New Challenge: Title Track
Tolkien's titles range from epic to lyrical to metaphorical. This month's challenge selected 125 of them as prompts for fanworks.
SWG News
Our Annual Amnesty Challenge: New Year's Resolution
Start 2026 off with creativity! If you missed a challenge or didn't get to finish or post a challenge fanwork, complete any 2025 challenge before 15 February to receive the stamp.
"The Fëanorian Zine" Available to Read and Download
We are pleased to be able to offer "The Fëanorian Zine" to read and download on the SWG for free.
Call for Artists for the 2026 Challenge Stamps
We are soliciting help from artists who want to help create the stamps we award to challenge participants.
New & Updated Fanworks
[Writing] One Flesh, One Soul. Part I by FellFireFan
As beautiful as he is dangerous, Aegnor, an elven prince, stands against the looming shadows of Angband. Brother to Galadriel, he commands the siege with a fierce intensity, a duty that exacts a heavy toll on him. Beneath the iron walls he has built lies a broken soul, haunted by a devastating…
[Series] Instadrabbling, 2026-Present by SWG Moderators
We get together from time to time on the SWG Discord and produce spontaneous fanworks based on randomly chosen prompts. This collection includes drabbles, ficlets, and other flash fanworks produced as part of our instadrabbling sessions beginning in 2026.
[Writing] A meeting at the Trees by ethanray
Nerdanel goes to the Two Trees after Fëanor is banished and meets Indis there
For March 2026 Instadrabbling
[Writing] Grief is not the only geography I know by Himring
Indis explains how she took to wandering around Valinor.
[Writing] The Tale of Tar-Ciryatan's Daughter by Kaylee Arafinwiel
Ailinel, orphan of Numenor, is one of the poor girls dowered by Tar-Ciryatan and titled a "King's Daughter", encouraged to sail East to his colonies and find herself a husband.
It doesn't take her that long.
But even after she and Shipman Gaerondur find love, life in the colony isn…
[Writing] In Early Spring by Serinquanion
In what Maedhros was re-embodied early and was sent back to Middle Earth on his volition with Glorfindel.
This isn't about what happened right then but years after Fall of Sauron when he still refused to return to Valinor.
He found a strange sapling at the shore of what remains of…
[Writing] Umnenyalië by Serinquanion
He was going to die. The molten rocks would burn him just like the cursed gem in his palm did. Maybe less painfully but still being burnt hurt and Maedhros knew it. He intimately knew it from his time in Angband where Þauron burnt him often in frustration and to toy with him and his master…
Current Challenge
Title Track
Create a fanwork using our collection of 125 titles from Tolkien's books, chapters, essays, poems, and fragments as inspiration. Read more ...
Random Challenge
Roaring Twenties
Use bingo prompts from 1920s-themed cards to create a fanwork. Read more ...
New in References
Tolkien, Lunatic Physicists, and Abnegation by Cynthia (Cindy) Gates
This presentation for Mereth Aderthad 2025 discusses the parallels between the concept of abnegation in the scientific work surrounding the atomic bomb and in The Silmarillion. The relinquishment of self-interest in favor of the interests of others, abnegation was identified by Tolkien as a powerful act of spirit and reason. The legendarium has many examples of the complexities of abnegation, which parallel similar discussions held by physicists during and after World War II.
Twilight, Child Of: Comparisons Between Tinúviel, Lómion, and Undómiel by JazTheBard
This presentation for Mereth Aderthad 2025 discusses the many similarities between Tolkien's three "twilight children," Tinúviel, Lómion, and Undómiel (Luthien, Maeglin, and Arwen) in terms of appearance, plot, and cultural background. Yet these three characters play very different roles in the text.
The Aromantic in Tolkien by daughterofshadows
Presented at Mereth Aderthad 2025, this paper makes the case thata, although the term "aromantic" had not yet been coined in Tolkien's day, many of his characters can be read as aromantic. The paper takes a closer look at Aredhel, Bilbo, and Boromir as three examples of characters who can be read as aromantic.
Featured Themed Collection
Beyond the Silmarillion
[Writing] here you will dwell, bound to your grief by Elrond's Library
Arwen grieves, and loves.
[Writing] Faramir's Verse by losselen
“Come, Faramir. Let us not stand in ceremony. I think words are due between you and I, and not only those between a King and his Steward.”
Faramir has speech with Gandalf and his King.
[Writing] In a Hole in the Ground... by StarSpray
“There’s a goblin hiding in the taters, Dad!” Pippin hefted the pan, which was much too big for him to carry, let alone wield.
Around the World and Web
March Challenge - Tolkien Short Fanworks
Tolkien Short Fanworks is running a challenge for the month of March to create a Back to Middle-earth Month themed challenge.
Tolkien Fashion Week 2026
This two-week-long Tumblr event is dedicated to honoring the world of fashion and textiles Tolkien wrote about in his books.
Celegorm and Curufin Week 2026
Celegorm and Curufin Week is a Tumblr week celebrating the relationship between Celegorm and Curufin Feanorion
Back to Middle-earth Month 2026
Back to Middle-earth Month is returning for it's 20th year with many prompts and archival efforts.
New and Updated Fanworks
Include Beyond the Silmarillion Fanworks
Ere The Light Faded by Erurainon
The dark and vivid ride of Hurin and his kin unto the Battle of Unnumbered Tears.
| Major Characters: Men |
| Major Relationships: No major relationships listed |
| Genres: Poetry | Challenges: No challenge listed |
| Rating: General | Warnings: No warnings apply |
| Chapters: 1 | Word Count: 62 |
| Posted on | Updated on |
| This fanwork is complete. |
| Table of Contents and Single Chapters | Show All Chapters | Comments (0) |
Galadriel Learns a Lesson by Erurainon
Young Galadriel learns about the dangers of power through a simple childhood error
| Major Characters: Galadriel |
| Major Relationships: No major relationships listed |
| Genres: Poetry | Challenges: No challenge listed |
| Rating: General | Warnings: No warnings apply |
| Chapters: 1 | Word Count: 94 |
| Posted on | Updated on |
| This fanwork is complete. |
| Table of Contents and Single Chapters | Show All Chapters | Comments (0) |
Dark Ships by Erurainon
A lamentation for The Doom of Men by a Bard of Numenor
| Major Characters: Men |
| Major Relationships: No major relationships listed |
| Genres: Poetry | Challenges: No challenge listed |
| Rating: General | Warnings: No warnings apply |
| Chapters: 1 | Word Count: 125 |
| Posted on | Updated on |
| This fanwork is complete. |
| Table of Contents and Single Chapters | Show All Chapters | Comments (0) |
The Tearful Heath by Erurainon
The sorrow of Finduilas still marks her grave. A stranger wanders through the woodland green and stumbles across the mound.
| Major Characters: Finduilas |
| Major Relationships: No major relationships listed |
| Genres: Poetry | Challenges: No challenge listed |
| Rating: General | Warnings: No warnings apply |
| Chapters: 1 | Word Count: 89 |
| Posted on | Updated on |
| This fanwork is complete. |
| Table of Contents and Single Chapters | Show All Chapters | Comments (1) |
Mothers and Daughters by oshun
Just a scrap of not much of anything. For a Femslash Friday submission. Not very slashy even under a microscope. But if I say it is, it is. The requirements are actually flexible. Women liking women is sufficient. (Birthday girl, Zeen, I hope you do not think I am a cheapskate for doubling up a ficlet for you into a challenge entry!)
| Major Characters: Anairë, Aredhel, Eärwen, Finrod Felagund, Galadriel |
| Major Relationships: No major relationships listed |
| Genres: General, Slash/Femslash | Challenges: Strong Women |
| Rating: General | Warnings: No warnings apply |
| Chapters: 1 | Word Count: 268 |
| Posted on | Updated on |
| This fanwork is complete. |
| Table of Contents and Single Chapters | Show All Chapters | Comments (4) |
Sing With the Land by The Wavesinger
You call us less wise, but what do you know of Arda, children of Valinor? AKA 'What the Avari really think about the Noldor'
| Major Characters: Avari |
| Major Relationships: No major relationships listed |
| Genres: | Challenges: B2MeM 2013 |
| Rating: General | Warnings: No warnings apply |
| Chapters: 1 | Word Count: 855 |
| Posted on | Updated on |
| This fanwork is complete. |
| Table of Contents and Single Chapters | Show All Chapters | Comments (11) |
Sons of Stone by The Wavesinger
Aule muses on his creations.
| Major Characters: Aulë |
| Major Relationships: No major relationships listed |
| Genres: General | Challenges: B2MeM 2013 |
| Rating: General | Warnings: No warnings apply |
| Chapters: 1 | Word Count: 238 |
| Posted on | Updated on |
| This fanwork is complete. |
| Table of Contents and Single Chapters | Show All Chapters | Comments (4) |
| Major Characters: Fëanor |
| Major Relationships: No major relationships listed |
| Genres: Poetry | Challenges: No challenge listed |
| Rating: General | Warnings: Character Death |
| Chapters: 1 | Word Count: 33 |
| Posted on | Updated on |
| This fanwork is complete. |
| Table of Contents and Single Chapters | Show All Chapters | Comments (0) |
Atalantë by Dwimordene
Always read between the lines.
Aldarion, the Guild of Venturers, OCs, political economy. Inspired by the "Arda Underground" challenge, but could probably also pass for the "Fanon Inverted" challenge.
| Major Characters: Númenóreans, Original Character(s), Tar-Aldarion |
| Major Relationships: No major relationships listed |
| Genres: Drama | Challenges: No challenge listed |
| Rating: General | Warnings: No warnings apply |
| Chapters: 2 | Word Count: 4, 617 |
| Posted on | Updated on |
| This fanwork is complete. |
| Table of Contents and Single Chapters | Show All Chapters | Comments (0) |
Forgiveness by LadyBrooke
In the Halls, Dior seeks out Maedhros to speak of family, forgiveness, and children.
| Major Characters: Dior, Maedhros |
| Major Relationships: No major relationships listed |
| Genres: Drama | Challenges: No challenge listed |
| Rating: Teens | Warnings: No warnings apply |
| Chapters: 1 | Word Count: 1, 198 |
| Posted on | Updated on |
| This fanwork is complete. |
| Table of Contents and Single Chapters | Show All Chapters | Comments (2) |
| Major Characters: Túrin |
| Major Relationships: No major relationships listed |
| Genres: Poetry | Challenges: No challenge listed |
| Rating: Adult | Warnings: Suicide |
| Chapters: 1 | Word Count: 107 |
| Posted on | Updated on |
| This fanwork is complete. |
| Table of Contents and Single Chapters | Show All Chapters | Comments (2) |
Ashen Tears by Erurainon
An adaptation of The Fall of Gondolin- A vivid retelling capturing all the heart-ache and truth of Tolkien's classic tale.
| Major Characters: Noldor |
| Major Relationships: No major relationships listed |
| Genres: Drama | Challenges: No challenge listed |
| Rating: Adult | Warnings: Character Death |
| Chapters: 9 | Word Count: 21, 932 |
| Posted on | Updated on |
| This fanwork is complete. |
| Table of Contents and Single Chapters | Show All Chapters | Comments (0) |
Sons of the Damned by Erurainon
Servents of the Valar warn the lords of Numenor.
| Major Characters: Men |
| Major Relationships: No major relationships listed |
| Genres: Poetry | Challenges: No challenge listed |
| Rating: General | Warnings: No warnings apply |
| Chapters: 1 | Word Count: 86 |
| Posted on | Updated on |
| This fanwork is complete. |
| Table of Contents and Single Chapters | Show All Chapters | Comments (0) |
Lies and Music by Elisif
Approximately half-way split between Fingon x Maedhros viewed through Maglor’s eyes, and Maglor’s post-Nirnaeth Arnoediad relationship with his brother. Significant deviations from canon throughout, approaching AU in parts.
| Major Characters: Fingon, Maedhros, Maglor |
| Major Relationships: No major relationships listed |
| Genres: Drama | Challenges: No challenge listed |
| Rating: Teens | Warnings: Character Death, Mature Themes, Violence (Moderate) |
| Chapters: 1 | Word Count: 2, 227 |
| Posted on | Updated on |
| This fanwork is a work in progress. |
| Table of Contents and Single Chapters | Show All Chapters | Comments (1) |
The Forgotten King by theeventualwinner
Maglor is faced with a brutal choice; to condemn his brother to Morgoth's torments, or to abandon his oath to reclaim the Silmarils. Either way, will he be able to live with his decision?
| Major Characters: Maedhros, Maglor |
| Major Relationships: No major relationships listed |
| Genres: Drama | Challenges: No challenge listed |
| Rating: General | Warnings: No warnings apply |
| Chapters: 1 | Word Count: 1, 230 |
| Posted on | Updated on |
| This fanwork is complete. |
| Table of Contents and Single Chapters | Show All Chapters | Comments (0) |
Blessed Thing by Erurainon
Beren gives Luthien the necklase of Doriath to wear bearing the Silmaril.
| Major Characters: Beren |
| Major Relationships: No major relationships listed |
| Genres: Romance | Challenges: No challenge listed |
| Rating: General | Warnings: No warnings apply |
| Chapters: 1 | Word Count: 477 |
| Posted on | Updated on |
| This fanwork is complete. |
| Table of Contents and Single Chapters | Show All Chapters | Comments (0) |
Love We Must Pay by Erurainon
Feanor lashes out at Manwe from afar
| Major Characters: Fëanor |
| Major Relationships: No major relationships listed |
| Genres: Poetry | Challenges: No challenge listed |
| Rating: General | Warnings: No warnings apply |
| Chapters: 1 | Word Count: 56 |
| Posted on | Updated on |
| This fanwork is complete. |
| Table of Contents and Single Chapters | Show All Chapters | Comments (0) |
A Whisper of the Wood by Erurainon
A song of Brethil during the First age
| Major Characters: No major characters listed |
| Major Relationships: No major relationships listed |
| Genres: Poetry | Challenges: No challenge listed |
| Rating: General | Warnings: No warnings apply |
| Chapters: 1 | Word Count: 73 |
| Posted on | Updated on |
| This fanwork is complete. |
| Table of Contents and Single Chapters | Show All Chapters | Comments (0) |
The Silver Road by Elleth
After Míriel's release from Mandos, she departs for the House of Vairë, but who - and what - helped her come to that decision?
| Major Characters: Findis, Indis, Míriel Serindë, Nerdanel |
| Major Relationships: No major relationships listed |
| Genres: General, Slash/Femslash | Challenges: No challenge listed |
| Rating: Teens | Warnings: No warnings apply |
| Chapters: 1 | Word Count: 5, 172 |
| Posted on | Updated on |
| This fanwork is complete. |
| Table of Contents and Single Chapters | Show All Chapters | Comments (6) |
The Great Divide by ALark
The Avari of Taur Romen find themselves caught in the turmoil of the Third age just before the War of the Ring gets in full swing. In ages passed they were able to avoid the conflict between Sauron and the Free Peoples of Middle Earth,but that time is long past. the War of the Ring is on the horizon, leaving their leader, Hensilien, only one ultimatum: solicit the help of their kin in the west of whom they have habored resentment for since the First Sundering or watch their forest die at the hands of the shadow and count down to their own annihilation by the forces of Sauron.
| Major Characters: Avari, Celeborn, Elrond, Galadriel, Glorfindel |
| Major Relationships: No major relationships listed |
| Genres: Drama, Experimental | Challenges: No challenge listed |
| Rating: Teens | Warnings: Expletive Language |
| Chapters: 2 | Word Count: 4, 151 |
| Posted on | Updated on |
| This fanwork is a work in progress. |
| Table of Contents and Single Chapters | Show All Chapters | Comments (4) |
Field of Research by Himring
A wise-woman of the Edain has an unexpected visitor.
| Major Characters: Adanel |
| Major Relationships: No major relationships listed |
| Genres: General | Challenges: B2MeM 2013 |
| Rating: General | Warnings: No warnings apply |
| Chapters: 1 | Word Count: 252 |
| Posted on | Updated on |
| This fanwork is complete. |
| Table of Contents and Single Chapters | Show All Chapters | Comments (8) |
House of Finwë drabbles by clotho123
Thirty-one drabbles, each from the point of view of a different member of the House of Finwë
| Major Characters: Aegnor, Amras, Amrod, Angrod, Aredhel, Arwen, Caranthir, Celebrían, Celebrimbor, Celegorm, Curufin, Elladan, Elrohir, Elrond, Elros, Eärendil, Fëanor, Finarfin, Finduilas, Fingolfin, Fingon, Finrod Felagund, Finwë, Galadriel, Gil-galad, Idril, Maedhros, Maeglin, Maglor, Orodreth, Turgon |
| Major Relationships: No major relationships listed |
| Genres: Fixed-Length Ficlet | Challenges: B2MeM 2011 |
| Rating: General | Warnings: No warnings apply |
| Chapters: 1 | Word Count: 3, 300 |
| Posted on | Updated on |
| This fanwork is complete. |
| Table of Contents and Single Chapters | Show All Chapters | Comments (2) |
The Mask You Own by Erurainon
A poem from Feanor's wife scorning her husband's vanity
| Major Characters: Nerdanel |
| Major Relationships: No major relationships listed |
| Genres: Poetry | Challenges: No challenge listed |
| Rating: General | Warnings: No warnings apply |
| Chapters: 1 | Word Count: 103 |
| Posted on | Updated on |
| This fanwork is a work in progress. |
| Table of Contents and Single Chapters | Show All Chapters | Comments (1) |
Death is Mine by Erurainon
A noldo laments loss facing the grinding ice
| Major Characters: Noldor |
| Major Relationships: No major relationships listed |
| Genres: Poetry | Challenges: No challenge listed |
| Rating: General | Warnings: No warnings apply |
| Chapters: 1 | Word Count: 63 |
| Posted on | Updated on |
| This fanwork is a work in progress. |
| Table of Contents and Single Chapters | Show All Chapters | Comments (0) |
Choices by Meisiluosi
Only the last two Fëanorians remain and they are about to conclude their quest and fulfill their Oath. Maedhros's thoughts and reflections as he and his brother seal their fate...
| Major Characters: Maedhros, Maglor |
| Major Relationships: No major relationships listed |
| Genres: General | Challenges: No challenge listed |
| Rating: General | Warnings: No warnings apply |
| Chapters: 1 | Word Count: 1, 897 |
| Posted on | Updated on |
| This fanwork is complete. |
| Table of Contents and Single Chapters | Show All Chapters | Comments (1) |
