[Bêthberry]

We've been focussing on this "gap' idea that Hobbit II would be a bridge over the troubled waters between TH proper and LotR. But is that the only possible story thread available?

I wouldn't wonder if another scenario would be to consider the story and plight of Gollem. His backstory is ripe for taking on by any standard of contemporary analysis into what makes a villain/criminal/petty thief/gang member.

Gollem's background has all the essential credentials: his branch of Hobbits was run by his grandmother. It was a matriarchy apparently, which means that Smeagol lacked the all-essential male role model. His moma ran the roost and he had no incentive to make that crucial jump into manhood but remained fixated at the adolescent stage. Hence his easy addiction to the Ring and pre-occupation with games (well, riddle games at least) and fishing. A Huck Finn gone baaad. Economic problems aplenty, too.

It would really pull on the ole heart strings and contemporary social mores to provide a legitimate exploration of what makes a Gollem. It could also make Bilbo even more important, because then we would understand how very essential he is to Frodo's success--without whom, etc etc.