Alternative Endings: The Impact of Gollum Not Falling into the Lava Pit

The iconic scene at the end of The Lord of the Rings where Gollum falls into the lava pit marked a defining moment in the story. Had he survived with the Ring in his possession, numerous key outcomes could have dramatically altered the fate of Middle-earth and its inhabitants. This essay explores how Gollum’s survival and possession of the One Ring would have affected the narrative and the broader implications for the characters and the world.

Survival of Gollum

If Gollum had not fallen into the lava pit, he would have survived with the Ring. This survival would have continued the cycle of corruption that the Ring imposed upon its bearer. Gollum would have potentially become even more dangerous and erratic, driven by the Ring’s dark power. The survival of the Ring in such circumstances would also have had significant ramifications for the other characters and the overall narrative.

The Ring's Influence

Gollum’s possession of the Ring could have led him to use it for personal gain and to seek his own power and revenge. He might have become a new threat to the surviving LOTR characters, especially Frodo and Sam. Gollum’s ambition to regain power could have led to a power struggle with Sauron, who would still be actively searching for the Ring. This situation would have introduced a new and complex dynamic into the story, with more direct and immediate conflict between these characters.

Impact on Frodo and Sam

The journey of Frodo and Sam would have been very different without the destruction of the Ring. They would have to face the possibility of Gollum using the Ring against them or perhaps even allying with him temporarily to escape Mount Doom. This scenario would have added a layer of complexity and unpredictability to their journey, making it more dangerous and morally challenging.

Sauron's Return

The survival of the Ring would have allowed Sauron to regain his full power, eventually resulting in a new era of conflict in Middle-earth. With Gollum at the helm, Sauron might have been drawn back to Mordor, leading to a more direct and powerful reintegration of Sauron’s influence. This would have led to a prolonged struggle, with the Free Peoples facing a continued threat from Gollum and the dark power of the Ring.

The Fate of Middle-earth

The presence of the Ring would have meant that the threat of Sauron remained, instituting further conflict and danger for Middle-earth. The Free Peoples would have had to rally against the new threat of Gollum or the possibility of Sauron regaining power through him. This prolonged struggle would have explored the themes of corruption and the struggle for power more deeply, with Gollum as a central figure in the continued conflict.

The Nazgul’s Role

The scene where the Nazgul descend would have followed if Gollum had failed to fall. The only question would have been whether Gollum could bring himself to jump into the fire with the Ring. This decision would have further tested Gollum’s psyche and his loyalty, adding another layer of dramatic tension to the story. The presence of the Nazgul would have signaled a new phase of conflict, with Gollum’s actions becoming even more critical to the outcome.

The Conclusion

In essence, Gollum’s survival and possession of the Ring would have prolonged the struggle against Sauron, potentially leading to a darker and more chaotic outcome for Middle-earth. The themes of corruption and the struggle for power would have been further explored, with Gollum as a central figure in this continued conflict. This alternative ending would have reshaped the narrative and reimagined the impact of the Ring’s power on Middle-earth’s destiny.