The Spear of Destiny is given properties similar to the One Ring, including a hidden inscription that can only be revealed by fire, and the ability to whisper in order to entice its owners to make use of it.
In reality, Tolkien's experiences in the First World War influenced many of elements that appeared in in his novel, particularly the depiction of Mordor resembling a World War I era battlefield, and the relationship between officers and their enlisted men mirrored in Frodo and Sam.
The title is an homage and reference to J.R.R. Tolkien Lord of the Rings Fellowship of the Ring.
Tolkien is depicted as suffering from Trench Fever at the beginning of this episode. While the Legends cure him of the affliction, in reality, the illness resulted in him being sent home and relieved of combat duty. In his absence, his battalion was virtually wiped out,and all but one of his closest friends were killed by the end of the war.
While in the trench, Tolkien's captain calls him "a fool of a Tolkien," which is a variation of the quote from "lord of the rings the fellowship of the ring" where Gandalf calls pippin "a fool of a took".