The Tragedy of Smeagle

Like Bilbo, I too pity Gollum. His is, perhaps, one of the most tragic stories within the realm of Middle Earth. However, it’s interesting to hear what could have been–especially from the words of J. R. R. Tolkien himself:

I Cann’t Goodbye

Everyone has something that they’re not good at. Maybe they have two left feet when it comes to dancing. Maybe their voice cracks when they try to sing tenor. Or maybe, they have fingers made out of butter and can’t catch a football. One of the things that it feels like I’m horrible at, is goodbyeing.

I wish I was joking, for I have created many awkward situations, involving staring, silence, mumbled words, and hasty retreats. I, who call myself a wordsmith, seam to stubble and act like an oaf, when it comes to saying the words to end a conversation. I can start a conversation with ease. Greet with a jolly good handshake or hug, but when it comes to goodbyeing . . .