This is my first tattoo; the Shards of Narsil, the Sword of Kings.
Ultimately, this symbolizes the kingship of Gondor and Arnor, the good of mankind and opposition of darkness in Tolkien’s writings, as well as the character of Aragorn, whose valor, strength of good will, compassion, and humility I revere endlessly and since childhood I’ve strived to reflect the best I can on a daily basis. It also symbolizes my love for the story of the Lord of the Rings and how it has shaped me these past ten, formative, years of my life.
As I love the films’ version of the sword, I kept it, but honored the books by only retaining the two main shards. Aragorn carries these early in the story as an heirloom of the House of Elendil, before it is reforged. The blossoms and petals surrounding it symbolize his return to Gondor as King, when once again the White Tree blossoms as his reign, and the Fourth Age, begins.
Yes, I am an insufferable nerd!
Drawn by myself and inked by Mr. Kelly, proprietor of Olde Tyme Tattoo in Fullerton, CA.
