[carton253]

I guess... in my life... I've been Smeagol, I've been Boromir, I have failed greatly and in my failure I have come to understand that I'm not the person I've imagined myself to be.

So, I have learned that mercy and compassion are never out of line for those who failed. I have needed mercy and compassion on occasion.

Yes, Boromir was wrong to want the ring, but that one desire doesn't make him a villian. You can still fail and be a good man.

My Freeper name should tell you how I feel. Ever read A Tale of Two Cites? The Carton comes from Sydney Carton. Another good man with huge failings and weakness. And my favorite character in literature.

[JenB]

I like your philosophy. I've always thought Sidney Carton was one of Dickens' greatest characters.

Personally I like the hero who gives up what he wants to do what he must do, and also the Sam-types, the sidekick who does incredible things out of love for the hero (platonic or romantic love, at this level, it doesn't matter). I guess my idea is that everyone has a hero inside of him - it's just some people never get the chance, and other turn the chance down.

[carton253]

Though my defense of Smeagol comes from the fact that he is funny and entertaining. And in all that corrupt, lustful anger that makes Smeagol Gollum, I can still see a bit of the old hobbit far from field and family... who has lived past his time.

But mostly, he's my favorite character in the books because he makes me laugh. And I never turn down a good laugh.