Balrogs, creatures of shadow and flame in J.R.R. Tolkien's universe are, pardon the pun, a topic of hot debate. They are also cool, as, well, cool as hell (Udûn.) In this episode we take a walk through the valley of the shadow to discuss this powerful, captivating and often debated creatures, and take on the old debate: wings vs. no wings.

J.R.R. Tolkien published a lot of material. With the help of his son and literary executor, there is a wealth of published content and commentary, including non-Middle-earth fiction, art, his essays and letters and some excellent writings about The Professor.

So, as a reader, should you follow conventional wisdom or is there a better way to get more out of his works beyond "The Hobbit," and "The Lord of the Rings?" Additionally, how does a reader make the most of the dense and sometimes challenging "The Silmarillion?" Where does that fit into my reading?

In this episode of The Tolkien Podcast, we dig into those questions with answers and suggestions that don't follow the traditional wisdom.

PODCAST DISCLAIMER: This podcast, is created to discuss the works, and life of J.R.R. Tolkien, with diversions into works inspired by his efforts, the ramifications of his works on pop culture — indeed culture — the works of his son Christopher Tolkien.

We will also discuss adaptations of The Professor’s works in other mediums most definitely including film, television, art and music, or anything else that seems worthy of discussion or of interest. It is all part of the broad topic presented here.

In no way is anything discussed here part of, or officially or unofficially endorsed by anyone associated with the Tolkien Estate, Middle-earth Enterprises, any of the publishers in any of the countries around the world that print Tolkien books, or any of the studios or artists that publish Tolkien content of any kind. Indeed, this is simply fair use commentary and discussion of all of the above and more.

Meet your host, Larry D Curtis. Student of J.R.R. Tolkien, veteran journalist and your guide through Middle-earth on the Tolkien Podcast.