July 21, 2002

Re: Invisibility of One Ring
Lily Bumbleroot of Haysend

I agree that although it is very difficult to control the invisibility power of the One Ring, I believe that it can be controlled by the wearer. However, you really have to be strong enough to do it (with the same level of power as Sauron or more). The key here is up to how much the One Ring will allow that wearer to control it - Tolkien clearly expressed in the books that although any wearer can wield the ring according to his "natural abilities", it was also made with Sauron's own self-will. Thus, I kind of get the feeling that Ring has a mind of its own, and that it is closely in-tune with Sauron's. Sauron created the Ring for the sole purpose of putting everything in Middle Earth under his dominion, so that all will submit to his will. Part of Sauron's self and "power" was transferred to the Ring, and thus it has it's dark and evil side - according to it's maker's design. The ring ultimately betrays the wearer to reveal itself to Sauron, since the One Ring desires to be found by Sauron to return to its true "master". Note that Sauron can wear the ring and not be invisible since he can fully control the power of the Ring. That is why Isildur was able to cut Sauron's hand with the Ring in it although Sauron was wearing the ring (he should be invisible, right?). But Sauron, by his pride and over-confidence, chose not to be invisible at that time, big mistake.

As for the nine wraiths, they have been enslaved by Sauron through the nine mortal rings which can be controlled by the One Ring. They became powerful via the rings (during the time when they were still mortal, and they were kings and leaders of Men) but they have been blinded by their greed and lust for power to realize that they've become part of Sauron's evil realm. And later on they faded into the dark world of Sauron, obeying his every command.

As for Bombadil not being affected by the Ring, I think that is because he is not "of the Middle Earth". He exists there and lives there, but he can isolate himself from it. I still couldn't find enough information from the books concerning his history, like where he really came from and who he is (is he a Valar or Maia in human form? I haven't read the Tom Bombadil book yet, am reading the Silmarillion now). He chose not to get involved in the Quest. He is just interested in his own territory in the forest. I like Tom a lot, so don't get me wrong here - but I think Jackson was right to exclude him from the movie. It's like he really was not part of the Quest. He did help the hobbits in the beginning, but Bombadil himself set his limits on the kind of help that he'll extend.

As for "Tolkien fans" who never read the book, that's ok with me. I also started out that way, but I realized I liked the movie so much I just had to get my hands on the real "meat". After finishing the trilogy, I started reading the Silmarillion, which tells where it all began, with specific details about most of the characters you read about in the trilogy. I'd like to encourage people to read the books, or buy the audio CDs if you're too lazy to read the thick books. It'll be worth it, I assure you! The movie is like treated water, in contrast to the books which are like high quality wine!

Sorry for the long article. I am just so excited to be able to express my thoughts with fellow fans. Can't wait for TTT movie, such a torture.

Lily Bumbleroot