I think it could be pretty intimidating/look incredibly elitist to someone who wrote long soaps featuring Elrond's sons, Legolas or Haldir (for example). And there were some Silm people who could be a bit slighting about that, which didn't help.

I know a decent amount of canon and where to look for things (or who to ask) if I need information, but there's no way I can afford to buy the more obscure works. I think the emphasis that's crept in on the need for scholarship would frighten me right away if I hadn't been here this long, and it's a pity because it's not a prerequisite.