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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