The Addictive Ring - The Barrow-Downs Discussion Forum

***Mithadan*** · 05-30-2015, 09:01 AM

Symptomatically, Gollum's cravings for the Ring resemble addiction and withdrawal. However, I agree with Inziladun, that the Ring's attraction is far greater than any narcotic addiction.

Tolkien spent extended time in a military hospital at the end of World War I. It is likely that he was exposed there to others suffering from morphine addiction and withdrawal. I wonder if that experience colored his descriptions of Gollum?

05-30-2015, 09:01 AM	#6
*Mithadan* Spirit of Mist Join Date: Jul 2000 Location: Tol Eressea Posts: 3,397	Symptomatically, Gollum's cravings for the Ring resemble addiction and withdrawal. However, I agree with Inziladun, that the Ring's attraction is far greater than any narcotic addiction. Tolkien spent extended time in a military hospital at the end of World War I. It is likely that he was exposed there to others suffering from morphine addiction and withdrawal. I wonder if that experience colored his descriptions of Gollum? __________________ Beleriand, Beleriand, the borders of the Elven-land.

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