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Family Quote by J.R.R. Tolkien

“It was often said (in other families) that long ago one of the Took ancestors must have taken a fairy wife. That was, of course, absurd, but certainly there was still something not entirely hobbitlike about them, and once in a while members of the Took-clan would go and have adventures. They…” quote by J.R.R. Tolkien
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““It was often said (in other families) that long ago one of the Took ancestors must have taken a fairy wife. That was, of course, absurd, but certainly there was still something not entirely hobbitlike about them, and once in a while members of the Took-clan would go and have adventures. They discreetly disappeared, and the family hushed it up; but the fact remained that the Tooks were not as respectable as the Bagginses, though they were undoubtedly richer.””

J.R.R. Tolkien

About This Quote

Source Book: The Fellowship of the Ring, 1954

The Tooks, though wealthy, are seen as less respectable due to their adventurous, unconventional nature, contrasting with the Bagginses’ conventional respectability.

In simple terms: Tooks are rich but viewed as odd and less respectable.

Key Takeaway

Embrace individuality over conformity.

Themes

family adventure class respectability heritage

Mood

thoughtful analytical

Type

literary character study

When to use this quote

  • family gatherings
  • career choices
  • social circles
  • personal branding

Key Concepts

social perception wealth vs reputation individualism

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does family reputation affect personal choices?
  • Can wealth compensate for social stigma?
A Different Perspective

Not all wealth brings respect; reputation matters.

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