One of 1,077 in the first single-volume edition of "The Lord of the Rings" NYT

The crossword clue "One of 1,077 in the first single-volume edition of The Lord of the Rings" with the answer "PAGE" refers to the sheer length of J.R.R. Tolkien’s epic novel when compiled into a single edition. The number 1,077 denotes the total pages in this hefty edition, highlighting the extensive detail and rich storytelling of Tolkien’s Middle-earth saga.

Each "PAGE" represents a part of the adventure, packed with intricate plots, characters, and landscapes. This clue plays on the literal meaning of "page" as a numbered sheet in a book, emphasizing the impressive length and depth of the work.

The crossword clue "One of 1,077 in the first single-volume edition of The Lord of the Rings" with the answer "WORD" refers to the number of pages in the first single-volume edition. This clue plays on the notion that The Lord of the Rings, known for its extensive length, could have been a work with a massive word count—potentially over half a million words.

Instead, the answer to the clue zeroes in on the number of pages: "1,077" refers to the count of pages in that edition, each filled with words, thus cleverly guiding the solver to "WORD." It also serves as a reminder of Tolkien’s intricate world-building and complex narratives, which were required to fit within these 1,077 pages in this version of the book. The answer “WORD” also encapsulates the power of Tolkien’s writing, which brings Middle-earth to life through words alone, spanning thousands of characters, places, and detailed descriptions across those many pages.

The crossword clue "One of 1,077 in the first single-volume edition of The Lord of the Rings" with the answer "INDEX" refers to the index included in that edition of J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings. In this comprehensive edition, the "1,077" could refer to the total number of pages, which include a variety of supplemental sections.

Among these, the index is a crucial reference tool that lists key terms, characters, places, and events in the book, helping readers quickly locate specific information within the sprawling text. The index is particularly important in a work as detailed and intricate as The Lord of the Rings, where a vast array of names, locations, and lore might otherwise be difficult to track. It is an essential guide for readers seeking to revisit certain aspects of the world of Middle-earth, providing a structured means of navigation through the complex narrative and extensive world-building that Tolkien created.