product.
2. Posthumous Editorial Contributions: The posthumous contributions of Christopher Tolkien complicate the notion of a definitive canon. Christopher’s editorial work, including the publication of The Silmarillion and numerous other volumes based on his father’s unfinished manuscripts, involved significant editorial decisions. These decisions, while invaluable in making Tolkien’s vast legendarium accessible, introduced new elements and interpretations that further distance these texts from any singular, "canonical" version of Middle-earth’s history.
3. Complexity and Richness of the Mythos: Tolkien's mythos is vast, consisting of not only The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings but also countless drafts, essays, notes, and letters. These materials form an intricate web of interconnected stories, many of which contain contradictions. Attempting to establish a single, authoritative canon diminishes the richness of Tolkien's world, which thrives on its dynamic and evolving nature. Just as the various versions of The Epic of Gilgamesh resist being confined to a rigid canon, Tolkien’s writings are better understood as part of a living tradition.

Given these factors, applying the term "canon" to Tolkien’s legendarium is no more valid than using it for ancient, evolving epics. Both Tolkien's works and ancient mythologies resist confinement to fixed authoritative texts due to their evolving nature.

To address this complexity, EriolElwin refers to the entire body of work as the "Legendarium data-set." This term acknowledges the technical and scholarly nature of working with such a vast, interconnected corpus of writings. However, a more universally resonant term for WAL’s internal use might be the "Mythological Lattice."

Mythological nodes sustained by the Secret Fire

The term "Mythological Lattice" is particularly apt because it evokes the structured yet flexible nature of Tolkien's works. A lattice is a framework made of intersecting and overlapping elements, much like the interconnected and evolving nature of Tolkien's narratives. This term captures the intricate, layered quality of the legendarium, allowing for a more holistic understanding of his creative vision. The Mythological Lattice invites us to approach Tolkien’s writings in a way that embraces their variations and contradictions without privileging one version over another. It encourages both scholarly and spiritual exploration of Arda, recognizing Tolkien’s legendarium as an evolving, living mythology rather than a static collection of works. This method allows for a richer engagement with Tolkien’s work, honoring the layers of meaning and the dynamic nature of his mythological world.

By adopting the Mythological Lattice, we affirm our commitment to exploring the spiritual and mythological dimensions of Tolkien's work. This approach aligns with the values of Way of Arda's Lore, supporting our collective journey of discovery and reverence for the depth and complexity of Middle-earth.

For discussions outside of WAL, particularly with those unfamiliar with our methods, a more specific qualifier may be necessary. In such cases, the term "Legendarium Mythological Lattice" can clarify our approach for outsiders, ensuring that the flexible and interconnected nature of Tolkien’s work is clearly understood within the broader context of Tolkien studies.

The term "Mythological Lattice" is particularly well-suited for WAL because it emphasizes the flexible, structured, and evolving nature of Tolkien’s writings. A lattice, after all, consists of intersecting elements that provide support while remaining open to different interpretations and new growth. This allows us to focus on the legendarium’s dynamic and interwoven aspects, in contrast to the rigidity implied by the word "canon."

Thus, adopting the Legendarium Mythological Lattice terminology communicates the nuanced and living quality of Tolkien’s mythos. It allows us to approach his work free from the constraints of a rigid canon, promoting a deeper and more expansive understanding of Middle-earth. This method reinforces our dedication to a comprehensive and evolving view of Tolkien's creative vision.