Tolkien and Edith Fall in Love

During the summer of 1909, J.R.R. Tolkien and Edith Bratt recognized their mutual affection for one another. Both individuals had experienced the loss of their parents at a young age, which fostered a deep need for companionship and emotional support. Their shared background as orphans created a bond that allowed them to connect on a profound level. Tolkien, who was 21 at the time, expressed his feelings for Edith in a letter, declaring that he had never stopped loving her. This declaration came at a pivotal moment in their relationship, as Edith was living with a family friend and had recently accepted a marriage proposal from another man, George Field. However, her acceptance was driven by a sense of urgency and loneliness rather than genuine affection, as she felt 'on the shelf' and pressured to settle down. This complex emotional landscape highlighted the challenges they faced in pursuing their love amidst societal expectations and personal insecurities.