I agree, and I think the format consequently sits in an uncomfortable liminal space between academic and popular, one that compromises too much and satisfies ne

I agree, and I think the format consequently sits in an uncomfortable liminal space between academic and popular, one that compromises too much and satisfies neither. Perhaps it is telling that my favourite piece of the whole collection is not even by Tolkien: The Lays of Beleriand includes a wry commentary by C.S.Lewis, a surprise for myself since I do not generally enjoy his work.