Symbolic and Mythic Expression

Symbolic and Mythic Expression in the Works of J.R.R. Tolkien

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"he is bound with the fate of the Ring"

-- Gandalf, of Gollum (Fellowship, p. 69)

Fate in Middle-earth is a decree or design of one or more powers, be it the One or one or more of the Powers.

Fate is rarely 100% certain. There is almost always a way out, even if it's improbable.

Also there may be conflicting designs or decrees by different powers, so that the outcome is a compromise of sorts.

In the case of the Ring, the outcome could go either way.

The Ring could fall into the hands of Sauron, which would be the end of Middle-earth as the Free Peoples of the West know it.

Or it could be destroyed.

Either way, Gollum is instrumental in what will happen to the Ring: "he is bound up with the fate of the Ring" (Fellowship, p. 69).