However, I have to often stop myself from doing two things:
a) Wishing that the Elves were depicted like JRRT described them. (Specifically I have problems with descriptions of Elves/Faieries as other than the regal, just people)
b) Screaming - YOU TOLKIEN RIP-OFF!! YOU! YOU! YOU!!
Usually, I am able to control the delve deeper into the former, and control the latter. But today, on a used-book sale I picked up an epic fantasy book "The Wishsong of Shannara" by Terry Brooks. And if this isn't a Tolkien rip-off, then I don't know what is. I have read only the first chapter, but already there are the following
- Elven magic (thats fine, expected)
Elfstones
Mord Wraiths or "black walkers" (huh?)
Allanon - a Druid, who is tall, old and whose presence usually signifies great trouble in the lands. He brought the races together in the age of "Man" and of course, travels everywhere.
A man who has a sword, the "Sword of Leah", once carried by the heir to the kingdom of Leah (but now has no significance - yes, Terry Brooks, I can see the effort to be different here!!)
Who else has these issues? Found any Tolkien rip-offs?