“Go not to the Elves for counsel, for they will say both no and yes.”
- January 3, 1892 – September 2, 1973
- Born in the Orange Free State (British)
- Author, linguist
- Wrote The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings, and built the foundations of modern fantasy literature
Quote
“Go not to the Elves for counsel, for they will say both no and yes.”
Explanation
This quote humorously points to the elusive nature of Elvish wisdom. Elves in Tolkien’s works are often portrayed as ancient, wise, and deeply connected to the mysteries of the world, but their advice is not always straightforward or easy to interpret. The statement that they will say both “no” and “yes” reflects the ambiguity and complexity of their perspectives. Elves understand the nuances of decisions and consequences, and their answers often reflect the multifaceted nature of reality, where every choice may have both positive and negative outcomes. Thus, their counsel is not for those seeking clear-cut answers but for those who can appreciate complexity and reflection.
Tolkien, who was deeply influenced by his studies in language, mythology, and philology, imbued his Elvish characters with a deep sense of moral and philosophical understanding, often leading them to view situations through a lens of moral ambiguity. The Elves’ hesitancy to give simple advice reflects Tolkien’s own view of wisdom as something that cannot be easily distilled into black-and-white answers. Instead, wisdom often comes with a recognition of the consequences of decisions, requiring careful thought rather than hasty action.
In modern times, this quote speaks to the difficulty of finding simple answers in a world full of complexity. Whether in personal decisions, politics, or philosophy, wisdom often comes in the form of nuanced advice that can feel contradictory or unclear. For example, a mentor or advisor may offer guidance that is both encouraging and cautionary, reflecting the competing interests or potential outcomes involved. This serves as a reminder that advice—especially from those with deep knowledge or experience—may not always give us a clear, definitive path but rather invites us to consider all angles before making a decision.
