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Carolyn McBride 🏳️‍🌈🇨🇦's avatar

I agree, Colbert is under-utilized, and frequently underestimated. He's wicked smart. The fact that he's a Tolkien fan is another point in his favor too. *grin*

Those chapters he talks about are among my favorites too, and likely for the same reasons. They bring a peace to our harried, jangling souls. I live in the woods, and when I have to go to town for supplies or appointments, I feel a physical ache much like Frodo aches for his home, so I get it.

I do what I can to reproduce the spirit of The Shire on my land. Despite sandy soil, a million ants, almost no extra budget - but I have patience, and knowledge, and a powerful yearning for a bit of my own Utopia. So I do what I can.

I constantly work to improve the soil, grow my own food, and flowers for the pollinators. I don't use loud, earth-wrenching tools. I don't smoke pipweed, but like Frodo, my idea of a good time is under a tree with a good book.

I think that each of us can reproduce something of The Shire in our ways. At least I hope we can. I think it's becoming more and more of an urgent need as the rest of the world around us goes to Mordor in a hand cart - if you know what I mean.

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Elle Griffin's avatar

I love this line: "I think that each of us can reproduce something of The Shire in our ways."

I so agree!!!!!

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Luke Ferris's avatar

Carolyn, it sounds like you’re making a little Bag End of your own 😁 It sounds heavenly.

There’s an interesting quotation in the book where Faramir compliments The Shire because gardeners are valued members of society.

“The Shire must truly be a great realm, Master Gamgee, where gardeners are held in high honor.”

Even the Captain of Gondor respects the idea of a country that prioritizes taking care of the land. It’s another glimpse into Tolkien’s love of nature.

Thanks for your thoughts, Carolyn!

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