In 1969, during an upheavel of popularity of the J.R.R. Tolkien work, The Lord of the Rings, Henry N. Beard and Douglas C. Kenny wrote a parody, “Bored of the Rings”. The book was published by Harvard Lampoon.
This outrageous parody managed, in a scant 149 pages, to cover most of the story of the original three-volume set, displaying a complete understanding of Tolkien’s work. The writers took great license with character and setting names, and clearly had a great deal of fun in the writing.
While this is still a fascinating read to lovers of the original trilogy, much of the cultural references would be lost to modern readers. And that’s the pity, as it is in those references that the real genius of the work is best seen.
The book is peopled with wonderful characters like the wizard Goodgulf Greyteeth, Frito Bugger, the young, adventurous Boogie from Bag Eye. Spam Gangree, Frito’s faithful friend start out on their journey, soon followed by Moxie and Pepsi Dingleberry. And on it goes.
Finding a copy these days is easier than even 10 years ago, but I’ll let you search it out for yourself if you’ve found an interest.
I recommend this wonderful book for lovers of Tolkien who do not take themselves too seriously, and for anyone who loves a good send up.
Uphill Writing 