A Misguided Nostalgia: Musk, Trump and Tolkien

J.R.R. Tolkien's enduring stories, rich with complex characters, legendary lore, and imaginative worlds, have become a cornerstone of 'geek culture' since they first enchanted readers in the 1950s.

His mythical world of Middle-earth, populated by elves, dwarves, and various creatures, has often been revered as an epitome of narratives that delineate the lines between Good and Evil with clarity. This fantasy realm, however, has been somewhat misused in contemporary political discourse.

Tolkien's Quotes Misused in Modern Politics

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has recently used references from Tolkien's universe in its communications, notably in efforts by Immigration and Customs Enforcement. One such instance was a post quoting a character from the series to seemingly draw a parallel with current immigration issues.

Elon Musk, defending a controversial far-right figure, likened this situation to the peace hobbits enjoy, shielded by valiant Gondor warriors. The remark, however, distorts Tolkien's narrative as Gondor, during the series' timeline, is depicted as vulnerable and failing due to poor leadership.

Misinterpretation and Cultural Appropriation

Trump's administration has employed pop culture icons to attempt to resonate with contemporary audiences, albeit sometimes missing the essence. This strategy often clashes with the fundamentally anti-oppressive themes embedded in Tolkien's works.

Tolkien enthusiasts, including scholars, express dismay at these misconstruals, arguing that the narratives are far more than surface-level tales. They highlight the moral depth in Tolkien's opposition to dictatorship, often represented through subtle storylines.

The Ironies of Tolkien’s Conservatism

Despite being a conservative and a devout Catholic, Tolkien despised authoritarianism, even expressing this in a letter during World War II. While his personal beliefs included controversial views, such as his support for Franco, he fervently wrote against Nazism.

To read Tolkien as endorsing the tactics of modern authoritarian institutions is to overlook the underlying opposition to tyranny found throughout his stories.

A Caution Against Historical Misuse

Attempts to draw Tolkien into modern political arenas often result in reductive interpretations that miss the nuanced critiques of power and leadership in his works. The true teachings within Middle-earth caution against the usurpation and distortion of tales for personal or political gain.