But the problem with the metaphorical modes of fiction, Science Fiction, Fantasy, ‘magic realism’ and the like, is almost that they are too deep. (Pierre Delalande) I do not intend, in this chapter, to try and generate an itinerary of every author who has been influenced by Tolkien or written a sub-Tolkien Fantasy novel: this book does not have the space to encompass such a survey. Indeed, a lifetime is too short (and eternity barely long enough) for such a task, for post-Tolkien fantasy has proved astonishingly fertile, and most of its texts are very lengthy. Nor do I intend here to attempt a discussion of the various sub-genres post-Tolkienian fantasy is sometimes divided into by fans: Heroic Fantasy, Sword and Sorcery, Gritty Fantasy, Urban Fantasy, Weird fiction and the like. Some fans, and some critics too, spend a great deal of time upon such taxonomies. But it seems to me that taxonomy itself is a poor way of apprehending what it is about Fantasy that has made it so successful.
What do You think about The Riddles Of The Hobbit?
