Here's why:
* Time Period: *The Hobbit* takes place in a fantastical world called Middle-earth, with its own history and mythology. It does not directly reference any real-world historical events, including World War I.
* Themes: While Tolkien did explore themes of good versus evil, courage, and the dangers of greed in *The Hobbit*, these themes are more universal and timeless, rather than specific to any particular war.
* Personal Influence: Tolkien's experiences in World War I, especially his time in the trenches, undoubtedly had a profound impact on his writing. However, these influences are more subtle and indirect, often appearing in his later works like *The Lord of the Rings*.
However, it's important to note that *The Hobbit* was written during a time of significant societal upheaval and tension. The world was on the brink of another major war, and this context likely influenced Tolkien's choices in his writing to some extent.
In conclusion, while *The Hobbit* doesn't explicitly reference World War I, the historical context of its creation, and Tolkien's personal experiences, may have contributed to its underlying themes and messages.