Introduction to Brexit Britain as Gollum

Since Brexit, the British experience has been a topic of intense scrutiny, often drawing comparisons to significant figures and events from literature. The character of Gollum from The Lord of the Rings trilogy, a symbol of internal struggle, betrayal, and obsession, offers a poignant analogy to post-Brexit Britain. This comparison helps to unpack the complexities of the British psyche and the political landscape in the years following the referendum.

Why Not Gandalf?

Gandalf, the wise and benevolent wizard is a mystic figure, embodying guidance and redemption. However, Brexit Britain is often perceived as a troubling descent into darker, more chaotic elements. Gandalf’s outward goodness and leadership do not align with the messy realities of the Brexit aftermath, making him an unsuitable choice.

What about Saruman?

Another potential candidate, Saruman, the fallen wise wizard, represents a form of betrayal and betraying the "good guys," but his character is somewhat passive in comparison to the ongoing struggles of Brexit Britain. Saruman’s status as a warden and his eventual loss of power do provide a metaphor for the decline of traditional leadership and the ascendancy of new forces, yet his complete transformation and servility to Sauron is not a perfect fit for the active resistance and internal conflicts of Britain.

Perhaps Ghan-buri-Ghan?

First, let’s consider Ghan-buri-Ghan, a Lúthien character. Unlike Saruman, Ghan-buri-Ghan is a principled and independent figure, often refusing to join with either side. Like Ghan-buri-Ghan, Britain exhibits a reluctance to fully align with either the pro-EU or anti-EU factions. This independence and preference for neutrality might initially appear more admirable, but in practice, it leaves a gap that must be filled.

The Role of Sam Gamgee in Contrast

Instead, Sam Gamgee, the loyal and resilient hobbit, represents a more fitting comparison for post-Brexit Britain. Sam’s role as a steadfast supporter of Frodo, his willingness to face peril and endure hardship, parallels the resilience and determination of the British people during and after the Brexit process. Much like Sam, many Britons have shown strength and resolve in the face of uncertainty and challenging circumstances.

The Nature of Gollum

However, the character of Gollum provides a more nuanced and fitting analogy. Gollum, embodying both the past and present of the ring-bearer Sméagol, symbolizes the struggle between good and evil, the pull of nostalgia and the impetus for change. Gollum’s transformation from a simple hobbit to the hungry creature obsessed with the Ring (“my precious”) resonates with the divisive and polarizing nature of Brexit. Gollum’s internal conflicts, often struggling with loyalty and betrayal, mirror the British people’s mixed feelings about the decision and its consequences.

Analogy for Gollum and Brexit Britain

Gollum’s storyline is a constant internal battle between his good and evil aspects, and he is driven by his obsession with the Ring. Similarly, post-Brexit Britain is characterized by a persistent internal conflict between pro-EU and anti-EU sentiments. This duality reflects in the British people’s actions and decisions in the aftermath of the referendum.

Truman as Frodo

The character of Frodo, the Ring-bearer, is another intriguing comparison. Renowned for his resilience and moral courage, Frodo bears the burden of the Ring, and like Trump, he must navigate a complex and often hostile environment. However, comparing Trump directly to Frodo might be too direct and overly simplistic, potentially overshadowing the multifaceted nature of the British experience.

Smeagol vs. Gollum: A British Identity Crisis

Is Brexit Britain closer to Smeagol, the hobbit who was corrupted by the Ring, or Gollum, the corrupted version of Smeagol? This is a question of whether Brexit Britain is more a result of the corrupting influence of the EU (Smeagol) or the corrupted, dark essence that emerges from that corruption (Gollum). The answer is likely a combination of both, as the Brexit debate and process highlighted deep-seated grievances and a recalibration of national identity.

Conclusion: Gollum as Post-Brexit Britain

While there are various characters from The Lord of the Rings that offer insightful comparisons, Gollum stands out as the most fitting metaphor for post-Brexit Britain. His internal struggle, obsession with the Ring, and transformation from a hobbit to a grotesque creature represent the complex and often contradictory nature of the British experience following the referendum. Gollum’s story reminds us of the enduring human capacity for both good and evil, resilience in the face of adversity, and the dangers of becoming consumed by a singular obsession.