End? No, the journey doesn't end here. Death is just another path, one that we all must take. The grey rain-curtain of this world rolls back, and all turns to silver glass, and then you see it. White shores, and beyond, a far green country under a swift sunrise. ― J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings
This quote by Tolkien offers a profound reflection on the nature of death and the continuation of existence beyond our physical lives. It challenges our perception of death as an end and instead presents it as a transition—a journey that everyone must undertake. The imagery of a grey rain-curtain rolling back symbolizes a veil lifting from our eyes, revealing a shining realm beyond the mortal world. The description of 'silver glass' signifies clarity and purity, hinting at a space of peace and renewal that lies ahead. The 'white shores' evoke feelings of serenity, purity, and a peaceful resting place, often associated with the afterlife in various mythologies. The promise of a 'far green country under a swift sunrise' suggests hope, renewal, and the promise of new beginnings in a different realm. Tolkien’s perspective encourages us to see death not as an end but as part of an ongoing journey—a passage into a larger, more timeless voyage that transcends physical existence. It instills a sense of comfort and anticipation, urging us to embrace the unknown with acceptance and hope. Recognizing that life's interruptions, including death, are phases of a broader continuum transforms fear into serenity. This perspective can inspire us to live more meaningfully, understanding that our legacies—our stories and souls—continue beyond what the eye can see, into the realms of the unknown that await us all.
