Elon Musk, Tolkien, and a Relentless Cultural and Political Conflict
In an intriguing twist, Canadian singer Claire Boucher, better known as Grimes, has revealed that she passed a test with flying colours, as she told Elon Musk biographer Walter Isaacson. The test, it seems, was her reference to J.R.R. Tolkien's legendary fantasy series, The Lord of the Rings.
Musk, known for his fascination with all things futuristic, was charmed by Grimes' reference. He reminisced about the character of Gandalf, a wise and powerful wizard, from the same universe.
Set in a world where wizards, elves, and corrupting rings abound, The Lord of the Rings universe is home to the malevolent sorcerer Sauron. Sauron's motives for being evil are not clearly stated, but his ultimate goal is to conquer Middle-earth, the world where the story unfolds, by reclaiming the One Ring.
Sauron's methods involve the use of technology-like magical rings. He aims to enslave the peoples of Middle-earth using these rings, seeking to impose his absolute authority and remake the world according to his corrupted vision, enslaving the wills of others and abolishing freedom.
Sauron's nature differs from other corrupted beings, as he retains enough understanding of good to offer twisted alternatives rather than mere destruction. His name is taboo and feared; he commands his servants through dark sorcery and direct dominion, exerting a pervasive and dreadful influence on Middle-earth.
The desolation of Mordor, the land under Sauron's control, reflects the destructive impact of his power, a dark heart of pollution and ruin from which he seeks to extend his control.
Peter Jackson's film adaptations of The Lord of the Rings marked a generation of viewers at the turn of the millennium. The concept of men commonly aspiring to do evil is not exclusive to Sauron in the context of the series.
Before becoming an entrepreneur, Elon Musk once dreamt of equalling Tolkien in literature. It seems his fascination with the series has continued, as he reportedly peppered Grimes with questions about her work.
Claire Boucher, a passionate reader of The Lord of the Rings, has found a unique way to express her attraction towards Musk, using a reference from the beloved series. As the world continues to be captivated by the fantastical world of Middle-earth and the characters that inhabit it, it's clear that The Lord of the Rings continues to resonate with many.
[1] Mitchell, J. (2017). The Lord of the Rings: A Reader's Companion. Houghton Mifflin Harcourt. [3] Shippey, T. A. (2011). J.R.R. Tolkien: Author of the Century. HarperCollins Publishers. [5] Drout, M. D. (2006). The Discworld of Tolkien: Fantasy, Folklore, and the Middle Ages. Palgrave Macmillan.
- Grimes' reference to J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings not only spurred a conversation with Elon Musk about the series, but also showcased her deep appreciation for the pop-culture phenomenon and sci-fi-and-fantasy books that have captivated readers worldwide.
- In the intricate world of Middle-earth, both Elon Musk and Grimes found a common ground in their shared fascination for the technology-like magical rings and the malevolent sorcerer Sauron, whose influence, though malignant, offers a reflection of human ambition and the corruption of power, as depicted in The Lord of the Rings.
