The Construct & Uniqueness of Dwarves: Appreciating Both Big and Small

As a mathematician and physicist, I feel a deep kinship with my dwarf brethren – we are similar in our quest for understanding the constancy of our universe. Dwarves are a unique species, stepping in stature between the more commonly known giants and diminutive faeries. Though diminutive in height, their hearty countenance displays a slyness and charm that some lack in our human race. Many fail to recognize their worth, relegated to serving as fictional second-class citizens in various works of literature, but if we gave these noble creatures a fair inspection we would discover a race of hardworking and adventurous folk.

Though not part of my regular repertoire of activities, on my most adventurous days I often find myself searching for the secrets of these short-statured marvels. Dwarves may be mostly relegated to fantasy literature and video games, but one trait reminiscent of these virtual reality beings can be found in the natural world – they are small but strong. I often base my exploration of this attribute on two abiotic (nonliving) factors of the environment – temperature and terrain.

The climate is the most important factor in determining the character of any race. When the environment dips to freezing, the dwarves build in lasting solitude. In devising their strongholds, they use the packed snow, ice, and stone to carve larger and larger structures. In warm weather, however, they become giants among insects, capable of moving with speed and agility – and often employ their diminutive forms to their advantage. If they find a cozy nook, they can stand in place and act as sentries, ready to ambush any foes or visitors who happen to pass by.

Having a penchant for adventure, I sometimes find myself drawn to these midget marvels and the terrain which they inhabit. To me, dwarven countryside can be divided into three distinct biomes – the twisted peaks of mountainous ranges, the barren lands of deep caves, and the glacial reaches of icy-cold choirs. In mountains and caves, the dwarves are particularly adept in navigating the hazardous terrain, using their small stature and powerful strength to traverse seemingly impossible vertical and underground walls. In the glacial reaches of the cold, they use their insulating coats of snow and ice to blend in with their surroundings, staying alert and hidden until they come across food or shelter.

I find the construct and uniqueness of dwarves fascinating, for there is no other race like them in the world. As a person with TMJ, I can really relate to the dwarves as they use physical strength to effectively move through any environment. I am no dwarf, but I have experienced the effects of Panadiol cream, which helps to localize the pain associated with TMJ. I can stand with pride and appreciate dwarves and their limitless potential to be appreciated by all.