In life, we often find that the things we desire the most – whether they are material objects, experiences, or even relationships – come with a price. The notion that “if something is beautiful or nice, it is either harmful or expensive” speaks to the tension between our longing for beauty and the reality of its consequences. This idea, while slightly cynical, offers a meaningful reflection on human desire and the costs associated with attaining what we perceive as valuable.

To explore this concept further, let’s break it down into several key ideas, interwoven with some wisdom from one of the greatest epics of all time: The Lord of the Rings. J.R.R. Tolkien’s timeless work gives us deep insights into desire, sacrifice, and the costs we pay in our pursuit of beauty and power.

Beauty has a unique pull over us. Whether it’s a breathtaking landscape, a piece of fine art, or a luxurious product, we are naturally drawn to beautiful things. But what we often forget is that beauty often comes with a hidden price – whether in money, time, or even well-being.

In the material world, this is perhaps most apparent with luxury goods. We desire things like designer clothing, expensive cars, and exquisite jewelry, not only for their beauty but also for the status they confer. Yet, the price tag is often steep, and the pursuit of such beauty can lead us into cycles of consumerism, debt, or superficiality.

Tolkien echoes this sentiment with a different kind of beauty in The Lord of the Rings: the One Ring. To the eye, it is a simple, beautiful object, but its allure is dangerous. It promises great power, yet it comes with a heavy price – one that corrupts those who seek it.

As Gandalf wisely says:

“There are other forces at work in this world besides the will of evil. Bilbo was meant to find the Ring, in which case you also were meant to have it. And that is an encouraging thought.”

But despite this hopeful note, the beauty and power of the Ring bring nothing but pain and destruction to those who possess it. The pursuit of beauty, whether through objects or experiences, often blinds us to the risks involved.

Sometimes, the most beautiful things can also be the most harmful. This can apply to both physical beauty and the beauty of ideals or ambitions. Think of the dazzling glow of a screen that we spend hours staring at – whether it’s our phones or computers. We are entranced by the content, the connectedness, and the stimulation, yet too much of it leads to harm – be it through stress, anxiety, or deteriorating physical health.

Tolkien portrays this harm through the character of Gollum, who is obsessed with the beauty and power of the Ring. Once a hobbit-like creature, he becomes disfigured and consumed by his desire for the “precious.”

“He hates and loves the Ring, as he hates and loves himself,” says Frodo of Gollum, showing how the pursuit of something beautiful can destroy both body and soul.

In our world, we may not encounter a magical ring, but we see this same destruction in our obsession with beauty standards. Whether through unhealthy diets, cosmetic surgeries, or unrealistic portrayals of perfection, the pursuit of beauty can become toxic, leading to physical and mental harm.

Even when beauty is not physically harmful, it can still come with a hefty price tag. We often find that the things that bring us the most joy are the most expensive. Vacations to exotic places, fine dining experiences, and even attending major events can be incredibly costly. While these things certainly bring pleasure, the financial cost can be burdensome, creating stress that offsets the enjoyment.

In The Lord of the Rings, we see that even the pursuit of happiness, safety, and peace often demands great sacrifice. Frodo, Sam, and the rest of the Fellowship must give up everything they hold dear to destroy the Ring. The cost is high – not in gold, but in physical and emotional tolls.

Samwise Gamgee captures this sacrifice with a heartfelt reflection:

“I can’t carry it for you, but I can carry you.”

In our own lives, we may not be on a quest to save Middle-earth, but we do encounter moments where the pursuit of happiness comes with personal sacrifice. We may work long hours to afford the things we want, only to realize that we are sacrificing our time, health, or relationships in the process.

Given that beauty and desirability often come with a cost, how do we navigate this reality? Is it possible to enjoy the things we find beautiful without paying too high a price? The key may lie in balance. While the saying suggests that beautiful things are either harmful or expensive, it doesn’t mean we should avoid them altogether.

In The Lord of the Rings, the characters who succeed are those who recognize the dangers of their desires but choose to act in the service of a greater good. Frodo doesn’t seek the Ring for himself; instead, he sacrifices his safety to protect the world. Similarly, we can choose to pursue beauty and pleasure in moderation, without letting it consume us or lead to harm.

We can also find beauty in simplicity. As Tolkien illustrates through the Shire, the simple life can often be the most fulfilling. The hobbits enjoy their gardens, their food, and their friendship without needing extravagant wealth or power.

“It’s the job that’s never started as takes longest to finish,” Sam says, reminding us that even in simple pleasures, there is wisdom and beauty.

The saying “If something is beautiful or nice, it is either harmful or expensive” captures an essential truth about life. Most things of great value, whether material or immaterial, come with a cost. But as Tolkien’s characters demonstrate, we have the power to choose how we approach beauty and desire. We can strive for balance, avoid harm, and appreciate the beauty in simple, meaningful experiences without allowing ourselves to be consumed by the pursuit of what glitters.

In the end, perhaps the true beauty lies not in the things we chase, but in the journey itself – and in the choices we make along the way. Just as Frodo and his companions learn, it is not the object of desire but the strength of character that ultimately leads to fulfillment. And that is a beauty no cost can diminish.