The Letters of J.R.R Tolkien: Letter 10

Summary

Date: January 17, 1937

To: C. A. Furth, Allen & Unwin

Background: Tolkien wrote and illustrated a children’s book, Mr Bliss, which was shown to Allen & Unwin at the same time that The Hobbit was submitted. Tolkien was told that they would be glad to accept Mr Bliss if he reduced the number of colours in the drawings, making it easier to produce.

Summary: Tolkien is appreciative that the story was accepted and says that he will try to make his illustrations easier to produce. He notes that he is busy, but that he may have “odd moments in the near future.” He also comments on some of the placements of illustrations, maps, and charts for The Hobbit.

Reflection