A set of Tolkien's ideas (8)

I believe the answer is:

inklings

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'ideas' is the definition.
(inkling is a kind of idea)

I can't explain the rest of the clue.

(Other definitions for inklings that I've seen before include "hints" , "Slinking with intimations or suspicions" , "Hings, slight suspicions" , "Intimations, slight suspicions" , "Slight suggestions, intimations" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.

Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.