Children Quote by J.R.R. Tolkien
““As a lord was held for the strength of his body and stoutness of heart. Much lore he learned, and loved wisdom but fortune followed him in few desires; oft wrong and awry what he wrought turned; what he loved he lost, what he longed for he won not; and full friendship he found not easily, nor was lightly loved for his looks were sad. He was gloom-hearted, and glad seldom for the sundering sorrow that filled his youth... (On Turin Turambar - The Children of Hurin)””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Children of Húrin by J.R.R. Tolkien, 2007
A noble lord, praised for physical strength and courage, learns much but suffers misfortune, loses loved ones, and struggles to find true friendship, leading to a gloomy, sorrowful youth.
In simple terms: A strong man faces loss and loneliness despite his virtues.
Key Takeaway
Accept that strength alone cannot guarantee happiness.
Themes
loss
loneliness
strength
fate
friendship
Mood
melancholy
reflective
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- War
- personal ambition
- search for companionship
- comingaling with grief
Key Concepts
Tragic heroism
theodicy
human frailty
Questions to Reflect On
- What can a powerful person do when fate is against them?
- How does sorrow shape a hero’s character?
A Different Perspective
His noble qualities are insufficient to overcome destiny’s harshness.
