For anyone who cares, I have a new post up on my blog now that touches on this subject: http://henrynsilva.blogspot.com/2022/12/revisiting-my-empire-strikes-back-hot.html?m=1
Oh cool, you referenced my Tolkien comparison! I’m glad that was food for thought.
Ah, was that you? I remember reading it but couldn’t remember who said it. If you want me to edit the post to credit you then let me know!