Destiny

I think that Strider's situation could be a metaphor. Tolkien could be trying to communicate the toren feelings that many soldiers experienced during World War II. Strider's heart belongs in Rivendell and that is where he may truly desire to be. One the other hand though, he must ignore his heart and instead commit to a trek across Middle Earth. This could be symbolizing the difficult commitment that many individuals had to experience during the time this book was written. I believe that destiny does play a part in the character's lives but it's not a binding fate, like the draft. Their lives present changes and turns but they are the ones that decided on them. For example, after Gandalf explains their situation, Frodo chose to bring the ring to Rivendell. I think that the character's destinies change but they do have decision that effect their destinies.