Welcome to the SWG Reference Library!

The Reference section of our site is under constant development as we strive to provide a valuable resource for writers seeking answers to canon questions, advice and instruction on writing, and additional online groups to network with other writers and Tolkien fans. We are always open to suggestions and corrections in the event of misinformation.

While one of our goals is to provide a resource for information on canon, this site is not a substitute for Tolkien's original works, and any secondary source claiming to provide accurate canon information necessarily involves a degree of interpretation by its writer. We are taking care to provide exhaustive references on all of our work. Please use this site only as a starting point and guide and always check the original source material.

This section is slowly being built. Please pardon our dust and check back frequently for updates and changes!

Reference Sections

Commentary

Please note that the opinions expressed in the essays in this section do not necessarily represent those of SWG, its moderators, or its members.

The Tolkienian War on Science by Dr. Joan Bushwell. Biochemist and long-time Tolkien fan, Doc Bushwell argues that the events and ideas expressed in Tolkien's works often express a strong disdain for science and technology.

Critiquing and Reviewing Fiction

How to Review by Juno Magic. This comprehensive essay discusses how to write balanced and effective fiction critiques with a special emphasis on Tolkien fan fiction.

Fandom and Online Life

The Perfect Girl by Nikara. An analysis of the fan fiction phenomenon of "Mary Sue" and readers' reactions to this controversial fanfic archetype.

The World of Arda

Silmarillion Chapter Summaries by Dawn Felagund. Designed as a resource for leading readings of The Silmarillion, the chapter summaries are also a nice review for those returning to unfamiliar sections of the book or who would like guidance while reading it for the first time.

Additional Resources

Submitting Your Work to the Reference Library. We are always seeking outstanding essays and resources on Tolkien's canon, writing, and whatever else might be helpful to our members! If you would like to submit something to our Reference Library, here is the place to start.

Becoming a Reference Reader. Reference readers help us to check facts and details in the essays that we wish to include in our Reference Library. If you are interested in learning more about Tolkien's canon and helping out with SWG in a low-pressure environment, signing on as a reference reader might be the perfect job for you!