August 22, 2002

Re: Random Thoughts on the Maiar
Eriol

Hi everybody, I am a long-standing fan of Tolkien's work, having read the books at least once a year for some years and some of the more obscure ones as well. (I am sure knowledgeable fans recognize my name).

Anyway, regarding the whole matter of the role of Will in the action of the Ring, and whether Gandalf could see a person wearing the Ring: Bilbo was unconscious at the end of The Hobbit and wearing the Ring. Some may argue that his Will to hide stays on even when he is unconscious, but to me the idea of an unconscious Will is very weird. And of course Gandalf can't see him, since he is found only after he wakes up and takes off the Ring.

Best regards for all of you