What a pity Bilbo did not stab the vile creature, when he…
““What a pity Bilbo did not stab the vile creature, when he had a chance! Pity? It was Pity that stayed his hand. Pity, and Mercy: not to strike without need. I do not feel any pity for Gollum. He deserves death. Deserves death! I daresay he does. Many that live deserve death. And some die that deserve life. Can you give that to them? Then be not too eager to deal out death in the name of justice, fearing for your own safety. Even the 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.
Gollum reflects on the tension between mercy and justice, warning against rash judgments and the limits of foresight.
In simple terms: Mercy vs justice, beware of hasty punishment.
Key Takeaway
Consider compassion before acting.
Themes
ethics
justice
compassion
Mood
thoughtful
serious
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- courtroom decisions
- personal conflicts
- leadership choices
- policy making
Key Concepts
moral philosophy
consequentialism
human fallibility
Questions to Reflect On
- When have you judged too quickly?
- How can mercy guide justice?
A Different Perspective
Even the wise cannot predict all outcomes, so caution is needed.