J.R.R. Tolkien Poems

J.R.R. Tolkien is remembered today for his groundbreaking, beloved trilogy, The Lord of the Rings, and the related short novel The Hobbit. His poems, many of which related directly to his stories, are lesser-known but well worth reading on their own. Read more about J.R.R. Tolkien.

Some of Tolkien’s most famous poems include All that is gold does not glitter, Far over the misty mountains cold, The Road Goes Ever On, and The Riddle of Strider.

Far over the misty mountains cold

by J.R.R. Tolkien

‘Far over the misty mountains cold’ by J.R.R. Tolkien depicts the destruction of Thorin Oakenshield’s home and his desire to win it back from Smaug. 

Tolkien is one of the best-known English fantasy writers. His work has been highly influential on the genre. This is not one of his better-known pieces of literature, but one of his best-known poems. Most people who have read his books and even those who have only watched the film adaptions of his books will recognize it.

Far over the misty mountains cold

To dungeons deep and caverns old

We must away ere break of day

To seek the pale enchanted gold.

Explore more poems from J.R.R. Tolkien

The Riddle of Strider

by J.R.R. Tolkien

‘The Riddle of Strider’ by J.R.R. Tolkien depicts story highlights for one character from The Lord of the Rings. That character is Aragorn, from his heritage to his becoming “king.”

The Road Goes Ever On

by J.R.R. Tolkien

‘The Road Goes Ever On’ by J.R.R. Tolkien consists of only two verses, but the structure and approach within them are sufficient to highlight the epic journey before and after the song surfaces in the book.

The Best-Kept Secrets of Poetry

Discover and learn about the greatest poetry ever straight to your inbox

Discover and learn about the greatest poetry, straight to your inbox

Start Your Perfect Poetry Journey