Book I - Chapter 2 - The Shadow of the Past

[doug*platypus]

Easily my favourite chapter in the whole LOTR. I love the atmosphere of the scene, in Bag End with Gandalf and Frodo sitting and talking the day away. The history of Tolkien's Middle-Earth is revealed as grand and complete, and there are even some very dramatic moments when the nature of the Ring becomes apparent. Some of my favourite quotes, too.

"I cannot read the fiery letters," said Frodo in a quavering voice.

Eerie stuff. The whole schtick with Sam being hauled in by Gandalf is great, too. I like the way that you can sometimes hear him outside the window on a lovely Shire day cutting the grass. Makes it seem real, and the peace of The Shire contrasts nicely with the dark things that Gandalf is talking about.

I love the whole ancient wise master Gandalf instructing naive young pupil Frodo bit, too. The similar scene from Star Wars: A New Hope is also one of my faves, just thought I'd mention it.

Dead thread... reanimate!!! IT lives...