If there is one thing that can always be relied upon, it is the dedication of the LOTR fandom.

They will always show up for Tolkien’s collected works and everything that is inspired by them, including their own creations. While Stephen Colbert’s LOTR project Shadows of the Past may be facing postponement due to the Warner Bros/Paramount merger, we can be sure that fans will be right there waiting when it finally comes to fruition, along with every other Middle-Earth-related release that has happened so far this century.

It’s true, there is almost always something to look forward to when you enjoy immersing yourself in the world of The Lord of the Rings. It is just such a well-realized and immersive universe that we can continue to get pleasure out of it no matter how many times we return to it. It is a widely understood classic for a reason.

Of course, this status is only elevated by the fact that the fandom creates so many memes to go with their favorite series. They know the plot points and characters inside out, in such a way that they can constantly riff on the story and maybe even relate it to everyday, real-life issues. It is the sign of a quality work of art that it can withstand such varied and constant memeing. Although it may not have been within the intentions of Tolkien, it is certainly one way to honor and prolong his legacy with even more generations of fans.