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Tag Archives: Tolkien
Loving Smeagol–and Addicts
Odd, as it may seem, reading J. R. R. Tolkien has helped me love meth addicts—of which there are many in Myrtle Point. Tom Shippey’s book, J. R. R. Tolkien: Author of the Century, argues that Tolkien’s Lord of the … Continue reading
Posted in On Faith, Tolkien, Uncategorized
Tagged Addiction, Gollum, Smeagol, Tolkien, Tweakers
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Nietzsche, Tom Bombadil and the Stronger Song.
Friedrich Nietzsche famously said of the church: “They would have to sing better songs to make me believe in their Redeemer.” Although wrong about much, Nietzsche is right about framing belief and salvation as contest of songs. J.R.R. Tolkien also … Continue reading
Be Kingsfoil
In June, I spoke at a One Year Adventure Novel Summer Workshop at Mid-America Nazarene University in Olathe, Kansas. It was a privilege and great fun. I spoke to about 200 young writers between the ages of 13—19. Because most … Continue reading
Will You Not Come Down
These are Gandalf’s words to Saruman in Tolkien’s The Two Towers. Saruman, once Saruman the White, had allowed a lust for power and greatness to corrupt him. But in this scene he stands in the window of his tower surrounded … Continue reading
Growing Elven
After their encounter with elves on the road, Frodo asks Sam what he thinks of elves now that he has seen them up close. He says, “They are quite different from what I expected—so old and young, and so gay … Continue reading
What You Asked For
The beginning of The Hobbit is a joy. It is more of a delight now than when I first read it fifty years ago. I may not have a snug hobbit hole, but today I am comfortable. I have lived … Continue reading