JRR Tolkien was one of the most influential writers and scholars of the 20th century, widely regarded as the father of modern high fantasy literature.
Quote of the day: “It is not our part to control all the tides of the world, but to do what is in us to help those years in which we are set, rooting out evil in the fields we know, that those who live after may till a pure land. What weather they will have is not ours.”
— Gandalf The Return of the King Book Five Chapter 9 — The Last Debate by JRR Tolkien.
What does Tolkien mean by this quote?
The quote spoken by Gandalf reminds us that we do not control the entire course of the world or its future. Instead, it is our responsibility to do the right thing in our own time, confront the problems we see, reduce the damage where possible, and leave things better for those who come after us.
Plus, it’s less about winning it all and more about doing meaningful good where you stand, even if you don’t know how things will turn out in the end.
Tolkien’s Early Life
Tolkien was born on 3 January 1892 in Bloemfontein in the Orange Free State to English parents. He is best known for creating the epic world of Middle-earth and authoring The Hobbit (1937), The Lord of the Rings trilogy (published 1954–1955), and The Silmarillion, which was posthumously published in 1977 and edited by his son Christopher Tolkien.
His works have sold hundreds of millions of copies, inspired countless adaptations, including Peter Jackson’s acclaimed film trilogies, and shaped the fantasy genre.
Famous quotes from Tolkien
“Many who live deserve death. And some who die deserve life. Can you give it to them? Then don’t try too hard to decide death in your judgment.” — Gandalf to Frodo about Gollum in The Fellowship of the Ring.
“There must be war while we defend our lives against the destroyer who would devour all; but I love not the bright sword for its sharpness, nor the arrow for its speed, nor the warrior for his glory. I love only that which defends.” — Faramir in The Two Towers.
“I will not say: do not cry, because not all tears are evil.” — Gandalf in the Gray Havens in The Return of the King.
“Even the smallest person can change the course of the future.” — Galadriel.
