Letter #5: G.B. Smith
On a somber August day in 1916, amidst the devastating battles of the Somme, J.R.R. Tolkien pens a deeply introspective letter to his friend Geoffrey Bache Smith. Dated August 12, this letter not only reveals Tolkien’s personal grief but also echoes the philosophical musings that later permeate his literary works. This particular letter, rich with personal and emotional detail, stands out as a poignant reflection of the impact that World War I had on Tolkien's views and future writings.
Geoffrey Smith, along with Rob Gilson, Christopher Wiseman, and Tolkien himself, formed the T.C.B.S (Tea Club and Barrovian Society) during their time at King Edward’s School in Birmingham. This group, thriving on intellectual and creative pursuits, served as a crucial emotional anchor for Tolkien, providing not just mental stimulation but also much-needed emotional support during tumultuous times. The death of Rob Gilson, a core member of this tight-knit group and a focal point of this letter, casts a long shadow over Tolkien’s evolving thoughts on life, destiny, and the nature of true heroism. Tolkien’s reflections on Gilson, who was lost on the first day of the Somme Offensive, reveal a mix of profound respect and deep sorrow: “I cannot get away from the conclusion that it was wrong to confound the greatness which Rob has won with the greatness which he himself doubted.” Here, Tolkien distinguishes between the traditional accolades of heroism and the deeper, personal valor evident in the sacrifices made by individuals like Gilson. This distinction marks a significant evolution in his understanding of greatness, acknowledging the often-overlooked intrinsic qualities of courage and steadfastness.
The impact of the war on the ideals and bonds of the T.C.B.S. is profound and disheartening. Tolkien notes, “So far my chief impression is that something has gone crack.” This metaphor not only captures the personal impact of the war but also highlights the fragmentation within the group itself. Despite the erosion of their youthful optimism, Tolkien clings to a thread of hope that the principles they once championed might still be realized, albeit in a form transformed by their harrowing experiences. Throughout the letter, Tolkien’s emotional state is characterized by a blend of despair and resilience. He grapples with the tension between divine providence and the randomness of war, striving to reconcile his deep-seated religious beliefs with the brutal realities he faces daily. These musings are not mere academic exercises; they are a struggle to find meaning and order in a world that seems increasingly chaotic and unforgiving.
In the closing paragraphs of his letter, Tolkien articulates a deep longing for reunion with his friends, highlighting his sense of incompleteness and isolation—not just physically but spiritually. Despite the distance and despair, he writes with an underlying belief that the foundational values of the T.C.B.S.—truth, beauty, and shared human experience—retain their importance, even in the bleakest circumstances. These ideals, though seemingly distant, still provide a moral compass for navigating the complexities of war. As Tolkien contemplates the future, he voices a poignant desire to reconnect with his surviving friends, hoping such a reunion might restore some semblance of the camaraderie and intellectual vibrancy that the T.C.B.S. once provided. This longing for connection underscores the profound impact that the group has had on him—not just as a source of intellectual or creative stimulation but as a crucial emotional lifeline in times of immense personal challenge.
This letter from Tolkien offers more than a historical insight; it serves as a testament to the enduring power of friendship and shared ideals. The themes Tolkien grapples with—greatness, sacrifice, destiny, and community—find rich expression in his later works, particularly in the nuanced relationships and moral complexities depicted in Middle-earth. These reflections not only deepen our understanding of Tolkien as a writer but also highlight the resilience of the human spirit in the face of overwhelming adversity.
As we read Tolkien’s words today, we can reflect on our own struggles and the communities we forge along the way. His wartime correspondence, especially his reflections on the T.C.B.S., illuminates the profound impact that fellowship and shared purpose can have, guiding even the most unlikely heroes through the darkest times. Through his profound sorrow and steadfast hope, Tolkien's letter resonates as a powerful reminder of the strength found in unity and shared conviction, echoing through generations and across literary landscapes.