What the right gets wrong about Tolkien

This episode of "Today, Explained" explores the cultural impact of "The Lord of the Rings," particularly in the context of post-9/11 America and its modern interpretations. The discussion covers how the films resonated with a nation grappling with good versus evil narratives, the initial skepticism surrounding the movie's success, and the shift in understanding the story's themes over time. It further examines how different groups, including the "new right," have adopted and potentially misinterpreted the story's message, particularly regarding the corrupting nature of power. The podcast analyzes the deeper themes of Tolkien's work, such as compassion, preservation of beauty, and the rejection of domination, and contrasts them with the actions and ideologies of contemporary political movements.