Indeed in nothing is the power of the Dark Lord more clearly shown than in the estrangement that divides all those who still oppose him -J.R.R. Tolkien
The biopic Tolkien examines J.R.R. Tolkien’s affinity for languages and stories. Tolkien loved to study and create languages. He had a fascination with the texture and movement of language. But the richness of his words were only complete when he realized that the beauty of the language went beyond the auditory sense and beyond just the expressive nature of words. The beauty of language does not come from how it sounds but from its meaning, Edith tells Tolkien.
Language goes beyond assigning mere definition for identification. Language is meant as a unifying force of communication. It provides clarification for purposeful action. Language also provides deeper versions of emoting through expansive descriptors. But eloquence and refined words do not have impact without the meaning behind them.
Although Tolkien himself is known for disliking allegory and inference in his work; the movie showcases that life events greatly influenced his worldview and writings. His work reflected the journey and struggle he faced in life. He may never have acknowledged it himself, but we all place meaning on our language through the experiences life brings our way.
Language goes beyond just written or spoken word. We can express meaning through body language, through action or inaction, through photographs and movies, and through music. Whatever language we use, we are ascribing meaning that is interpreted by another.
So what meaning do we bring to the language we express to each other? What language do we use to express it? We should be careful to not use language idly or lazily. It should not be used in a manner meant to confuse or demean others. Jesus warned that even idle talk was evidence of deeper meaning:
“Either make the tree good and its fruit good, or make the tree bad and its fruit bad, for the tree is known by its fruit. You brood of vipers! How can you speak good, when you are evil? For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks. The good person out of his good treasure brings forth good, and the evil person out of his evil treasure brings forth evil. I tell you, on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak, for by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.”
Matthew 12:33-37
“I didn’t mean anything by it” is often a justification for destructive language that carries meaning that may or may not have been intended. I myself have needed to rein myself in from making comments that I may see as meant to be funny, but have resulted in bringing others down. Proverbs 18:21 says “Death and life are in the power of the tongue,
and those who love it will eat its fruits.” When King Solomon wrote this Proverb, he was not saying life and death are contained in the eloquence and usage of words. He was saying we can build up or tear down the life in others by the meaning we convey with our language.
Tolkien was told that it was meaning that gives language its beauty. Negative meaning however, can give language ugliness that taints its expressive nature. In today’s world there are so many expressions of hate and distrust being spoken in countless languages that it can be discouraging to speak affirmation and life. But God is love, and he calls us to speak the language of love to everyone. Love keeps no record of wrongs. Love is not a mathematical equation dependent upon hate to produce the proper level of output. So regardless of the language being spoken to you; remember to produce language that is affirming, uplifting, and meaningful.
Choose to speak life in your actions, words, expressions, and even thoughts toward others. You never know when speaking life might save a life.
God at the Boxoffice 