Cultus Dispatches: Revelations from Marquette's Fanzine Dataset
In September 2026, Marquette University released a dataset about their Tolkien fanzine collection. Analysis of the data reveals what these fanzines contained and show how pre-internet Tolkien fandom responded to the publication of "The Silmarillion."
SWG News
New Challenge: Unquote
Choose a prompt from our selection of misheard, miswritten, and misrepresented unquotes that are in no way part of the actual "Silmarillon."
Site Etiquette Update: Fandom and Money
We have updated our policy in our Site Etiquette around linking to sites that collect money.
Character of the Month: Eönwë
This month's biography focuses on Eönwë, who started with a variety of identities but settled into the role of Manwë's herald, exemplifying the values of strong leadership and justice.
New & Updated Fanworks
[Writing] Silmarillion Non-Con November 2026 by AngbandThrallNo.1035
This is my collection of ficlets for the various prompts of Non-Con November 2026, I'll update the tags as I upload my fics, each prompt will be a new chapter. This writing event specifically focuses on the absence of consent, so keep that in mind!
Day 1: Groping (Maeglin/…
[Writing] Disco Demolition by kimikocha
“We’ve worked together,” says the stranger with fire in his hair. “We’re investigators.”
Everything he says is technically true.
Inspired by Disco Elysium and written in the game's style, but not a crossover. Familiarity with the game isn't necessary for this fic.
[Writing] All is Dark by gaydhros
Arakáno went down, swarmed by a vicious throng of Orcs wielding crude, blood-hungry blades, and there was nothing Findekáno could do but watch.
[Writing] With These Rings by annarobots
A Lady of the Noldor and a Dark Elf join in body on the forest floor. When he fails to satisfy her bottomless need, she makes use of his fine, strong hands, and their many pretty rings.
[Writing] Come the Second Singing by StarSpray
“Someday,” Elros said as they sat on a high promontory that overlooked the Sea to the west and the new-formed gulf to the south and east, “so far in the future that I suppose it might as well be forever away—”
“In which case it may as well be never,” Elrond said.
[Writing] here we go again by lonelyvisitor
On the eve of his wedding, Gil-galad sends three last-minute invitations to his potential fathers.
Current Challenge
Unquote
Choose a prompt from our selection of misheard, miswritten, and misrepresented unquotes that are in no way part of the actual "Silmarillon." Read more ...
Random Challenge
Wish upon a Star
Create a fanwork where a character wishes upon or muses on the stars. Read more ...
New in References
Fandom before the Time of the Trees: Revelations from Marquette's Fanzine Dataset by Dawn Walls-Thumma
In September 2026, Marquette University released a dataset about their Tolkien fanzine collection. Analysis of the data reveals what these fanzines contained and show how pre-internet Tolkien fandom responded to the publication of "The Silmarillion."
Across the history of the "Silmarillion," Eönwë's role settles on a character who leads without taking upon himself the power to mete out justice and who acts with equanimity across some of the most harrowing conflicts in the early legendarium.
Speak Friend and Enter: Trends in Fandom Entry Year by Dawn Walls-Thumma
Across three surveys and ten years, the Tolkien Fanfiction Survey has document when authors began writing. These data reveal trends in how film promotions, the films themselves, the books, and other historical contexts have influenced not only who writes but how long they stay.
Featured Themed Collection
Beyond the Silmarillion
[Writing] The High Pass to Gondor by octopus_fool
Eorl heard it before he saw it: the sliding of stones as they crossed the high pass into Gondor.
[Writing] Aftermath of a Riot by Susana_R
It's never fun to wake up with a concussion. Fortunately for Faramir, he has Elrond, Aragorn, and the rest of Aragorn's family to help him make the best of a difficult day.
[Writing] Faint Now and Far by Arveldis
Frodo dreams, but it brings no peace.
Around the World and Web
Tolkien Siblings Week 2026
A fandom event focused on sibling relationships in the Tolkien legendarium, running November 23rd to 29th, 2026!
Ainur Week 2026
A Tolkien fandom week dedicated to the Ainur!
Glorthelion Week 2026
A week dedicated to Glorfindel x Ecthelion relationship
Nolofinwëan Week 2026
Nolofinwëan Week is Tumblr fandom event celebrating the House of Fingolfin, running from November 9th - 16th
Tolkien Food Week 2026
fandom event from the 2-8th nov 2026 where we share recipes, fics and comfort food for body and soul.
The High Pass to Gondor by octopus_fool
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The High Pass to Gondor
Eorl heard it before he saw it: the sliding of stones as they crossed the high pass into Gondor. A youth's scream, and gasps.
He ran, seeing his son slip down the slope and come to a precarious halt.
"Don't move!" Eorl shouted, signalling to prepare ropes.
Shortly after, the boy was standing back on the path.
"It was a dare," Brego sobbed as Eorl cleaned his bleeding knees.
"That could have been your end. Bravery is well, but there's wisdom in knowing when it is at place."
Brego nodded.
"Luck was with you. You're bleeding, but you'll be alright."
