Are tolkien collectors the most hardcore completeists?
3 Aug, 2009
2009-8-3 4:23:47 PM UTC
2009-8-3 4:23:47 PM UTC
It seems like most collectors of other authors mostly want first editions. Tolkien collectors seem to be more "completeist" in their approach.
What do you think?
What do you think?
I think there are at least a couple of different factors at work. Off the top of my head (I am sure there are other reasons):
- Tolkien's major works have remained in print since they were issued, and have sold incredibly well. This has led to many different editions, many different illustrated editions, textual changes, etc. Because his works appeal across the generations, as new readers discover him they each bring their own favorite edition they started out with. They also each bring their own budget! Which leads to...
- Tolkien's works can be collected under any budget. Very few are the fans who can afford his first editions (even back in the mid-nineties the LOTR first edition sets were listing for many thousands of dollars).
- Every collection is different - for first edition collectors in general, there is no such thing as being complete (in other words, having a copy of every first edition ever published) - you have to specialize in your collection, based on interests, budget, and space amongst other things. (A spouse is often on this list as well.
)
Tolkien collectors are a special breed of Tolkien fan. You cross the line when you end up with a second copy of one of his works. From there, it is all downhill.....
- Tolkien's major works have remained in print since they were issued, and have sold incredibly well. This has led to many different editions, many different illustrated editions, textual changes, etc. Because his works appeal across the generations, as new readers discover him they each bring their own favorite edition they started out with. They also each bring their own budget! Which leads to...
- Tolkien's works can be collected under any budget. Very few are the fans who can afford his first editions (even back in the mid-nineties the LOTR first edition sets were listing for many thousands of dollars).
- Every collection is different - for first edition collectors in general, there is no such thing as being complete (in other words, having a copy of every first edition ever published) - you have to specialize in your collection, based on interests, budget, and space amongst other things. (A spouse is often on this list as well.
) Tolkien collectors are a special breed of Tolkien fan. You cross the line when you end up with a second copy of one of his works. From there, it is all downhill.....
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