Distorted Perceptions of Others
In my reading and studying yesterday of The Two Towers, J. R. R. Tolkien’s second book in The Lord of the Rings, I was intrigued by a conversation between Samwise Gamgee and Faramir. Sam was impressed by Faramir’s generosity and hospitality toward elves. Faramir commented on how times had changed and others did not trust elves. Faramir said, “Men now fear and misdoubt the Elves, and yet know little of them.” This reminded me and made me consider how fear and misunderstanding can distort perceptions of others, especially those who are different or mysterious.
From this, we can learn that often, fear of the unknown leads to mistrust and prejudice, even when the actual intentions or nature of those misunderstood are benign or misunderstood. It emphasizes the importance of seeking knowledge and understanding before forming judgments. In a broader sense, it reminds us to approach unfamiliar situations or people with curiosity rather than suspicion, fostering empathy and reducing conflict rooted in ignorance.
Our Real-Life Story
Fleming Rutledge, author of The Battle for Middle-earth: Tolkien’s Divine Design in The Lord of the Rings, discussed how in The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings we find that J. R. R. Tolkien made them real-life stories. The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings are not happily-ever-after stories. They are real-life stories like we live out every day.
Rutledge explained that Tolkien’s stories, as with our lives are told and can be understood through both “surface narratives” and “deep narratives.” Surface narratives are the stories about our everyday lives. These are the stories abound our roles, routines, achievements, and experiences. Deep narratives, on the other hand, involve the underlying beliefs, values, and meanings that shape our identity and choices. They often relate to questions like “Who am I at my core?” “What is my purpose?” or “What do I value most?”
Our deep narratives are often shaped by our actions, choices, and experiences over time. The way we respond to life’s challenges, pursue our passions, and forge our relationships can reinforce or reshape the stories we tell ourselves about who we are and what gives our lives meaning. Just like the characters of The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings, our deeds and decisions act as the building blocks of our inner narratives, helping us create a sense of purpose and coherence that guides our journey.
Byron's Babbles 
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