What is the role of music in High Fantasy literature?

In High Fantasy literature, music often plays a crucial role in conveying the mood, themes, and overall tone of the story. It is used to create a sense of atmosphere, establish cultural identity, and express the characters' emotions and innermost thoughts. Music can be both a powerful narrative tool and an integral part of the story's world-building, helping to immerse readers in the author's imagined universe.

One example of the role of music in High Fantasy is J.R.R. Tolkien's 'The Lord of the Rings' trilogy. Tolkien places a great deal of importance on music, with many of his characters expressing themselves through song and instrument. The character Tom Bombadil, for instance, is known for his singing and playing of the lute. The Elves are also renowned for their musical abilities and are often depicted singing or playing instruments such as harps and flutes.

Another example is George R.R. Martin's 'A Song of Ice and Fire' series, where music is used to create a sense of cultural identity and to highlight the differences between the various factions in the story. The wildlings, for instance, are known for their raucous, drum-heavy music, while the nobility of Westeros favor more refined and sophisticated compositions.

Overall, the role of music in High Fantasy literature is to enrich the reading experience by adding depth, complexity, and emotional resonance to the story. It is an integral part of the genre's storytelling tradition, and its use can reveal much about the author's world-view, cultural influences, and literary themes.