Category: Lord of the Rings

To flee and hide does not grant safety. It only brings a false sense of security. The anticipation of the enemy`s next move stirs the fragile safety. We can run and hide from many different situations, feelings, thoughts, but that doesn`t mean they would not catch up with us. Facing something, however terrifying, eliminates the feelings of dread that haunt us if we don`t.

The truth comes to light. Honesty prevails. However, not every honest confession leads to absolution. The truth does set us free, in a sense that it takes the burden off our shoulders. But it also does not have to meet the understanding of others.

Betrayal and torture, not complete unknowns to Sméagol. Before Frodo ever set off on his perilous journey, Gollum was captured and tortured for information about the whereabouts of the Ring, hence the whipping scars on his back. It only follows the logic that he should be careful and suspicious of any company besides his “master`s”.

The strength of the Ring-bearer is failing. In his heart, Frodo begins to understand: the quest will claim his life. You know this. You have foreseen it. It is the risk we all took. In the gathering dark, the will of the Ring grows strong. It works hard now to find its way back into the hands of Men. Men, who are so easily seduced by its power. The young captain of Gondor has but to extend his hand, take the Ring for his own and the world will fall. It is close now. So close to achieving its goal. For Sauron will have dominion over all life on this Earth even unto the ending of the world. 

Galadriel

The river drags Aragorn`s body to an embankment. Upon the rocky surface, Aragorn`s spirit seems to have left his body, leaving him for dead. But then, at the right moment, Arwen`s mirage appears before his eyes. She leans over, kissing his lips, thereby transferring the grace of the Valar onto Aragorn to protect him. 

To have a ray of hope drowned in darkness is torture for the soul. It creates a hollow in one`s chest that burns without fire. A crater of grief expanding from within, drowning all possibility of joy and hope. A cloud of misery encroaching on every thought in our minds. It drains the mind while simultaneously draining the body of energy.

Two lovers, two souls, two different perspectives. Love may bind them as strong as it will, and keep them together forever, but their own views on a certain situation may influence the survival of the same.

What would you do, if you were to choose between the “right” thing and your heart`s desire? If you follow your heart, would you consider that decision a selfish one? Would you be selfish in love or would you suffer for a just cause?

Leaving home is a torturous ordeal. Leaving behind everything known for an unknown residence, if only temporary, imprints heavily on a person`s heart. An uncertain fate. However, there not being any other alternative, one must do what one can to go on.

Frodo and Sam found a place to rest for a while before continuing on their journey. We see Frodo resting his eyes in the sun. Since his journey will lead him through sunless paths, poisonous fumes, ash and darkness, a bit of sun will do him good. Sam stands on the lookout for anything that might be stirring or coming to disrupt his friend`s rest.