A Joy That Brings Tears: The Boons And Blessings Of Eucatastrophe

A recently discovered word called “eucatastrophe” has sparked interest and prompted discussions among friends and family. Despite their educated backgrounds, none of them were familiar with the term, which refers to a sudden joyful turn in a story. In contrast, they were well aware of the concept of catastrophe, defined as a significant event causing damage or disaster. This definition can range from a devastating hurricane to a child’s innocent artwork on a living room wall.

The originator of the word, J.R.R. Tolkien, described eucatastrophe as a happy twist in a narrative that evokes tears of joy. He even went on to claim that the Resurrection was the ultimate eucatastrophe, found in the greatest Fairy Story.

Real-life examples can also demonstrate the power of eucatastrophe. In one case, a man experienced the heartbreak of his wife abandoning him only two years after getting married. However, after a couple more years, he met the love of his life – a woman who adored him and became the mother of his children. Reflecting on this twist of fate, he realized that the end of his first marriage paved the way for genuine happiness.

Another remarkable story involves a man who was sentenced to prison for burglary and drug possession. During his incarceration, he joined adult basic education classes, viewing his time in prison as a wake-up call. He earned his GED and, upon release, reunited with his wife and children, embracing a new career as a welder. Seeing him afterwards, one could witness the genuine happiness radiating from his smile. The ordeal behind bars had given him a fresh perspective on life and his priorities.

Now, imagine losing your spouse unexpectedly and being left to care for two children on your own. It becomes an unimaginable and isolating experience. Fortunately, the support of family and friends comes into play, providing financial aid, childcare assistance, and meals. However, when night falls, and you lie in bed alone, contemplating the future can be overwhelmingly lonely and hopeless. This catastrophe appears to be an utter disaster.

In such dire circumstances, giving in to despair would mean descending into a personal hell. Therefore, one must embrace hope above all else.

Quoting Tolkien’s words:

“From the ashes a fire shall be woken, A light from the shadows shall spring; Renewed shall be blade that was broken, The crownless again shall be king.”

Whether through our own resilient efforts, the intervention of eucatastrophe, or a combination of both, we must maintain belief that a flame can be ignited from the ashes of calamity. It is with this belief that we breathe life into the embers and nurture the flames. This sense of hope and renewal is an essential part of our human nature, as Tolkien observed, “This is indeed how things really do work in the Great World for which our nature is made.”