Topic: Tolkien

Bilbo Baggins is presented as a superior model for modern life compared to the traditional "Luke Skywalker" hero. Rather than defeating a primary villain, Bilbo is swept up by history and simply does his best in small, moment-to-moment situations. This "Hobbit" approach emphasizes that even the smallest individuals can change the course of history through their immediate choices.

Bilbo's decision to spare Gollum's life is the pivotal moment that eventually allows for the destruction of the One Ring, demonstrating the "butterfly effect" of small moral choices. This suggests that individual activism should focus on one's immediate sphere of influence rather than trying to single-handedly defeat macro-level "Saurons." Success is found in "Rivendelling" one's own life and maintaining personal integrity.

J.R.R. Tolkien’s creation myth in The Silmarillion describes the character Morgoth introducing discordant notes into the "psalm of creation." Tolkien’s Catholic worldview suggests that the creator God (Iluvatar) uses this discord to ultimately make creation better and more complete. This mythological framework is applied to modern global crises, suggesting that even "bad" parts of the cycle are proceeding as intended on a higher level of reality.