I got your email address of a newsgroup.

I am wondering if you can help me.

I am a journalist working for the Waikato Times, New Zealand, and have been
assigned to do a feature on the cult of Lord of the Rings fandom.

I am approaching this assignment as a complete outsider. I have never read
Lord of the Rings.

Can you explain, for the benefit of readers, the attraction of Lord of the
Rings, and why it lends itself so much to the cult following?

How obsessed are you with Tolkein/LOTR (eg have you considered changing your
name to Galadriel)

Has the internet, and the easy contact with other fans fed this obsession?

What are your expectations for the movie? Will you be disappointed if it
veers away from the book?

Will the movie diminish or expand the cult of the book?

Do you belong to a Tolkein appreciation society?

Do you feel guilty about pursuing a cult of fantasy

Would also appreciate details on where you live, occupation, age and how
long you have been a Tolkein buff

Many thanks if you can help.<"
I do not pursue a cult of fantasy, and feeling guilty??? I challenge my intellect (whatever I posses) here.
Neithan

[Administrative note: This message has been edited to protect the privacy of the individual who sent the email.]