J. R. R. Tolkien: 'I don't like allegories.'

I don't like allegories.

J.R.R. Tolkien, the celebrated author of "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy, once stated, "I don't like allegories." This seemingly simple quote holds great significance, as it sheds light on Tolkien's approach to storytelling and his philosophy on the use of allegory in literature. By summarizing the meaning of this quote straightforwardly, we can delve into an unexpected philosophical concept that will enhance the discussion.Tolkien's remark suggests his aversion to using allegory in his works. Allegories are stories that have a hidden or symbolic meaning, often representing moral or political ideas. While many authors throughout history have employed allegory as a means of conveying complex messages, Tolkien had a different perspective. Instead of crafting tales filled with transparent symbolism, he believed in the power of creating secondary worlds that were immersive and independent of the reader's world.Tolkien's disdain for allegories stems from his belief that stories should be autonomous and open to interpretation. By introducing a philosophical concept, we can further explore this notion. Let's consider the idea of "plurality of meaning" - the belief that a work of art can contain multiple interpretations, each equally valid. This philosophical concept aligns with Tolkien's approach, as he aimed to construct narratives that invited readers to speculate, reflect, and find personal meaning within them.While allegories tend to restrict interpretations by anchoring themselves to specific ideas or events, Tolkien's rejection of them allowed his readers to engage with his stories at a deeper level. By creating intricate worlds and compelling characters, he cultivated a space for individual experiences that went far beyond what a simple allegory could achieve. This approach empowered readers to find personal connections, ethical dilemmas, and emotional resonances within the pages of his novels.Furthermore, Tolkien's distaste for allegory reflects his belief in the power of imagination. He recognized that the most profound connections are often made when readers immerse themselves into a story and let their imagination take flight. By avoiding the constraints of allegory, Tolkien liberated his creativity and enabled readers to embark on their own imaginative journeys. They could explore the landscapes of Middle-earth, befriend hobbits and wizards, and witness epic battles that resonated with their own emotions and experiences.In contrast, allegories inherently limit the scope of a reader's imagination, as they lead the audience down a predetermined path towards a specific message or moral lesson. While this can be valuable in some cases, Tolkien desired to create a more expansive literary experience, one that allowed readers to engage in a dialogue with the text and find their own unique meanings.Tolkien's rejection of allegories, combined with the concept of a plurality of meaning, highlights the depth and richness of his storytelling. He sought to open doors rather than close them, inviting readers to explore the vast realms of his imagination and find their own truths within his narratives. His insistence on the autonomy of his created worlds cultivated a sense of wonder and discovery that continues to captivate audiences to this day.In conclusion, J.R.R. Tolkien's declaration, "I don't like allegories," embodies his approach to storytelling and his philosophy on the power of imagination. By rejecting allegories, he created space for readers to immerse themselves in his secondary worlds and find multiple meanings within his tales. This commitment to plurality of meaning enabled an enriched reading experience, one that transcended simple moral lessons and embraced the limitless possibilities of the human imagination. Tolkien's literary legacy serves as a testament to the profound impact of autonomous storytelling and the unbounded potential of the human mind.