The Right's Misunderstanding of Tolkien's Allegory
In recent years, it has become increasingly clear that some members of the tech right and conservative elite have a disturbing affinity for J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Lord of the Rings." While Tolkien's beloved fantasy trilogy is widely regarded as a masterpiece of world literature, its themes are being misinterpreted by those who claim to be its proponents.
For example, Elon Musk recently posted on his platform X that the peaceful hobbits from Middle-earth were able to live idyllic lives in the Shire due to the protection provided by the "hard men" of Gondor. This twisted reading of Tolkien's work has been echoed by other prominent figures, including a Department of Homeland Security recruitment ad that used Merry's dialogue to promote the ICE agency.
The problem with this interpretation is that it ignores the fundamental message of "The Lord of the Rings." Tolkien's trilogy is not about the power and strength of men; it is about the corrupting influence of power and the necessity of death. The gentle, peaceful hobbits are able to resist the temptation of the One Ring because they are unambitious and content with their simple lives.
In reality, the solution to the darkness in Middle-earth lies not in consolidating one's power or hardening oneself against weakness but in embracing mortality as a gift. Tolkien himself wrote that death is "The Gift of Men," which gives human life its shape and meaning. Elves, who are naturally immortal, are corrupted by their attempt to become mortal like humans.
This fundamental misunderstanding of Tolkien's work has far-reaching implications for those who claim to be its proponents. It suggests that they are more concerned with power and control than with wisdom and humility. As the author notes, this is precisely what happens when powerful people ignore the counsel of those they respect and conclude that the only way to serve the world is by chasing power for themselves.
In "The Lord of the Rings," Saruman the wizard illustrates this tragic fall from wisdom. His willingness to pursue power and control ultimately leads him to invade the Shire, highlighting the dangers of unchecked ambition and the importance of humility in leadership.
The misreading of Tolkien's allegory serves as a stark reminder that some individuals are more interested in advancing their own interests than in understanding the deeper truths of literature. As we navigate the complexities of our world, it is essential to approach great works like "The Lord of the Rings" with nuance and critical thinking, rather than relying on superficial or self-serving interpretations.
In recent years, it has become increasingly clear that some members of the tech right and conservative elite have a disturbing affinity for J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Lord of the Rings." While Tolkien's beloved fantasy trilogy is widely regarded as a masterpiece of world literature, its themes are being misinterpreted by those who claim to be its proponents.
For example, Elon Musk recently posted on his platform X that the peaceful hobbits from Middle-earth were able to live idyllic lives in the Shire due to the protection provided by the "hard men" of Gondor. This twisted reading of Tolkien's work has been echoed by other prominent figures, including a Department of Homeland Security recruitment ad that used Merry's dialogue to promote the ICE agency.
The problem with this interpretation is that it ignores the fundamental message of "The Lord of the Rings." Tolkien's trilogy is not about the power and strength of men; it is about the corrupting influence of power and the necessity of death. The gentle, peaceful hobbits are able to resist the temptation of the One Ring because they are unambitious and content with their simple lives.
In reality, the solution to the darkness in Middle-earth lies not in consolidating one's power or hardening oneself against weakness but in embracing mortality as a gift. Tolkien himself wrote that death is "The Gift of Men," which gives human life its shape and meaning. Elves, who are naturally immortal, are corrupted by their attempt to become mortal like humans.
This fundamental misunderstanding of Tolkien's work has far-reaching implications for those who claim to be its proponents. It suggests that they are more concerned with power and control than with wisdom and humility. As the author notes, this is precisely what happens when powerful people ignore the counsel of those they respect and conclude that the only way to serve the world is by chasing power for themselves.
In "The Lord of the Rings," Saruman the wizard illustrates this tragic fall from wisdom. His willingness to pursue power and control ultimately leads him to invade the Shire, highlighting the dangers of unchecked ambition and the importance of humility in leadership.
The misreading of Tolkien's allegory serves as a stark reminder that some individuals are more interested in advancing their own interests than in understanding the deeper truths of literature. As we navigate the complexities of our world, it is essential to approach great works like "The Lord of the Rings" with nuance and critical thinking, rather than relying on superficial or self-serving interpretations.
... I mean, think about it - if power corrupts even someone like Saruman who was supposed to be a good guy, what does that say about us? It makes me wonder if we're all just trying to gain control over each other instead of working together 
. Like, who needs that much power in their life, right? And what's up with all these people using Merry's dialogue to promote ICE? It's like they think the Shire is some kind of fantasy version of Mexico 
. Newsflash: it's not about being hard or soft, it's about understanding the danger of power and embracing mortality. Those hobbits may be peaceful, but they're also wise and humble. What's wrong with that? 
Anyway, I'm gonna go listen to some Billie Eilish now... at least she doesn't confuse me with her lyrics 
. And Merry's dialogue in that ICE ad? Super misleading! Tolkien's whole point is that power corrupts, not that we need to be super tough to resist darkness 
. It's all about balance and humility, dude. Saruman's character is like the ultimate warning against unchecked ambition 
. Anyway, I think it's time for these right-wing folks to get their literary priorities straight 
