The Rings of Power: Writers Aim for Timeless Myth in the Second Age
Patrick McKay, one of the showrunners behind The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power, shared in a media interview that the team chose to stay true to the original vision rather than chase a snapshot of contemporary events. The series will not adopt a modern agenda or rely on direct parallels to today’s world, emphasizing a mythic quality that transcends era-specific concerns.
McKay explained that John Tolkien’s goal was to craft a timeless myth rather than comment on the events of his own time or those of others. The writers embraced that same objective, seeking to produce something enduring—an epic that would not feel outdated after a few years. The strategy was to ensure the narrative remains relevant across generations without tethering it to a single moment in history.
He noted that the Second Age spans thousands of years, which naturally means only the elves would retain a sense of continuity while many other characters and cultures evolve. While non-linear storytelling was considered, the team ultimately concluded that a straightforward narrative would best serve the grand arc they envisioned.
The Lord of the Rings: Rings of Power is set to premiere on September 2, featuring eight episodes in its first season. In advance of the debut, promotional material offered glimpses from the production, including stills and a new trailer that highlighted Sauron in a striking visual form that drew comparisons from audiences and commentators alike. The campaign underscores the series’ ambition to reimagine iconic Middle‑earth figures within a broader saga.
With a focus on expansive lore and character-driven storytelling, the early material positions the show as a bold exploration of the Second Age, inviting fans to witness the evolution of realms, alliances, and power that shape the later chapters of Middle-earth.