The Prancing Pony Podcast 108 - Ain't Gonna Walk on Maggot's Farm No More
Jan 13, 2019
Tom Hillman, a longtime Tolkien enthusiast and bookstore manager, joins to share his deep appreciation for Middle-earth. He recounts his own journey into fandom and the sense of belonging within the Tolkien community. The discussion dives into the rich themes of hobbit hospitality, illustrated by Farmer Maggot's warm welcome despite initial suspicions. They also tackle questions about Sauron's strategic decisions and analyze the unsettling encounter between Maggot and the Nazgûl. Plus, tips on making mushroom soup might just leave you hungry!
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Discovering Tolkien Through Conan
- Tom Hillman describes first discovering Tolkien after seeing a Conan letter referencing the siege of Gondor and then devouring the books as a teen. He read The Lord of the Rings repeatedly and later preferred its applicability to life and morality.
Conventions Create A Shared Language
- Tom Hillman says conventions like MythMoot let you speak a common language so you don't have to explain references. That shared context creates a sense of tribe and belonging for Tolkien fans.
Early Drafts Included Invisible Pranks
- The hosts read Farmer Maggot's approach in A Shortcut to Mushrooms and recount earlier drafts where Bingo (early Frodo) used the Ring to become invisible and prank Maggot. They prefer Tolkien's final, less frivolous version.
