The Book of Lost Tales Part Two
"The Book of Lost Tales Part Two" by J.R.R. Tolkien continues the mythological journey begun in the first volume, delving deeper into the early legends that would form the heart of the First Age of Middle-earth. Through the framing narrative of Eriol the mariner, readers encounter the earliest versions of foundational tales such as the story of Beren and Lúthien, the tragic fall of Gondolin, the wanderings of Eärendel, and the shaping of the Sun and Moon. These stories are filled with heroic deeds, deep sorrow, and a sense of ancient wonder, all conveyed in Tolkien’s richly poetic language and presented with the raw creativity of a world still in the making.
What makes "The Book of Lost Tales Part Two" particularly fascinating is how it reveals Tolkien's evolving vision. The names, character motivations, and even cosmology differ significantly from later versions, allowing readers to witness the living, changing mythology in its formative stages. The tale of Beren and Lúthien, for instance, includes details not found in later retellings, while the Fall of Gondolin remains one of the most vivid and complete early narratives Tolkien ever wrote. Christopher Tolkien’s commentary provides invaluable context, guiding readers through the complexities of these drafts and the shifts in his father’s thought over time.
This book is a must-read for fans of Tolkien who want to explore the deeper layers of his myth-making, but it also offers much to readers outside the fantasy genre. Those interested in folklore, storytelling traditions, and the creative process behind legendary fiction will find it a rewarding experience. "The Book of Lost Tales Part Two" is not only an essential piece of Tolkien’s literary legacy but also a window into the imagination of one of the most influential writers of the twentieth century.