1. A Conversational and Informal Tone: Tolkien writes in a conversational style, as if he is sitting down with the reader and telling a story. This is achieved through:
* Direct address to the reader: He frequently uses phrases like "you see" and "I wonder if you can guess" to draw the reader into the narrative.
* Informal language: Tolkien uses simpler language and avoids overly formal diction.
* Humorous anecdotes and asides: The text is sprinkled with moments of humor and lightheartedness, further enhancing the conversational feel.
2. Descriptive Language: Tolkien excels at painting vivid images through his descriptive language:
* Detailed descriptions of landscapes, characters, and events: The reader is immersed in the world of Middle-earth through rich descriptions of the Shire, the dwarves, and their adventures.
* Sensory details: Tolkien engages all senses, bringing the world to life through descriptions of sounds, smells, textures, and tastes.
* Figurative language: Metaphors, similes, and other figures of speech are used to create memorable imagery.
3. A Sense of Wonder and Adventure: The narrative is filled with a sense of wonder and excitement, captured through:
* Exaggeration and hyperbole: Tolkien uses exaggeration to heighten the adventure, creating a sense of awe and danger.
* Suspenseful pacing: The story unfolds at a pace that builds anticipation and keeps the reader engaged.
* Intriguing and fantastical elements: From the mysterious goings-on in the Shire to the dangers of the wild, the story is full of elements that spark the imagination.
4. Regional Dialects and Accents: Tolkien includes elements of different regional dialects and accents, particularly noticeable in the dwarves' speech:
* Germanic influences: The dwarves speak in a way that reflects their Germanic origins, with names like Thorin Oakenshield and Dwalin.
* Scottish influences: The dwarves also exhibit traits of Scottish speech, with a tendency towards guttural sounds and an emphasis on certain syllables.
5. Direct Speech and Dialogue: Tolkien uses direct speech and dialogue to bring characters to life:
* Distinct voices for each character: The characters have unique ways of speaking that reflect their personalities.
* Dialogue as a tool for exposition and character development: The dialogue often reveals information about the characters and the plot.
Overall, the speaking style in The Hobbit is a key element of its appeal. It is both engaging and immersive, transporting the reader to a world of adventure and wonder.