Much too Grand of a Story for Us Now
Humans have always been fascinated by epic tales of heroes, quests and grand battles. From ancient mythology to modern-day blockbusters, we love stories that transport us to far-off lands, introduce us to larger-than-life characters, and feed our imaginations with adventure and romance. However, there are times when a story is just too grand for us to comprehend or appreciate.
One example of a much too grand story is J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy. The epic saga follows the journey of hobbit Frodo Baggins and his companions as they try to destroy the One Ring, a powerful artifact created by the dark lord Sauron. The story is set in the fictional world of Middle-earth, which is home to elves, dwarves, orcs, and other mythical creatures. "The Lord of the Rings" is often considered one of the greatest literary works of the 20th century, with its intricate world-building, rich character development and themes of friendship, sacrifice, and courage.
However, while the story has captured the hearts of millions of readers and viewers worldwide, it is undeniable that it is a daunting tale to undertake. With over 1,000 pages in the trilogy alone, it is a story that requires a significant investment of time and energy. The world-building is incredibly detailed, with various languages, histories, and cultures to keep track of. The themes are heavy and complex, dealing with issues such as war, power, and corruption.
Moreover, the story is not always easy to read. Tolkien's writing style is dense, with long descriptions, archaic language, and a slow pace. The story moves slowly at times, with lengthy sections devoted to world-building and character development. While this may be enjoyable for some readers, it can be frustrating for others who prefer a more fast-paced plot.
The story's scope is also a challenge to grasp. "The Lord of the Rings" is a multi-layered tale, with several plotlines and a vast cast of characters. The story spans multiple continents, covers centuries of history, and involves dozens of different factions. Keeping track of all these elements can be difficult, especially for those unfamiliar with the fantasy genre.
Another much too grand story is Homer's "The Odyssey." This epic poem tells the story of Odysseus, a Greek hero who embarks on a perilous journey home after fighting in the Trojan War. Along the way, he encounters monsters, temptresses, and various other obstacles, all while trying to reunite with his wife and son.
"The Odyssey" is a classic example of epic poetry, with its use of grandiose language, heroic themes, and larger-than-life characters. However, it is also a story that can be overwhelming for modern readers. The language is archaic, and the poem's structure is complex, with numerous digressions, flashbacks, and interluding narratives. The poem is also filled with allusions to Greek mythology and history, which can be confusing for those unfamiliar with the subject.
Furthermore, the poem's values can be difficult to reconcile with modern sensibilities. The treatment of women in the poem is often criticized, with female characters portrayed as either temptresses or subservient. Other issues, such as the glorification of war and violence, also raise ethical concerns.
While both "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Odyssey" are undoubtedly grand and impressive stories, they can also be challenging to engage with. This is not to say that they are not worth reading or watching. Unlike other much too grand stories that are purely ornamental, these works offer deep insights into human nature and the complexities of the world we inhabit. However, they require a level of investment and patience that not everyone is willing or able to give.
Fortunately, there are alternative ways to experience these stories. Adaptations, such as movies and TV shows, can provide a more accessible entry point into the world of Middle-earth or Ancient Greece. These adaptations, while not always true to the source material, can provide a summary of the main plotlines, introduce us to the characters, and offer a glimpse into the wider world.
In conclusion, much too grand stories can be awe-inspiring and captivating, but they can also be overwhelming and difficult to appreciate. These works require a significant investment of time, energy, and attention, which may not be feasible for everyone. Nevertheless, they remain important cultural artifacts that offer insight into the human condition and the power of storytelling. For those willing and able to engage with them, they offer a wealth of rewards. For others, there are always alternative ways to experience these stories that can still provide enjoyment and entertainment.