The Fall of Gondolin audiobook by Christopher Tolkien, J. R. R. Tolkien

In the peaceful tranquility of my own backyard garden, underneath the shade of a towering oak tree, I embarked on an epic journey with “The Fall of Gondolin audiobook” by Christopher Tolkien and J.R.R. Tolkien. The sun’s warm rays filtered through the leaves, creating a serene atmosphere that perfectly complemented the rich tapestry of Middle Earth.

From the very beginning, it was evident why this novel remained unpublished during J.R.R. Tolkien’s lifetime. While Christopher Tolkien’s additions provided valuable context, “The Fall of Gondolin” felt more like a condensed summary than a fully fleshed-out story. Characters lacked development, and pivotal events were rushed through, leaving little room for suspense or emotional investment. However, it was the grandeur of Tolkien’s narrative that ultimately saved the book from fading into oblivion. His words were eloquent and captivating, especially when brought to life by the talented Samuel West.

Despite its shortcomings, “The Fall of Gondolin” offered a glimpse into the intricate world-building of Middle Earth. Tolkien enthusiasts will appreciate the additional layers of depth added to the lore of the Elder Days and the End of Days. This audiobook is not for those seeking a linear, straightforward narrative. Christopher Tolkien retells the tale of Tuor multiple times, from different perspectives and at various stages of his father’s life. While this repetition may be a bit redundant, fans of “The Silmarillion” will find hidden gems scattered throughout, shedding light on the complex backstory of Tolkien’s masterpieces.

Christopher Tolkien’s dedication to his father’s work is evident in his careful curation of fragments and stories. The alternating roles of narrator and editor’s voice are beautifully portrayed by the two readers, adding an immersive and engaging element to the experience. These editions serve as a testament to Christopher’s lifelong devotion to these tales, which became his life’s work until his passing.

It is important to note that “The Fall of Gondolin” is not a continuous novel but rather a compilation of shorter and longer fragments woven together by Christopher with meticulous care. While this may pose a challenge for some listeners, it is akin to a musical composition with variations on a theme. The enduring power of J.R.R. Tolkien’s imagination continues to resonate, offering profound insights into our troubled world.

A word of caution: approximately two-thirds of this edition is dedicated to the writing process and explanations behind the story. For die-hard fans of Tolkien’s work, this in-depth exploration will be a delight. However, for those seeking a straightforward narrative, it may detract from the overall enjoyment. The true gem lies in the first chapter, “The Fall of Gondolin” itself, a beautifully written and narrated tale that deserves attention. It is in this chapter that one can sense the prototype for the iconic Siege of Minas Tirith in “The Return of the King.”