Is that is based on you having researched the question of whether Tolkien was at all influenced by oriental languages and writing and concluding that he was not? Or is it based on your general opinion that nothing that Tolkien did or said meant anything not obvious on its face?Alatar wrote:I'm sure it won't surprise anyone that I would opt for the "complete coincidence" option.
In truth, Tolkien loved and was long fascinated by calligraphy, and it is perfectly natural to assume that he was familiar with oriental writing, probably the most advanced form of calligraphy in the world (although I have no evidence of this at this time). Perhaps one of our more knowledgable linguists will show up and express an opinion.