Would You Rather Live in the Shire or Rivendell as a Hobbit?

Introduction

Rivendell has long captured the hearts of many with its mystical beauty and tranquility. Since my first encounter with the mystical lands of Middle Earth in J.R.R. Tolkien's books, 'The Hobbit' and 'The Lord of the Rings,' the allure of stepping into Rivendell felt like an unrealized dream. However, practicalities and personal preferences may steer one's choice in a different direction.

Practical Living in Rivendell

Rivendell is undeniably a spectacular place, known for its tranquil beauty and the ethereal lives of the elves. The pace dictated by their immortality is quite different from the Hobbits' and humans' transient existence. Elven time would undoubtedly seem slow and leisurely, while to you, it may appear as too slow. This misalignment might create friction in daily life.

Your desire to find a way to operate in a manner consistent with your surroundings would be a challenge. The elves may perceive your urgency to act as wasteful, leading to a rift in understanding and communication. As a Hobbit, you would need to visit Rivendell occasionally, appreciating its splendor, but you might not want to reside there long-term.

The Ideal Home: The Shire

The Shire, on the other hand, presents a peaceful and harmonious haven, ideal for a Hobbit's lifestyle. Hobbits prioritize simple pleasures, such as tobacco, beer, and a bountiful harvest. These aspects of daily life align more closely with a Hobbit's desires, creating a sense of contentment and belonging.

After the removal of Saruman and other menacing forces, the Shire flourishes under the protection of Saruman's destruction and the guardianship of Bombadil and the Rangers. Here, you would be more comfortable among your own people, fulfilling the intrinsic bonds of friendship and community that are central to Hobbit society.

The Cultural and Environmental Factors

The cultural and environmental differences between Rivendell and Shire also play significant roles in making a choice. Rivendell, while beautiful, is filled with wisdom and power, but it is an elven dwelling. A Hobbit, despite the acceptance shown to Bilbo, would always feel like an outsider here. Moreover, the elves are leaving Middle Earth, and their culture and power are waning.

Living in Rivendell might also expose you to their introspective and melancholic feelings as they cling to memories of their glorious past. In contrast, the Shire remains a vibrant and living community, less burdened by the past and more focused on the present and future.

Conclusion

For a Hobbit like you, the Shire remains the ultimate choice. It offers a peaceful and harmonious environment, consistent with your lifestyle and values. While Rivendell may be stunning, its cultural and environmental factors may make it less suitable for long-term residence. The beauty and tranquility of the Shire will provide a sense of belonging and contentment, aligning well with your Hobbit nature.

So, if given the choice, you would likely choose to live in the Shire, experiencing its warmth and simplicity, far from the troubles of larger conflicts. It would be a place where you can thrive and live your life in peace.