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It is grim reading’, he said. ‘I fear their end was cruel…

“It is grim reading’, he said. ‘I fear their end was cruel. Listen! We cannot get out. We cannot get out. They have taken the Bridge and second hall... . Then there are four lines smeared so that I can only read went 5 days ago. The last lines run: the pool is up to the wall at Westgate. The…” quote by J.R.R. Tolkien
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““It is grim reading’, he said. ‘I fear their end was cruel. Listen! We cannot get out. We cannot get out. They have taken the Bridge and second hall... . Then there are four lines smeared so that I can only read went 5 days ago. The last lines run: the pool is up to the wall at Westgate. The Watcher in the Water took Óin. We cannot get out. The end comes , and then drums, drums in the deep . I wonder what that means. The last thing written is in a trailing scrawl of elf-letters: they are coming. There is nothing more.’ Gandalf paused and stood in silent thought.””

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 character describes a desperate, cryptic scene involving a trapped group, ominous signs, and an impending threat.

In simple terms: A bleak, mysterious situation with looming danger.

Key Takeaway

Heed warnings and seek escape.

Themes

danger mystery desperation prophecy

Mood

tense foreboding

Type

literary mythic

When to use this quote

  • exploration of ancient ruins
  • survival in hostile environments
  • interpreting cryptic messages
  • preparing for battle
  • team decision‑making

Key Concepts

mythic storytelling foreshadowing symbolism

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does the “Bridge” symbolize?
  • How would you respond to a similar crisis?
A Different Perspective

Interpretation may vary; context is fictional.

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