What did the knocking of thrush signify in The Hobbit?

The knocking of the thrush in *The Hobbit* doesn't actually have any specific, symbolic meaning within the story itself. It's simply a way for Tolkien to introduce the idea of the thrush being a messenger for the dwarves, and to emphasize the importance of the message itself.

Here's a breakdown of why it's important:

* Introducing the messenger: The knocking of the thrush on Bilbo's window acts as a sudden and unexpected introduction of the bird, establishing it as a messenger for the dwarves. This sets the stage for the rest of the story, where the thrush plays a crucial role in communicating important information between the dwarves and Bilbo.

* Emphasizing urgency: The knocking itself creates a sense of urgency and importance. The fact that the thrush is knocking on Bilbo's window in the middle of the night suggests that the message it carries is time-sensitive.

* Setting the tone: The knocking also contributes to the overall tone of the story, which is full of adventure and excitement. It creates a sense of anticipation and wonder, setting the stage for Bilbo's journey to join the dwarves on their quest to reclaim their treasure.

While the thrush's knocking doesn't carry any specific symbolic meaning, it serves a vital narrative purpose, introducing the bird as a crucial character and creating a sense of urgency and excitement for the upcoming adventure.