“I should like to save the Shire, if I could – though there have been times when I thought the inhabitants too stupid and dull for words, and have felt that an earthquake or an invasion of dragons might be good for them.”
- 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
“I should like to save the Shire, if I could – though there have been times when I thought the inhabitants too stupid and dull for words, and have felt that an earthquake or an invasion of dragons might be good for them.”
Explanation
This quote reveals a complex mixture of affection and frustration with the Shire and its inhabitants. The speaker expresses a desire to protect and preserve the Shire, but at the same time, they feel a certain disillusionment with its people, who seem too complacent or naive to appreciate the beauty and significance of their own peaceful way of life. The idea of an “earthquake or an invasion of dragons” represents a yearning for disruption, a way to awaken the inhabitants from their insularity and force them to see the larger world beyond their idyllic, quiet existence. This reflects a common theme in Tolkien’s works: the tension between peace and conflict, and how sometimes it takes an external force to force growth or awareness.
Tolkien, who spent much of his life deeply embedded in the world of academia and military service, understood the balance between preserving tradition and recognizing the need for change or growth. The Shire, with its idyllic peace, is often contrasted with the larger, more chaotic world outside. Tolkien himself might have seen this tension in his own life, where the comforts of the familiar were always at odds with the challenges and struggles of the world beyond. This quote serves as a reminder that while we may love and wish to protect the things we hold dear, there are times when their stagnation or narrow-mindedness can become frustrating, and change—whether welcome or not—can be necessary for progress.
In a modern context, this quote resonates with anyone who has experienced frustration with the status quo or feels that the ordinary life around them is too comfortable, unambitious, or unaware of larger issues. Whether it’s the inertia of society, workplace environments, or personal relationships, sometimes people long for a disruption—a moment that will shake things up and force others to see things differently. It also serves as a reminder that growth often comes through challenges, and while we might not actively seek conflict, there are times when disruption can lead to the kind of awakening that opens new opportunities for growth, understanding, and change.
