J.R.R. 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 master all the tides of the world, but to do what is in us for the succour of those years wherein we are set, uprooting the evil in the fields that we know, so that those who live after may have clean earth to till. What weather they shall have is not ours to rule."
— Gandalf The Return of the King Book Five, Chapter 9 — The Last Debate J.R.R. Tolkien.
What does Tolkien mean by this quote?
Spoken by Gandalf, the quote reminds us that we don’t control the entire course of the world or its future. Instead, our duty is to act rightly within our own time, to confront the problems we can see, reduce harm where we’re able, and leave things better for those who come after us.
Moreover, it's less about winning everything and more about doing meaningful good where you stand, even without knowing how things will ultimately turn out.
Tolkien's early life
Tolkien was born on 3 January 1892, in Bloemfontein, 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, 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 by Tolkien
“Many that live deserve death. And some that die deserve life. Can you give it to them? Then do not be too eager to deal out death in judgement.” — Gandalf to Frodo about Gollum in The Fellowship of the Ring.
“War must be, while we defend our lives against a destroyer who would devour all; but I do not love the bright sword for its sharpness, nor the arrow for its swiftness, nor the warrior for his glory. I love only that which they defend.” — Faramir in The Two Towers.
“I will not say: do not weep; for not all tears are an evil.” — Gandalf at the Grey Havens in The Return of the King.
“Even the smallest person can change the course of the future.” — Galadriel.
