The Middle Distance

Okay, here's my deal: it's been years and years since I've read the Silmarillion and I do not remember much of it at all (it's long been on my to-read list, just haven't gotten to it yet). I haven't read this story or the first one because I've been afraid I won't get most of it. Should I read a spark notes version of the Silmarillion or should I just say fuck it and dive in? It's killing me not to read this because I love your writing so much.