# Reading Aloud *The Lord of the Rings*: A Journey Worth Undertaking
It may be challenging, but you truly can sing in Elvish if you give it a go!
Reading *The Lord of the Rings* (LotR) aloud goes beyond mere literary practice—it’s a captivating experience that can strengthen the bonds among family and friends. Similar to Frodo’s grand adventure, reading Tolkien’s landmark work aloud is a journey that necessitates patience, commitment, and a readiness to tackle the obstacles that arise. Yet, as I found out during my second read-aloud of the series, the benefits far outweigh the challenges.
## The Adventure Commences
Five years back, I shared *The Lord of the Rings* with my oldest daughter. This year, I accepted the challenge once more, this time for my wife and two younger kids. We dedicated a full year to this, reading 20–45 minutes at bedtime whenever we could find the time, journeying across Middle-earth alongside Frodo, Sam, Aragorn, and the rest of the Fellowship. There were times when the leisurely pace of the Ents or the dispersed Fellowship in *The Two Towers* almost derailed our progress, but we persevered, even when modern distractions like tablet games and TV shows called out to us.
The outcome? An experiences shared among us that left a profound impact. The pivotal scenes—Gollum’s final moment at Mount Doom, the fall of Sauron, and Frodo’s journey to the Grey Havens—struck as hard as ever, even for those encountering the tale for the first time.
## The Impact of Reading Aloud
Reading aloud offers a distinct experience compared to silent reading. It compels both the reader and listeners to engage with the narrative at the rhythm of the spoken word rather than the speed of the eye. This more measured, intentional pace facilitates a deeper immersion into the realm of Middle-earth and enhances appreciation for Tolkien’s language.
Furthermore, reading aloud establishes a ritual—a shared activity that unites the listeners. It’s a tradition as ancient as humanity itself, reminiscent of times when tales were shared orally by the fire. Thus, reading *The Lord of the Rings* aloud transcends a mere literary activity; it morphs into a communal experience, a means to connect with others through the art of storytelling.
## The Challenge of Verse and Melody
One of the most remarkable aspects of *The Lord of the Rings* is the extensive inclusion of poetry and song throughout the story. From the hobbits’ jubilant road songs to the somber dirges of the dwarves, from the Elves’ celestial melodies to Gandalf’s unforeseen tribute to Galadriel, music and verse are woven deeply into Tolkien’s universe.
However, this presents a dilemma for the reader: Should you recite the poetry aloud? Should you sing the songs? And if so, in what manner?
### Singing in Elvish: A Courageous Decision
I chose to recite every poem and sing every song, even those in Elvish. This was not always straightforward, and my impromptu tunes often missed the mark. Yet the effort paid off. My children, who might have otherwise zoned out during the lengthy, complex sections, became animated with joy whenever a song approached. There’s something intrinsically captivating about witnessing a parent endeavor to sing lines in a language they don’t fully grasp.
Singing the melodies also infused an additional layer of richness to the experience. It rendered the world of Middle-earth more vibrant and alive. After all, in Tolkien’s universe, music transcends mere entertainment—it serves as a conduit to connect with the universe’s deeper truths. By performing the songs, we were engaging in that connection, albeit in a modest way.
### The Significance of Poetry
Tolkien’s affinity for poetry resonates throughout *The Lord of the Rings*. Almost every race and lineage in Middle-earth boasts its unique poetic heritage, from the alliterative verses of the Rohirrim to the lyrical ballads of the Elves. Even the hobbits, with their pragmatic outlook, possess their own songs and rhymes.
Reciting the poetry aloud compels one to acknowledge its significance. One cannot simply rush through it as one might in silent reading. Instead, engagement is necessary, lending it voice. This can be daunting, especially when confronted with lengthy, intricate passages such as the three-page epic of Eärendil the mariner. However, it is a challenge worth embracing, for the poetry enriches Tolkien’s world-building. It adds depth and nuance to the cultures of Middle-earth, alluding to their extensive histories.
