August 3, 2002

Gandalf Doesn't Care?
Aiglos

Annatar, how can you say that Gandalf doesn't care? Gandalf does not carry the Ring into Mordor for several reasons: he is needed to coordinate the defense of the West against Sauron's forces, allowing Sauron's attention to be diverted away from the Ringbearer; it is foretold that the 'Halfling' shall carry the Ring; and because Gandalf knows that the desire for the Ring could corrupt him, as it did to Saruman. If Gandalf didn't care about Middle-Earth, then why does he bring warning to Rohan and Minas Tirith that they are about to be assaulted? Why doesn't he just abandon Frodo and Sam on Mount Doom if he doesn't care? If Gandalf doesn't care, why doesn't he flee to Valinor at the first sign of the return of Sauron? Finally, if Gandalf doesn't care, then why does he ride with the Host of the West to the very Gate of Mordor? Isn't that a little 'risky?' Annatar, stop trying to be different and start thinking about what you are saying!