I think I understand why the Silmarillion is so hard to read. The first time through, it's as has been said, the stories aren't very detailed, they're more lik

I think I understand why the Silmarillion is so hard to read. The first time through, it's as has been said, the stories aren't very detailed, they're more like old testament books. You definitely have to use your imagination. Also, more and more of the lore is revealed here as well. And then there are the names. Oh, the names! So many to keep track of! I think I really started to get the Silmarillion on maybe the third read. After that it gets easier and easier the more you retain of the stories. It is certainly my favorite Tolkien book after probably five reads or so and I find the stories to be really rich and interesting now. You're right, though, Sauron? But a servant of Morgoth! The stories regarding the Silmarils are my favorite of all of Tolkien's stories, which, of course, span many stories. And don't forget Ungoliant for pure unbridled evil!