Why Didn't Smaug Just Fly to the Lonely Mountain?

For many who have delved into the world of Middle-earth, one question always lingers: if Smaug was already in the Lonely Mountain, why didn't he simply fly back there and reclaim his treasured lair?

The Current Situation

It is true that Smaug is a powerful creature, immensely formidable in both size and magic. He is known for his ability to fly, which makes him a formidable opponent. However, this alone does not explain why he didn't simply fly back to the Lonely Mountain without any clear obstacles to his initial possession.

The Historical Context

Smaug's original capture and subsequent period in the mountains of the Lonely Mountain were marked by significant developments. The Hobbit tells us that he was a conqueror from the East who had already taken over the mountain long before the events of the story. He had been dormant for over two centuries, but his return to life and subsequent reign were hotly anticipated.

After his awakening, Smaug did not immediately move to return to the mountain, a course of action that would have been the most straightforward. Instead, he attacked river-town settlements, causing unrest and turmoil, as well as enormous property damage. This suggests he was biding his time for another opportunity, but the real question arises: why this setback?

The Problem with Simply Flying Back

The key to understanding this question lies in the complex narrative and the multifaceted characters in The Hobbit. Smaug had been defeated and slain by Bard, the archer, whose arrows pierced his heart. His death was not incidental or a technicality; Smaug was dead, and being dead makes flying a bit tricky. Physical limitations aside, the psychological impact of such an event was profound.

Smaug's final moments were a testament to his invincibility and the shock of losing it. This loss was not just physical but psychological. The narrative implies that even the most invincible can be vanquished, and Smaug faced this reality, grieving and possibly in a state of despair.

Strategic Implications

The strategic implications are also significant. By attacking neighboring regions, Smaug created a situation where his absence from the Lonely Mountain would have made his return easier. The logistics of moving such a massive and valuable hoard would have been challenging. If he tried to move his treasure and crew in one go, it would have been a massive undertaking fraught with risks.

Moreover, the dragon had to consider the political climate. His earlier actions had already stirred up unrest among the dwarves and other creatures. A sudden return might not have been well-received, especially with the elves and men watching for an opportunity to reclaim what was rightfully theirs. A careful strategy was needed to ensure a smooth transition from his defeated state to reasserting control.

Conclusion

Thus, though Smaug was capable of flying, the question of why he didn't simply fly back to the Lonely Mountain is more complex than it seems. The combination of his defeat, the need for a strategic approach, and the resources required for a safe return all contributed to the intricate narrative of The Hobbit. Understanding these nuances provides deeper insights into the rich tapestry of Middle-earth.

Further exploration of J.R.R. Tolkien's works can offer more details on the intricacies of Smaug's life and the potential strategies he might have employed. Whether through geopolitics, logistics, or simple strategic deception, a return was likely too risky and complex for the dragon to contemplate.