I’m currently reading a book called Bandersnatch, about the writing collaboration between JRR Tolkien and C.S. Lewis and other writers that called themselves “Inklings.” I am astounded to think that we might never have had the gift of Lord of the Rings, were it not for C.S. Lewis’s encouragement to his friend “Tollers.”
A few quotes from the trilogy (which, if you haven’t read yet, you really should do so):
There is a seed of courage hidden (often deeply, it is true) in the heart of the fattest and most timid hobbit, waiting for some final and desperate danger to make it grow.
JRR Tolkien, Fellowship of the Rings
As someone who has often had a very timid heart, I find this fabulously encouraging.
Indeed, in nothing is the power of the Dark Lord, more clearly shown than in the estrangement that divides all who still oppose him.
(same)
“The counsel of Gandolf was not founded on foreknowledge of safety, for himself, or for others,” said Aragorn. “There are some things that it is better to begin than to refuse, even though the end is dark.”
JRR Tolkien, The Two Towers
“Work of the enemy!” said Gandolf. “Such deeds he loves: friend at war with friend; loyalty divided in confusion of hearts.
JRR Tolkien, The Return of the King
There, peeping among the cloud-wrack above a dark tor high up in the mountains, Sam saw a white star twinkle for a while. The beauty of it smote his heart, as he looked up out of the forsaken land, and hope returned to him. For like a shaft, clear and cold, the thought pierced him that in the end, the shadow was only a small and passing thing: there was light and high beauty forever beyond its reach.
(Same)
Well, here at last, dear friends, on the shores of the Sea, comes the end of our fellowship in Middle-Earth. Go in peace! I will not say: do not weep; for not all tears are an evil.
(same)
Of course, those quotes are just a pittance compared to the full breadth of the book. Go and read it.
I’ll probably delete this in the morning, but not all deletions are an evil.
Lynniebeemuseoday 