[Orofaniel]

Orofaniel -- I don't think that the Shire is terribly 'flawed'. I would live there in a second, given the option; but I do think that after a very short while I would begin to go mad looking for the kind of discussion and inquisitiveness that characterises communities like the BD! I would also chafe against the provicialism of the place and await with great joy the arrival of the occaisional visitor from outside for a piece of news. I'm also not so sure I would enjoy the rather strict class system, no matter how benign it might be.
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If you lived in the Shire in the first place, and didn't have any other "home", then I have difficulties understanding why you'd go mad. But if you, as a human of today, lived in the Shire, I can see what you mean. I think that's the human nature; to long for an idyllic place, and then afterwards, maybe, flee from it as you seek something more. I don't think you'll only find that in the fictional world; but also in the real world. I wonder how many times I've been looking for something I feel is missing in my everyday life. Not only that but also have I longed for other people for communication, opinions etc. I’m not sure if my point is getting trough here though, but this is the best way I can explain it.

(I'm way off topic here Sorry)

Cheers,
Orofaniel