“Always after a defeat and a respite," says Gandalf, "the shadow takes another shape and grows again.""I wish it need not have happened in my time," says Frodo."So do I," says Gandalf, "and so do all who live to see such times. But that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.”
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Quote Analysis
In this quote from J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Lord of the Rings," Gandalf and Frodo lament the times of defeat and hardship that they must face. Gandalf recognizes that darkness and evil will always resurface after a defeat, but he also acknowledges that it is beyond their control to prevent these challenges from arising in their lifetime. Instead, Gandalf emphasizes the importance of focusing on the present moment and making the most of the time that is given to them. This quote highlights the themes of resilience, perseverance, and making the best of difficult circumstances in the face of adversity.
Finding Purpose in Challenging Times
In J.R.R. Tolkien's epic fantasy world of Middle-earth, characters like Gandalf and Frodo face immense challenges and darkness. This quote from Gandalf serves as a reminder that even in the face of defeat and adversity, the shadow will always take on new forms and continue to grow. This sentiment resonates in our modern world, where we too face challenges and uncertainty. Like Gandalf advises, we must focus on what we can control and decide how to use the time we are given, even in the face of difficult circumstances.
Example of Usage
In the epic novel "The Lord of the Rings" by J.R.R. Tolkien, Gandalf reflects on the inevitability of darkness and the importance of taking action in times of trouble. The quote serves as a reminder that it is up to individuals to make the most of the time they have.
Reflection Questions:
The above quote from J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Lord of the Rings" prompts us to ponder on our response to difficult times and challenges. It raises important questions about how we can make choices in the face of adversity. Reflect on the following questions to explore these themes:
- How do you typically respond to setbacks or challenges in life?
- What values or principles guide your decision-making during tough times?
- In what ways do you see yourself contributing to the reshaping of the "shadow" after a defeat?
- How do you envision making the most of the time that is given to you, despite the difficult circumstances around you?
- What strategies or actions can you take to remain resilient and hopeful in the face of adversity?
Similar quotes
“I wish it need not have happened in my time," said Frodo."So do I," said Gandalf, "and so do all who live to see such times. But that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.”
“So do all who live to see such times. But that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.”
“The incarnate angel of Tolkien’s mythology, Gandalf the Grey, said it well in a conversation with Frodo. “I wish it need not have happened in my time,” laments the young Hobbit. “So do I,” Gandalf replies, “and so do all who live to see such times. But that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.”
“All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given to us.”
“Then are we not to see the merry young hobbits again?" said Legolas."I did not say so," said Gandalf. "Who knows? Have patience. Go where you must go, and hope!”
“I am not going to tell you my name, not yet at any rate.' A queer half-knowing, half-humorous look came with a green flicker into his eyes. 'For one thing it would take a long while: my name is growing all the time, and I've lived a very long, long time; so my name is like a story. Real names tell you the story of things they belong to in my language, in the Old Entish as you might say. It is a lovely language, but it takes a very long time saying anything in it, because we do not say anything in it, unless it is worth taking a long time to say, and to listen to.”