The Tales That Really Matter | Happy Hobbit Day!

“…The brave things in the old tales and songs, Mr. Frodo: adventures, as I used to call them. I used to think that they were things the wonderful folk of the stories went out and looked for, because they wanted them, because they were exciting and life was a bit dull, a kind of a sport, as you might say. But that’s not the way of it with the tales that really mattered, or the ones that stay in the mind.” 

- The Two Towers -

The stories that matter endure for a reason. Whatever the many reasons may be, the stories continue to leave a lasting impression.

First published over eighty years ago, The Hobbit remains one of the most beloved stories in the world, ushering in the grand world of Lord of the Rings and introducing us to the enchanting land of Middle-earth and the peoples who populate it, and a ring that is more than just a band of gold.  Whether in the form of the original novels or the iconic film trilogy, the story of Middle-earth inspires admiration and wonder across generations. Ask anyone who’s a fan, and you’ll hear any number of reasons why they love it.

I fell in love with this world at nine years old, watching as the Fellowship set out on their grand quest. At the time, at least half of this obsession was because of Legolas (but really: who didn’t love him?), but there was more to it than that. Here was a story that felt real. Each year, the waiting for the next movie was spent in eager anticipation of seeing how the adventure would end, who would withstand the temptation of the Ring, and whether good could win in the end.

And good does win in the end, but not without a struggle.

“But I expect they had lots of chances, like us, of turning back, only they didn’t.”

- The Two Towers -

These stories of Hobbits and quests give us hope that light can—and will—shine through in the darkest moments. They show us that anyone can be brave, sometimes just by taking the smallest step forward. These stories remind us that adventures are more than the daring and dangerous quests, but also the choices we make every day.

While we may not be traveling across a fantastical land on a quest to destroy a magic ring, or reclaim a kingdom, or slay a dragon, the stories of Middle-earth inspire us to take those small, brave steps in our real lives, and to cling to hope even in the hardest struggles.

“…in the end the Shadow was only a small and passing thing: there was light and high beauty for ever beyond its reach.” 

- The Return of the King -

What’s your favorite thing about Lord of the Rings?