The Lord of the Rigs

Over the past two weeks I have taken the opportunity to watch 'The Lord of the Rings' trilogy another time. Although my viewing experience was as gratifying as ever, I was somewhat amazed at the increase of growth and analytical maturity that I have undergone since my first viewing. This exponential personal growth has enabled me to deconstruct Tolkien's story to tease out its true meaning and relevance for the 21st Century.

The fundamental basis for the story is that the Ring of Power was ethically and legally the property of Sauron and was taken from him through legerdemain and ruthless violence by men of the West. The Ring, a thinly veiled reference to oil, was the coveted prize and sought by all. The men of the West, in their lust for it, were transformed from Smeagol into Gollum.

The Western civilization of Middle-earth spared no effort in marginalizing the rich, dignified, and ancient Orc culture. These oppressors from the West forced the Orcs to the far reaches of desperation by spurning diversity and multiculturalism. Orc self esteem was irreparably damaged by the Western imperialists, but they reached into the depths of their collective soul and determined to take a morally superior stand against oppressions of their economy, culture, and religion.

The actions of the men of the West created the violent activities among the Orcs and the greater the oppression the greater in number became the Orc insurgents. Even many highly educated Westerners, like Saruman, saw the evil for what it was and joined in the Orc's just cause.

I hope the depth of message in this brilliant literature cuts to the heart of modern Western man and that he repents of his oppressive, imperialistic, and evil ways to turn again to true compassion and diversity.