In J.R.R. Tolkien's works, the presence of dragons symbolizes the essence of adventure and the challenges that characters face. Dragons represent not just physical threats, but also the emotional and moral struggles that come with embarking on a quest. In a story devoid of significant challenges, the journey lacks excitement and depth. This viewpoint underscores how critical obstacles are to storytelling, enriching the narrative and the characters' experiences.

Tolkien believed that true adventures are defined by the battles and trials one encounters along the way. Without dragons, emblematic of formidable foes or daunting tasks, the tales would fail to resonate or captivate audiences. His view encourages readers to embrace challenges as integral to any adventure, positing that overcoming such hurdles creates meaningful stories worth sharing.