J. R. R. Tolkien, a philologist and author, masterfully employed a range of sophisticated literary devices in his iconic high fantasy work, The Lord of the Rings, published in 1954–55. This monumental epic quickly garnered immense popularity from the 1960s, consistently ranking as one of the most beloved books in numerous global surveys, including the BBC's 2003 "Big Read," and its appeal was further amplified by Peter Jackson's film trilogy (2001–2003).

Tolkien's narrative structure is particularly complex, often described as medieval "interlacing" (entrelacement), which skillfully weaves together intersecting story threads to build suspense and reveal subtle, retrospective connections. In contrast, the first volume, The Fellowship of the Ring, features a more linear narrative centered on Frodo, marked by recurring cycles of danger followed by recuperation in safe "Homely Houses." Beyond structure, Tolkien utilized techniques like pseudotranslation, editorial framing, and deliberate character pairing to cultivate an impressive sense of depth and history, making the work both engaging and intellectually rich for readers.