Edited and Finalized: J.R.R. Tolkien and Humanity's Ultimate Fulfillment
Many artists and authors struggle to take the vision in their head and transfer it onto paper. Either their skill level gets in the way, they can’t quite translate their thoughts to reality, or the creation has a mind of its own and takes an unexpected direction. Likewise, creators struggle to finish their projects when they are unsatisfied with the current state. In his short story “Leaf by Niggle,” J.R.R. Tolkien illustrates this struggle while also adding a greater depth to it. The main character, Niggle, is a painter who has a grand vision for his largest painting but can never seem to finish it to his satisfaction. As a result of his obsession with it, he fails to use his gifts for the benefit of others and forgets to prepare for his quickly approaching “journey.” When he finally takes the long-dreaded journey, however, he finds his vision for his painting fulfilled in reality (109-110). J.R.R. Tolkien’s narrative appeals greatly to creators, and even more so to Christians. Tolk...