Original artwork, not a still
The Two Towers · 1954
Where there's life there's hope, as my Gaffer used to say; and need of vittles, as he mostways used to add.
Behind the line
What it means
Our interpretation.
Hope and a hot meal in one breath: Sam's proverb is cheerful common sense from a gardener who has followed his master into the worst place in Middle-earth. The Gaffer's tacked-on codicil is the joke, and the point, since hope runs on food and rest as much as on courage. It is one of the most quoted lines in The Two Towers, handed to anyone who needs encouragement and a sandwich.
Context reviewed
In context
Spoilers for The Two TowersShow the scene
Book Four, chapter 7, "Journey to the Cross-roads". Frodo and Sam have left Faramir and his men behind and are being led by Gollum toward Mordor by a secret way. Frodo, worn down and despairing, remarks that he is afraid the journey is drawing to its end. Sam answers with a saying of his father, Hamfast Gamgee, the Gaffer: where there's life there's hope, and the Gaffer always added that you need vittles too. Sam then urges Frodo to eat something and get some sleep.
Sources (2)
- LitCharts: The Two Towers, Samwise Gamgee quotesQuote list, Book 4, Chapter 7Reference checked
- Tolkien Gateway: The Taming of SméagolSummaryReference checked
Context reviewed
