But this is terrible!’ cried Frodo. ‘Far worse than the…
““But this is terrible!’ cried Frodo. ‘Far worse than the worst that I imagined from your hints and warnings. O Gandalf, best of friends, what am I to do? For now I am really afraid. What am I to do? What a pity that Bilbo did not stab that vile creature, when he had a chance!’ ‘Pity? It was Pity that stayed his hand. Pity, and Mercy: not to strike without need. And he has been well rewarded, Frodo. Be sure that he took so little hurt from the evil, and escaped in the end, because he began his ownership of the Ring so. With Pity.’ ‘I am sorry,’ said Frodo. ‘But I am frightened; and I do not feel any pity for Gollum.’ ‘You have not seen him,’ Gandalf broke in. ‘No, and I don’t want to,’ said Frodo. I can’t understand you. Do you mean to say that you, and the Elves, have let him live on after all those horrible deeds? Now at any rate he is as bad as an Orc, and just an enemy. He deserves death.’ ‘Deserves it! I daresay he does. Many that live deserve death. And some that die deserve life. Can you give it to them? Then do not be too eager to deal out death in judgement. For even the very wise cannot see all ends.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Compassion and restraint are vital even toward those who seem irredeemable; mercy can be wiser than vengeance.
In simple terms: Show mercy instead of seeking revenge.
Key Takeaway
Choose empathy over retribution.
Themes
morality
compassion
justice
Mood
thoughtful
serious
Type
philosophical
literary
When to use this quote
- conflict resolution
- leadership
- personal ethics
- judgment
Key Concepts
ethical dilemma
redemption
power of mercy
Questions to Reflect On
- When is it appropriate to show mercy?
- What are the costs of unforgiving justice?
A Different Perspective
Mercy may be seen as weakness, risking safety.