"End? No, the journey doesn't end here. Death is just another path. One that we all must take. The grey rain-curtain of this world rolls back, and all turns to silver glass... then you see it!"
Being together and seeing Return of the King live in the Royal Albert Hall, undoubtedly added layers of depth to the experience. In this episode, we explore themes that resonate not only within the world of Middle-earth but also within our own lives and the broader context of the world.
We discuss endings and life cycles, from the perspective of both the macrocosm of the trilogy but also the individuation journeys of our beloved characters. As Gandalf eloquently puts it, the journey doesn't truly end with death. He speaks to the cyclical nature of existence, where endings often mark the beginning of something new. In the macrocosm of the trilogy, we witness the culmination of the struggle against darkness and the ushering in of a new era of peace. However, this victory is not without sacrifice, emphasising the bittersweet reality of endings.
On an individual level, the characters' journeys mirror the process of individuation and personal growth. Each character undergoes trials and transformations, ultimately finding their place in the world and within themselves. From Frodo's burden of carrying the One Ring to Aragorn's acceptance of his destiny as the rightful king, these arcs reflect the complexities of the human experience and the paths we must navigate to find fulfilment and purpose.
The lighting of the Beacons of Gondor symbolises a beacon of hope amidst despair, a rallying call to unite against overwhelming odds. In the context of our discussion on contemporary issues such as the ongoing conflict in Palestine and our own activism, these moments resonate deeply. They serve as reminders of the power of hope in the face of adversity and the importance of collective action in striving for a better future.
If you'd love to geek out with us, reach out to fortheshire.pod@gmail.com or follow us on @fortheshire.pod on Instagram.
Co-hosted by Molly Davis and Libby Rose Waite.
Music by Steve Ernenwein, host and composter for The Dreams that Shape Us Podcast: