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But he desired rather to subdue to his will both Elves and…

“But he desired rather to subdue to his will both Elves and Men, envying the gifts with which Ilúvatar promised to endow them; and he wished himself to have subjects and servants, and to be called Lord, and to be a master over other wills.” quote by J.R.R. Tolkien
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““But he desired rather to subdue to his will both Elves and Men, envying the gifts with which Ilúvatar promised to endow them; and he wished himself to have subjects and servants, and to be called Lord, and to be a master over other wills.””

J.R.R. Tolkien

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

A being seeks power over others, craving control and dominance, driven by envy of divine gifts.

In simple terms: Desire for power and control over others.

Key Takeaway

Beware the lure of domination.

Themes

power envy control authority hubris

Mood

cautionary reflective

Type

moral philosophical

When to use this quote

  • leadership
  • politics
  • personal ambition
  • ethical decision making

Key Concepts

theocracy free will divine gifts political ambition

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you value influence over freedom?
  • How does envy shape your goals?
A Different Perspective

Power can corrupt and enslave both ruler and subjects.

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