I first read LOTR in Russian, and I must say that I enjoyed - and still enjoy - it very much. I have a good translation that does not lose the book's charm. Some dialogue is changed a bit, but it is done to keep the spirit of the words intact. The language reflects the speaker/race, just like in the original, and it's archaic and just sounds beautiful.
On the other hand, I read a translation of The Sil, and it was the worst thing ever written. It sounded like an instruction book to a computer game.
It really depends on the translation.
The Sil for me is only in English. I know it in English. But there are 2 LOTRs for me. I don't favour either one; they are both equally good, but there is just a slight difference.
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You passed from under darkened dome, you enter now the secret land. - Take me to Finrod's fabled home!... ~ Finrod: The Rock Opera
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