Kaleb Millan’s Reviews > The Two Towers > Status Update

Adored the section where Sam and Frodo sit in the darkness of some crack in the wall in Mordor, thinking of the stories that would be told about them in the future. It felt almost like a fourth wall break! In their friendship they found some joy in the ocean of darkness that is Mordor.

Ending on a cliffhanger at end of Shelob’s Lair. Will finish this volume with the final chapter, The Choices of Master Samwise!

Gollum has become one of my favorite characters. He reminds me of the wretched state of man when fully given over to his own wicked desires. Anyway, Frodo has almost befriended the Smeagol side of Gollum, appreciative of his guidance, and also out of pity. In Gollum there are redeeming qualities (the Sméagol side), but the tragedy is that he is dominated by the Gollum side and might even be unaware of it.

It’s hilarious how Sam lets Frodo and Faramir discuss things, but the moment Faramir brings up Galadriel, the biggest fan of elves Sam goes on a rant about how wonderful she is, then spills the beans about Boromir!

I love the little reminder of beauty on the outskirts of Mordor, which cheers Frodo up. I think of Californian pine forests but lower altitude. I love that the Gondorians are excited to hear about Boromir and dress like rangers (green & brown with cloaks and masks), like Aragorn. It’s also cool how ppl from the Far South, Harad, are coming in. Makes the world feel even bigger, as Harad is barely even on the map.

The description of the land outside the black gate and the fear but bravery of the ring bearer is powerful. The courage of Frodo, and little Halfling from the Shire to press on in the face of pure darkness and wretchedness is inspiring. His resolve reminds me of the peace one has when full of conviction.

Gandalf as a Christ figure is clear in “The Voice of Saruman” chapter. He even says he is no longer Gandalf the Grey, but Gandalf the White who has come back from death. He sees through the spell of the wretched Saruman and offers him a chance to redeem himself, and Saruman freely rejects this offer. Gandalf does not hate Saruman but pities him for his hatred. He commands that his staff be broken and it breaks.