The Prologue to the Lord of the Rings

[bacon]

The one thing I have never read in Lord of the Rings is the prologue. I've never felt it necessary, and I do understand the story as a whole as far as I know. Am I missing anything that I need to know from the Prologue? Is it worth reading?

I tried to start on it once upon a time, but it never did seem worth reading. Your opinions on this matter are needed.

[DDL]

Hmm...an interesting question. I believe it adds more to the experience, as you have a little background about the ring before you begin...although it is kind of confusing.

[bacon]

Well, it has information about the Hobbit if you haven't already read it, which I have, and it seems to elaborate a bunch on useless (but, perhaps interesting and fun) information about the Shire.

[DDL]

Does anyone else have any opinions?