One True Fandom=Love Forever

Happy birthday to dear Shirebound!

periantari — Sat, 28 Mar 2026 22:37:32 GMT

I wish you have a happy and healthy year and the best year ever! My mathom will be posted later... (still editing)

Also happy belated to Grey_wonderer (3/24! same as my mom) :) (we are reminiscing about the past right now and the many moots we had back then... i was a young hobbit back then. )

:hugs SHirebound: have a great one, dear!

To Dreamflower02

periantari — Sat, 28 Mar 2026 03:00:56 GMT

We never met, but Dreamflower was doing everything and anything for hobbit fic and our fandom and it is so sad that she has left this world. From the fanfic challenges she used to have, to her relaying information for fanfic purposes, she was such a knowledgeable lady with awesome, detailed, fun hobbit stories. She made the web site fanfic archive Many Paths to Tread, led the lotr gen fic community, co-mod of <lj user=shire_kitchen> and <lj user=lotr_crafts> and posted on Stories of Arda and LJ a lot. She wrote awesome essays, such a creative soul.

PIPPIN: I didn't think it would end this way.

GANDALF: End? No, the journey doesn't end here. Death is just another path, one that we all must take. The grey rain-curtain of this world rolls back, and all turns to silver glass, and then you see it.

PIPPIN: What? Gandalf? See what?

GANDALF: White shores, and beyond, a far green country under a swift sunrise.

I was sad the whole week actually and only came around to write this LJ entry. May she rest in peace and we will forever remember her by the lovely writing and her LJ that is still here.

<Lj user=grey_wonderer> found her obituary page- https://www.palmermarlerfh.com/guestbook/barbara-rich

So we can pay our respects, send condolences. :huggles everyone affected:

Happy Hobbit Day!!

periantari — Tue, 23 Sep 2025 02:18:19 GMT

I love this day as much as Gondorian New Year. <3 hope everyone had a good hobbity day! =)

Lost Time cont'd- Denethor

periantari — Fri, 20 Jun 2025 02:55:18 GMT

Adding more from grey_wonderer's email giving bunnies of Denethor, Bilbo and Elrond. And i reread some of Siege of Gondor to be more inspired

"But he himself went up alone into the secret room under the summit of the Tower; and many who looked up thither at that time saw a pale light that gleamed and flickered from the narrow windows for a while, and then flashed and went out. And when Denethor descended again he went to Faramir and sat beside him without speaking, but the face of the Lord was grey, more deathlike than his son's."- The Siege of Gondor, RotK

What he saw in the palantir was the vision of Gondor falling and his son dying. His lost time with his sons flew by in a second as the enemy seemed to have guessed what he regretted most- his time as Steward stole more time away from his sons.

Denethor's eyes blurred with unshed tears that this could be the end of his time and lands. How could he let this come to be?

In anger and anguish, he would not bear to let the enemy come and slay him; he would choose his own course of how to die.

Lost time prompt cont'd

periantari — Sun, 15 Jun 2025 03:21:37 GMT

Two drabbles within, one Bilbo, one Frodo

They turned away on that frigid January day and Bilbo could not help but feel upset. What if he had brought the Ring to Rivendell if had known earlier? What if Gandalf had told him sooner? He would not have subjected Frodo in the danger that he had already been in, the Fellowship did not have to attempt such a perilous road.

What if…

What if Gandalf had told him sooner….he would do all he could to make sure Frodo would’t have gone because of his taking of the Ring so long ago.

All this time had been lost.

..........

Frodo at Minas Morgul:

“I am too late. All is lost.”

Why did he delay too long? The Fellowship taking too much time deciding which path to go which was clear in Frodo’s mind long ago?

As Frodo thought this, hopelessness forced him to complete despair and darkness washed over him. Why was it even worth it to keep going? Was there any point?

A voice from the Shire woke him in his swoon. “Mr. Frodo!”

Frodo dug deep within and was resolute. He had come so far, he could not turn back. He had to keep going for himself now, not to prove to anyone. He must see it through.

For the tolkien_weekly prompt "Lost Time"

periantari — Wed, 11 Jun 2025 02:49:34 GMT

It was angsty thinking at first but then i remembered one of my fave couples in fandom. :)

Wasting Time

His Rosie thought he had wasted a year, but he was busy tending to his Master, tending to the Shire. He also thought that he was productive in his own right.

So when Frodo asked him to move in with him, he was doubly embarrassed.

“Is it alright that we all live together?” Sam asked with his face red.

“Of course, if it’s alright by Rosie,” replied Frodo enthusiastically.

When Sam shared the news with Rosie, she immediately replied yes; they set a date to wed the same year.

“No more wasting time, Sam!”

“No, of course not, my dearest.”

Happy Mother's Day!

periantari — Mon, 12 May 2025 02:40:35 GMT

How better to celebrate with a little drabble...wrote it several weeks ago and never posted here (did on tumblr though)...

"What Love Is" (featuring Eowyn)

Eowyn felt anxious when Elboron was born; she was not ready to be a mother, and she felt that she would not be a good mother for she lacked a role model that showed her how to be one.

However, Elboron was an easy baby and showed that motherhood was naturally in her. She felt her heart melt whenever she looked at him; it seemed that time could stand still with him being in her world.

Whenever Faramir looked at their son, his eyes lit up in pride, and she could not help but feel pure joy.

This was love.

addendum to my fic "Relapse" Beregond -where was he?

periantari — Tue, 29 Apr 2025 02:43:31 GMT

Two reviewers wanted Beregond and yes, i admit draft 1 didn't have him so here he is! I think i'll insert this into Chapter 13 when i repost. :) Muse has me towards the end of the story as well. (rewriting some Chapter 21 though so not ready to post)

Chapter 13 - Friends in Unexpected Places

“I am sorry to come so late; how is Faramir doing? I heard that he has been ill as of late?”

Beregond had returned to Minas Tirith from Emyn Arnen. He had been tasked to start looking for a proper home for the Steward and also lead the Royal Guard to scout out Ithilien and see that no enemies remained. When he went home to Bergil and his lady, a letter was sent to him from Imrahil, but he did not receive it until recently. And he did not know his Lord was ill.

“Yes, he has been battling the Black Breath, but the King himself has been tending him,” said Imrahil. “It would be great to have your company; I am sure he would be glad to see you. King’s instruction is that he rests. He was overburdened by the coronation, funeral arrangements and the recovery of Gondor.”

“Yes, he works too hard. I will be happy to see him.” Beregond remembered how frail Faramir had looked at the Houses of Healing when he was recovering from his shoulder wound and the fever that would not break. He feared he would lose his Lord at that time. He was upset to hear of the recurring Black Breath. Surely, Faramir would battle and win this second time around?

Beregond saw that Faramir was sleeping when he went to his room. Different medicinal teas were arranged near his bedside. The hobbits, Merry and Pippin were there and they were cheerily speaking amongst each other quietly. Prince Imrahil also sat in a corner, reading a book.

“Why hello Beregond!”

“Hello Pippin- how is our Steward? I am sorry to come so late- i did not get the letter till late,” said Beregond.

“He is on the mend, but he is still feverish and has nightmares. Strider said he needs to rest lately but you know how hard it is to keep him in bed.”

Faramir stirred, sat up slowly and smiled, “Beregond! Good to see you!”

“And you as well, my Lord!” Beregond took Faramir’s arm and embraced him. Beregond had not seen him since the coronation. “How are you feeling? I heard you were under the weather.”

“I am fine- the King just thinks otherwise,” Faramir replied with a smile. “I’m just a little tired.”

“He is suffering from Black Breath,” said Merry. “And Strider says he needs to rest,”

“You overworked without me around? Just write me a letter and I'll see to Minas Tirith’s recovery as well!” Beregond said. Faramir did look pale even though he was smiling. Beregond also felt that he was quite warm.

“Yes, well I knew you were busy in Ithilien. How is it in Emyn Arnen and the surrounding areas? Any sign of the enemy lingering?” asked Faramir. “Do you know where we can relocate?”

“The Guard has swept through about seventy percent of the area and fortunately our enemies have not been spotted. We did see some Easterlings flee a couple of days ago, but we have captured them and we sent notice to their leaders asking how to deal with the prisoners of war. There is nothing to worry about; I have told the King about these soldiers. Regarding your home, we have two spots that we are considering so when you are better, please ride there and see for yourself. It is several hours from Minas Tirith so if you are needed by the King, you can easily ride back, but far enough that you are in the peaceful confines of the forest in which you prefer.”

Faramir had forgotten he did not yet have time to ride to Ithilien to plan his future home. He was glad Beregond had reminded him. “I will come when I recov–”

“You are not there yet,” said Imrahil, feeling Faramir’s forehead. “It’s time for more willow bark.”

Faramir and Beregond caught up with the occurrences in Ithilien more so. Faramir was very glad he had come by.

“Let me plan a trip there soon. But I am feeling weary now,” said Faramir with a sigh.

“Yes, please rest some more, my Lord. I will be at your service,” said Beregond with a bow and then he left the room.

Pippin followed Beregond.

“It is good that you returned too,” said Pippin quietly.

“Yes, and why is that?”

“Our Steward just needs as much support as possible. He still has the Black Breath,” Pippin whispered. “And also, handling the death of his father could be hard at times. I told him, and it was the one of the hardest things that I had to do,” said Pippin.

“Sorry to hear that. I too mourn the death of Denethor and regret the slaying of the porter,” Beregond looked distressed. “That was a tragic end to Denethor and i regret that we had to experience it. How can we help Faramir more?”

“We need to distract him more and keep him company. He says he doesn’t want it but I think it’s good to talk to him. My cousin Frodo has had experience with grief and just being there would be helpful.”

“Thank you for letting me know.”

…

Beregond stayed by his Lord that day. He was glad to see Faramir looking better.

“What ails you the most from this illness?”

“I was overworked- there is no need to worry,” replied Faramir. That was the easy way to explain things. He needn’t worry Beregond with details.

“The war has taken a toll; I am sorry about all that had passed among the rangers of Ithilien,” said Beregond sympathetically. “And I am sorry about Denethor.”

“You were there that day he passed, weren’t you?” Faramir asked evenly. He knew better than to probe too much, but he didn’t know what Beregond may say.

Beregond paused, “I am sure Mithrandir and Pippin already spoke about it? I need not repeat anything unnecessarily? Is there anything that can ease your mind?”

“No, you are right. There is nothing.” Faramir paced the room in deep thought. Fire and ashes. He paused and he felt a bit out of sorts again, pieces of memory again seeming to invade his senses.

“My lord?” Beregond was there to orient Faramir for Faramir seemed to have a faraway look in his eyes. “Do you wish to know anything more? There really is not anything to add to what you have heard.”

“I am alright,” Faramir replied slowly, focusing on his friend intently. He looked at Beregond and saw his concern. Beregond had brought a mug of tea for him and he felt calmer smelling the fresh herb of chamomile. It was best not to mention anything regarding his father’s death.

“Don’t blame yourself on things that cannot be changed,” said Beregond. “Gondor needs their Steward, and please recover soon.”

“I understand and thank you for your confidence,” replied Faramir. Did he want to press for more details? He shuddered involuntarily. Being burnt alive was not something that would be better with details. He felt a bit nauseous thinking about how close he was to the fire, how close to the afterlife he could’ve been…how mad his father may have been to want to burn him as well. Why wouldn't Denethor let him choose his life?

“My lord?”

Faramir did not realize he was grasping onto the curtains with his knuckles white as if grasping for life. Beads of sweat had accumulated. A headache had reoccurred, and he felt anxious. He sat down in weariness.

Beregond gave some more tea to calm Faramir down.

“Are you alright?” What are you thinking about? Do you need me to ask the King to come?”

“Nothing, I am glad for you helping save me,” said Faramir slowly. “I just…can’t fathom what occurred in Denethor’s mind. I guess I will never understand.”

“Gandalf or PIppin told you about the palantir, didn’t they?” said Beregond softly and reluctantly. “That was the cause– it was not something we could’ve prevented, my Lord. Please believe that and don’t blame anyone and it is hard to understand but what is important is that you’re alive. It’s so important for Gondor to see their Steward alive and guide them to the New Age.”

“I wonder,” Faramir sighed. “Yes, I know the importance of guiding our people. I am not sure why I can’t feel better sooner but I am on the mend. You are right- Father must not have been in his right mind. It is a pity.”

There was some silence for a while and then Faramir felt a wave of weariness affecting him. “I must rest now- thank you for coming by.”

Beregond didn’t want to leave Faramir anxious again. Fortunately, the hobbits came in at that time.

“What happened, Faramir? Are you all right?” Pippin asked, sensing some tension in the room.

“Yes, do you want to talk about anything?” Merry asked.

“No, I am more weary at the moment and may lie down for a nap,” said Faramir. But internally, he was ill at ease about Denethor and how he could’ve decided his fate as such. His headache abated a bit with the teas but thoughts of not understanding why persisted. Someone’s hand was on his forehead.

“My Lord, you are quite warm- take some more willow bark,” said Beregond.

Faramir acquiesced silently. After taking the tea, Faramir fell into an uneasy sleep.

…

“Why was Faramir so anxious, all of a sudden?” Aragorn had arrived and was assessing the situation. He felt the increased heart rate even as his patient slept. He put some lavender oil in the air to make sure it can increase the calm in the air.

“We mentioned Denethor’s last moments a bit and he was inquiring about it,” said Beregond quietly. “Of course, I did not go into detail but I think it is still present in his mind about details and his role in it.”

The hobbits looked sympathetic and Aragorn furrowed his brow in worry.

It was a hard demon to vanquish and one of the most tragic things to happen during the war. It would take time for the Steward to accept the circumstances regarding his father.

“What can we do to help him through that? What should we mention and not mention?” Beregond asked. He looked at Faramir’s sleeping figure but could see that he was frowning, seemingly in a bad dream. He put his hand in Faramir’s and the Steward relaxed a bit.

The hobbits looked at each other and at Aragorn.

“It’ll take time to get through trauma like that,” Frodo broke the silence first.

“I believe Frodo is right- we will just have to keep the conversation light if possible.”

…

Beregond sat by Faramir and waited for him to awake later that day. The hobbits had gone for lunch and said that they would return later. He made sure to prepare a warm mug of tea for him when he awoke. He felt badly that his Lord was feeling this much grief after the war and wanted to be there for him to alleviate his pain.

Faramir stirred; he had some dreams that he did not remember but when he saw Beregond, he smiled and said, “Were you waiting for me to wake? I am feeling alright now.” Faramir sat up without aid and was glad that Beregond had a cup of hot tea for him.

“Are you hungry? Should I send for some food as well?” Beregond asked. Beregond also felt Faramir’s head to see if he was feverish and it seemed that he had cooled down. “Do you still feel feverish?”

“No, I am alright for now.” Faramir did feel better and he was glad for Beregond’s company.

“Do you want to go for a walk? It would be a nice change from being in bed?” Beregond asked. Faramir happily obliged and the two men went out to the courtyard. It was warm that day and the flowers bloomed. The gardeners of Minas Tirith took care of the yards and made sure that the Citadel looked like it had before the Siege.

“Thank you for helping with Emyn Arnen and also for coming back. Do you anticipate we will have any delays with finding supplies to build the home?”

“No, it will be fine- we just need you to come and decide where to have your home since we have decided on two places.”

“Yes, I remember you mentioning that before,” said Faramir with a smile. He looked out to the lower circles and his eyes landed on the beginnings of the Silent Street and he shuddered.

“My lord? Are you cold?”

“No I am fine,” Faramir closed his eyes and tried hard not to think of the tombs and his brush with death. He was glad for the sunshine and the good weather of the day instead.

“Tell me when you decided to wed. Are you in touch with Eowyn? Where will you have your wedding?” Beregond did not know any details yet.

“No, I have not had time to go over details with Eowyn- I hope to see her when we depart to Edoras for King Theoden’s burial. We will decide then. I will be away for two months, I believe.”

“Good for you. You deserve the rest. You have been working non-stop and be sure to take care of yourself.”

“And you as well, Beregond.” Faramir was glad to have Beregond be appointed to be Captain of the White Company and glad for Aragorn’s sentence for him to be dismissed from Minas Tirith and to be part of his staff instead. He was grateful Beregond saved him.

“I never thanked you for what you did that day…”

“There is nothing to be thankful for- you know how important you are to Minas Tirith,” said Beregond.

“Thank you for your vote of confidence. I just wish…”Faramir’s voice trailed. He wished many things but he was glad for his friend’s words. Abandoning his post to save him could’ve had Beregond get the death penalty or worse in these times when his father still ruled but Aragorn’s pardon and mercy weighed heavily on his mind. He was glad for the sentence and glad he had his subject as devoted as Beregond to help him in the transition.

“You’re doing the best you can, and please recover fully so you can come out to Ithilien. There is more to plan and do for the Fourth Age.”

“You are right, Beregond. Thank you for reminding me of these things,” said Faramir brightly.

Happy birthday Samwise!

periantari — Mon, 07 Apr 2025 01:37:05 GMT

"He (Sam) did reach the point of pity at last but for the good of Gollum too late. If he had, what could then have happened? The course of the entry into Mordor and the struggle to reach Mount Doom would have been different, and so would the ending. The interest would have shifted to Gollum, I think, and the battle that would have gone on between his repentance and his new love on one side and the Ring. Though the love would have been strengthened daily it could not have wrested the mastery from the Ring. I think that in some queer twisted and pitiable way, Gollum would have tried (not maybe with conscious design) to satisfy both. Certainly at some point not long before the end he would have stolen the Ring or taken it by violence (as he does in the actual Tale). But ‘possession’ satisfied, I think he would then have sacrificed himself for Frodo’s sake and have voluntarily cast himself into the fiery abyss."

Letter 246, The Letters of JRR Tolkien

That last observation from Tolkien is so interesting- toss himself voluntarily...Sam would do that for his dear master. :*(

How many reasons do we love our Sam, i do not have to list here but yeah, hope he had many happy ones! :)

Untitled double drabble

periantari — Wed, 02 Apr 2025 04:05:50 GMT

All they wanted was a friend to speak with, to have a speechless yet understanding companion next to them to make the waiting game a bit easier. Patience was an endurance game. Merry felt the keenness of the anticipation which took all that he had.

“Tell me what you know about Lady Eowyn.”

Merry was glad to be acquainted with Faramir, and he saw the resemblance to Boromir, who he had admired greatly. Though Faramir did not share the trials he went through, Merry could read that it had not been an easy time.

“Be careful, my lady.”

Lady Eowyn was still closed off, not willing to open up as much, her face conveyed grief and unrest. Merry tried to convey that she should be careful of the Black Breath reoccurring.

Merry just wanted to be with a friend, so that he could feel more ease at the fact that all who he loved had gone to the evil land and where all their hopes had gone. Still feeling ill, he looked east and saw that the first flower was in bloom and that even though the sun was wan, it peaked out nevertheless, willing them to hope once more.

kinda inspired by the tolkien100 prompt of "find a friend"... Merry found Faramir and Eowyn in the Houses of Healing so i guess that applies. :P

Quote of the moment

periantari — Mon, 31 Mar 2025 03:38:14 GMT

It is true that if these hobbits understood the danger, they would not dare to go. But they would still wish to go, or wish that they dared, and be shamed and unhappy. I think, Elrond, that in this matter it would be well to trust rather to their friendship than to great wisdom.

Gandalf, The Ring Goes South, FotR

Happy Birthday to the talented Shirebound! (3/28)

periantari — Sat, 29 Mar 2025 11:03:28 GMT

Sorry for posting this a day late but i made this for you !

A little ficlet — Frodo, Sam, Rosie, and Elanor. :)

March 26, 3021

She was the most beautiful faunt that Frodo had ever seen. When Samwise and Rosie gave birth to Elanor, Frodo was one of the first to visit. He was heartened by her rosy cheeks, pudgy legs and golden curls. Frodo had experience with many faunts, looking after Pippin and Merry when they were young.

“Congratulations, Rosie!” Frodo said with a hug to Rosie. Then he embraced Samwise who was grinning like a fool. Sam had asked him what to name his first child, and Frodo was glad that she was called Elanor.

Frodo was very entranced by this hobbit child– she was almost elvish in skin tone and her golden locks were evident even though she was only a day old. She was asleep at her mother’s bosom, peaceful and not worried.

So glad that she gets to live in a world of peace. Frodo thought inwardly. What he had gone through to bring the new generation of hobbits peace, he thought it was worth it. He hoped Sam and his cousins would have an opportunity for a big family, in which hobbits were accustomed. He was glad to be at Sam’s wedding. He hoped Merry or PIppin would do so soon too.

Sam saw that Frodo was pensive. “Master, do you want to hold Elanor?”

Frodo smiled, “I would be honored to!”

Frodo held onto Elanor and smelled the newborn scent that warmed his heart. He stared into the long eyelashes, the small lips, and elvish ears. “Why Sam, did you make an Elvish child?”

Sam blushed and said, “Well my Rosie is quite Elvish in my honest opinion!”

“Oh Sam! Must have been something you brought back from the Quest,” replied Rosie who held onto Sam’s waist and planted a kiss on his cheek at the compliment. “When did you become so sweet talking?”

“Well, my bairn has got to get her good looks from someone, and that would be you!” Sam kissed Rosie back.

Frodo was so glad for Sam’s blessing. So this moment, Frodo would remember even into the days that he went to the West. He was so glad that Sam would not be torn in two and create a family for his own.

HAPPY NEW YEAR CONT'D

periantari — Wed, 26 Mar 2025 01:55:15 GMT

:*):*(:*):*(

Fandoming for the next half hour by squeeing and crying.... don't mind me but yeah

#bestmoviesevermade

Happy Gondorian New Year!

periantari — Wed, 26 Mar 2025 01:43:07 GMT

or Tolkien Reading Day. Frodo has completed his task! Sauron is defeated. The best new year, methinks for i've done so much in past years to celebrate.

:D I was rereading Houses of Healing and in search of good post-Quest angsty fic (well reading one right now on SoA and it's hitting the spot but more fics would be great as well)

ALso happy birthday to Grey_wonderer! (3/24) <3

This is a birthday mathom for her (unedited so feel free to point out grammatical issues and the like.

Post quest ficlet (Merry and Pippin)

“Are you going to bury me?”- Merry, RotK

Still Pippin remembered that moment like it was yesterday whenever Merry looked melancholy and had a faraway look in the month of March, Pippin immediately tried to cheer him up with random news of the Shire, news about Diamond, of their parents, of going back to the Shire where all was good, or they really believed they had succeeded in making a difference in the wider world of Middle-earth.

But sometimes, Pippin also tossed and turned in bed, thinking of the darker times of the Quest, of being captured by orcs, being suffocated by Old Man Willow, and of course how insane Denethor looked before he committed suicide, and how he was almost too late to save Faramir. His anxiety would keep him up but then sunrise came, and he went back to the presence because the following morning, Merry was there for him as if he knew how he felt without him having to say anything.

Sometimes, he and Merry would ride from Crickhollow back to Bag End half the time in silence because in those moments in March, many years after Frodo had departed, they would know without words how much pain they felt, losing their closest cousin to the Tol Eressae, thinking about how things have changed and they have grown, but not without sacrifice.

“He will be healed in Tol Eressae. It is a blessing that he took Queen Arwen’s spot. He and Bilbo will live long and prosper,” Gandalf had told them before he left. They had gathered together when they had known something was up when Frodo was almost always in his study and always writing as if he was on some type of deadline.

“But why can’t he do so in the Shire,” asked Merry angrily.

Pippin remained silent and just held onto Merry’s shaking shoulder. He thought it unfair too but he would comfort Merry to say that it was for the best. “We must believe that it’s for the best,” He did his best to remain optimistic. Now what would they tell Sam? Could he ever understand?

He knew in his heart that some things time could not mend. Sometimes, during anniversaries, he saw it in Merry, how the nightmares were more fierce and he was reminded of how Merry looked the same way when he was taken back from the Fields of Cormallen, pale, shivering, almost seemed like death had taken his cousin. He gulped and knew he had to be there for Merry whenever the spell passed. Merry had been afflicted with the Black Breath twice, after all, and Merry was always the one to take care of others before himself.

Kind of like Frodo, thought Pippin to himself. But then he remembered Aragorn’s words in the Houses of Healing, “His grief he will not forget; but it will not darken his heart, it will teach him wisdom.” And wisdom Merry did show, during the Battle of Bywater, to rebuild the Shire with Sam, to train himself to be the Master of Buckland in which Uncle Saradoc didn’t waste any time to prepare his son once he returned from the Quest.

And thus, there were more times in the Shire which required each of their leadership. They had indeed grown and matured and taken on not only their respective titles in the Shire, but also they were tied to Gondor and Rohan since they were appointed as knights.

But one night about four years after Frodo had left, Pippin saw that Merry was in one of his nightmares and revived him by some athelas and gentle speech.

“Wake Merry, it is just a dream, you are safe! Merry, you are all right!”

Sweat drenched and shaking, Merry smiled wanly at Pippin but returned the hug that he gave him and after a while, he shared with Pippin his feelings. “Yes, I know we are safe. I am not sure why I still dream about being left behind in Rohan, about the time when I was waiting for you all to recover in Cormallen…” he trailed.

“You were the bravest, Merry,” Pippin replied quietly. “Do believe that it was a tough time and allow yourself to heal. We are all alright. We went there and back again like Bilbo, and I am here for you always.”

“Thanks Pip. As am I.”

The next day, they rode off in song and story and wherever they went, other hobbits and family wanted to know how brave they were during the Quest. They told the best stories, were the life of the party, but they never forgot to mention Frodo and Sam- for they were the bravest to take the Ring to the heart of Mordor and were the reason they were here today.

Happy Birthday Aragorn! (3/1)

periantari — Sun, 02 Mar 2025 03:44:51 GMT

"I would have guided Frodo to Mordor and gone with him to the end; but if I seek him now in the wilderness, I must abandon the captives to torment and death. My heart speaks clearly at last: the fate of the Bearer is in my hands no longer. The Company has played its part. Yet we that remain cannot forsake our companions while we have strength left. Come! We will go now. Leave all that can be spared behind! WE will press on by day and dark!" -Aragorn, The Departure of Boromir

Merry discussion on TORN

periantari — Sat, 01 Mar 2025 04:50:55 GMT

I was tasked with covering Merry in Rotk. Felt like i rushed this but here it is, a little reading guide analysis thing for Merry in RotK. He had many fine moments in there so we are highlighting them in here in a non squee-ish fashion. I think i had a crush on Merry for a while (well i love all my hobbits but he has got to be one hobbit i relate with. <3)

Merry discussion of growth in Return of the King* A New Kind of Courage

To state that Merry had grown is an understatement. Even in Two Towers, we had seen him deal with the orcs, get through the battle at Isengard and still be able to adapt pretty well with Pippin by his side.

Now things have changed in Return of the King, where we see him sundered by Pippin. For the first time, we do not see them together. How does Merry fare without his best friend? How does he fare without Aragorn, Legolas and Gimli when they chose to go to the Paths of the Dead.

Being Left Behind

One of the most interesting things I love to read about is the fact that Merry was left behind from the Fellowship and he kept on mentioning that he did not want to be left behind.

[quote]”Don’t leave me behind! I have not been of much use yet; but I don’t want to be laid aside, like baggage to be called for when all is over. “[/quote]

[quote]

All the same he had been lonely, and never more so than now at the day’s end. He wondered where in all this strange world PIppin had got to; and what would become of Aragorn and Legolas and Gimli. Then suddenly like a cold touch on his heart he thought of Frodo and Sam. ‘I am forgetting them!’ he said to himself reproachfully. ‘And yet they are more important than all the rest of us. And I came to help them; but now they must be hundreds of miles away, if they are still alive.” He shivered.” [/quote]

I bring this quote up because it’s the first time Tolkien mentioned the characters thinking about other characters. Sam did so at the beginning of Book 6, Tower of Cirith Ungol, but i like to touch on this passage because Merry’s thoughts are on everyone. We do not have any character being introspective like that. Is that part of his “left behind” feelings that we get a slice of what he is thinking and missing of the other characters. Tolkien usually leaves the narration to the one who is observing the most. Is Tolkien using Merry to observe all the other characters?

We do see him being left behind but fortunately had great company with Theoden and Eowyn. Merry was so glad that the King paid attention to him and gave him a pony that he swore service to the King. Theoden mentioned that he be his esquire and Merry “filled with love for this old man, knelt on one knee, and took his hand and kissed it.” “Receive my service if you will”

[b]

We read that Pippin also swore allegiance to Denethor- why do you think Tolkien would see the importance that the hobbits align their interest in this way? How do Pippin and Merry know the importance of aligning their interests with these two great countries?
Discuss a little about Eowyn and Merry’s similarities of being left behind and the ways that we underestimate them. IN what ways have they been “left behind” and how does that affect their motivations to join the war in Gondor? [/b]

The ultimate act of courage

One of the climaxes of Return of the King is no doubt the slaying of the Witchking by Merry and Eowyn. It is a great moment where Eowyn stands up to the Nazgul[quote] “But no living man am I! You look upon a woman.You stand between me and my lord and kin. Begone, if you be not deathless! For living or dark undead, I will smite you, if you touch him.”[/quote]

And Eowyn did give the last deathly blow and with MErry piercing the Nazgul’s knee and together they fought off one of the deadliest foes of Middle-earth.

This quote illustrates Merry’s change in courage because he had been so fearful up till now.

[quote] Pity filled his heart and great wonder, and suddenly the slow-kindled courage of his race awoke. He clenched hi shand. SHe should not die, so fair, ans so desperate! At least she should not die alone, unaided.” [/quote]

[b]

We often hear about hobbits’ courage slowly being kindled. IN what other instances in the book do we hear this? Would there be another way in which Merry would be motivated to help?
Unlike the movies, we hear Merry say the last words to King Theoden. How powerful was this moving last lines with Theoden and how did it cement the relationship that the hobbits have with Rohan?
Tolkien always writes with purpose. How fitting was it that the sword of the Dunedain which battled the North-kingdom was used to kill the Witchking here after all the years of battle that was done?[/b]

Houses of Healing

Merry in the Houses of Healing says some wise things once he is awake. I always find this quote the wisest he’s ever been.

"It is best to love first what you are fitted to love, I suppose: you must start somewhere and have some roots, and the soil of the SHire is deep. Still there are things deeper and higher; and not a gaffer could tend his garden in what he calls peace but for them, whether he knows about them or not. I am glad that I know about them a little." -Merry

[b]What accounts for his change after being healed by Aragorn? What are your thoughts on this quote and what does it mean?[/b]

Merry is again left behind as Pippin gets a chance to fight at the Black Gate. He has other ways to shine as he attempts to heal Faramir and Eowyn emotionally. Some may say that he moved the ball forward with getting Faramir more interested and vice versa.

[b]Do you think Tolkien meant for Merry to be there to heal Eowyn and Faramir especially since all three were inflicted with the Black Breath? IN what ways did they heal together? [/b]

The Scouring of the Shire

The most important way in which we see Merry grow is what he did when he returned to the Shire. It was described that Merry was the real leader in making change happen and to rally the hobbits for the Battle of Bywater.

[b]What ways did Merry help move the hobbits to action? How do you think he could do so instead of Frodo who seemed like he did not want any part to give blows to others? Why was Frodo all right to take the backseat and let Merry take charge?[/b]

[quote]“But if there are many of these ruffians, it will certainly mean fighting. You can’t rescue Lotho, or the Shire, just by being shocked and sad, my dear Frodo.” [/quote]

[b]IN what ways was Merry most suitable to organize and rally the hobbits in the stand against Saruman and the ruffians? How has his growth throughout the Quest prepared him for this moment? From his laying out his plans, to rallying the hobbits, to getting the ruffians in a trap and finally fighting off the largest ruffian, we see Merry at his best and bravest. [/b]
Later, Merry goes on to the Master of Buckland and also the authors of Herblore of the Shire and known for his Reckoning of Years in which he discusses the relation of the calendars of the SHire and Bree and those of Rivendell, Gondor and ROhan. He also wrote Old Words and Names in the Shire. He represents the Shire in the wider world along with Pippin. Do you think he may have used this Quest to flex his organizing and also leadership skills?

There is a reason why Merry and Pippin went on this Quest and also were the heirs to their respective powerful hobbit families and their wisdom and growth is very evident. What do you think of their influence and power? Is it suitable that since Frodo was too hurt from the Quest to stay that his kinsmen can continue to make sure that the Shirefolk stay relevant in the Fourth Age?

Merry also had strong bonds with Eowyn and Eomer in Rohan, Eowyn frequently sending gifts over to him. We do also hear that Merry and Pippin are buried alongside Aragorn in the future. THerefore, the Shire gets full protection from the King and of course, held in high respect in all of Middle-earth.

The influence of Merry is fairly obvious and we can see even from the beginning in “A Conspiracy Unmasked “ with him helping Frodo organize his departure from the Shire, to helping the Shire rid themselves of Saruman’s ruffians, to healing the Shire with Sam, he is one of the most important and influential hobbits. His growth and maturity is evident from being left behind from the Fellowship and needing to adapt to that, to helping Eowyn slay the Witch-king. He is eventually the Master of Buckland but also author of a lot of books and this goes to show us how “Magnificent” he really is.

Bring me Sunshine prompt

periantari — Wed, 26 Feb 2025 03:43:32 GMT

generated 5 drabbles.

4 out of 5 posted within

The First Obstacle

It has been a long time since he had felt the warmth of the sun. The Barrow had left him cold and even though Bombadil’s song brought him back to present, Pippin felt scared and for the first time since leaving the Shire, some doubt had crept into his heart about the journey he had promised to partake in.

He hurried along to catch up with the other hobbits as they stayed in Bombadil’s home for the night. The warmth of the home, Goldberry’s song brought him back to better spirits, and he felt winter lifted. Joy and hope returned.

…

Recovery in Rivendell

When Frodo woke in Rivendell, he felt warmer and less cold than in the fortnight that he had been wounded almost fatally. He shuddered to think of those dark times, but Gandalf, Sam and his cousins’ attention brought him to the present and he felt more heartened and at peace than he did for a long time.

Rivendell was not only a place for song and poetry, but also brought back aspiration into Frodo’s heart, and he felt even more invigorated to be reunited to a long missed relative.

Bilbo!

His worries disappeared as he embraced his dear long-lost hobbit.

…

Harthad Uluithiad

Even the stoutest hobbit felt all hope dissolve when he thought his master had died. How could he go on without Mr. Frodo? How could the wisest expect ole Samwise to go on?

And finish he must because he was all that was left of the Fellowship at that moment.

He reluctantly said goodbye to his master, kissed him one last time.

Overhearing the orcs when they arrived to say that his master was not dead made him less doubtful of what had to be done.

Doubt melted away, hope returned. He had to finish the job with his master.

…

Overcoming the Black Breath (200 words)

Long had his dreams been dark. Merry felt like he had been swept in darkness, forever being cold and lost in an undertow of doubt, uncertainty and despair. But he awoke to the smell of athelas, and old friends looked anxiously upon him. The dark dreams disappeared.

“I was so worried for you, Merry- how are you feeling?” Pippin asked

“I am fine. I am hungry, what is the time?”***

But hunger made him think of his pipe as well and of King Theoden, what a pity that the kindly King that had been lost in battle.

Merry frowned. “I …I don’t think I'll smoke again.”

“You shall smoke and think of him,” said Aragorn. “Face the sunshine and not let the Black Breath overtake you again.”

And Merry’s thoughts turned positive, for he was grateful for being alive. The darkness abated entirely and wisdom replaced his anxiousness, and he thought about how important it was to love first what was fitted to be loved and that he had to start somewhere.

But he shook off his unexpected pensiveness and asked Pippin for his pipe again. He chased sunshine by going back to the familiar of how he remembered home.

** from RotK

From Small Things Big Things Come

periantari — Thu, 24 Oct 2024 02:50:29 GMT

“They were brought to Fangorn, and their coming was like the falling of small stones that starts an avalanche in the mountains.”- Gandalf, The White Rider

Summary: At the shores of the sea Pippin remembered the pivotal time with the orcs and Ents during the War.

“There are some things I’ve been meaning to ask you, Gandalf. Did you know that you’ll see us again after you left us with the Ents? How did you know it was wise?”

“There are some things we do not know but only feel. You and Merry were meant to go into Fangorn, the Ents were meant to be part of this war though no one knew in what capacity.”

Gandalf looked at Pippin tenderly, “My dear hobbit, you have grown. You will take care of the Shire with Sam and Merry; you will live long, prosper.”

Tears clouded as he watched Gandalf depart.

drabble+6 words.. (is that still a drabble? ;) And the quote above is gold, just gold.

Late Sept 22 birthday tribute and for the "Fallen Leaves" challenge

periantari — Mon, 30 Sep 2024 02:58:18 GMT

Have something else cooking but not ready to post. I was thinking about our hobbits on hobbit day but was not online. Wrangling the young ones take a lot out of you ;)

Frodo thinks about Bilbo annually.

Every year the damp leaves on the ground reminded Frodo of Bilbo’s birthday party where he departed from the Shire seemingly forever. When September 22nd approached, he toasted to Bilbo. His cousins and friends would ask him why he would.

“Do you even know where he is?”

“Why would you keep this tradition?”

“Why would he depart like a crazy hobbit? I knew he was always crazy.”

Frodo would just shake his head and smile within; he knew that his eccentric cousin was still alive. He felt convinced, and one day he would follow in his footsteps and find Bilbo.

Update on SoA and Ao3 on my long fic

periantari — Mon, 30 Sep 2024 02:26:08 GMT

and probably hopefully get inspired to close it out soon?

RL is kinda busy nowadays... but it's getting colder which means the timeline is about right alongside where the fic is going as well.

Chapters 13, 14 up

Stories of Arda - Lord of the Rings Fan-Fiction Archive

storiesofarda.com

Labyrinthe

periantari — Thu, 29 Aug 2024 02:21:12 GMT

On a roll, on a roll....(with drabbles...for good or bad ;)

For the tolkien100 "In your Dreams" challenge

A tumultuous, intertwining endless maze of despair pulled him closer to the abyss. It was hot, suffocating and there was no chance to breathe.

He found that he was struggling to see the light. He had already lost his friends, his brother. What was there still to live for? Osgiliath was destroyed, Minas Tirith was surrounded. All he could see was defeat.

Suddenly there was a different scent, a light that pulled him back to consciousness and another image appeared. A kind, kingly man was before him. Less painful. He took a breath and was lifted out of the darkness.

Updated "Relapse" at SoA

periantari — Wed, 28 Aug 2024 10:55:12 GMT

Stories of Arda - Lord of the Rings Fan-Fiction Archive

storiesofarda.com

It is up to Chapter 21 actually just taking some time to upload. :) Now two more chapters are added so up to chapter 13. (i'm getting there but i must say the muse stopped at Chapter 21...)

Summer Thunderstorms

periantari — Tue, 27 Aug 2024 02:59:40 GMT

But this came from the muse after tolkien100 put "Summer thunderstorms" as the prompt

The August thunderstorm caught the hobbits off-guard; each was deep in thought.

Merry thought about Rohan and King Theoden, wondering wistfully when he would return again.

Pippin was eager to be homeward bound after almost a year of being away.

Sam looked anxiously at his master who looked still uneasy but what for, he could only guess.

And Frodo wondered about Bilbo but mostly about the Shire in which his heart lies.

There was trouble as they ran into Saruman who looked sour and vengeful. Frodo wondered about his words.

Raindrops did not abate as they turned north towards Rivendell.

i'm a rusty drabbler. :P

Version 2

The humidity brought on dampness; soon rain was imminent. Thunder pounded and lightning zig zagged in front of them. Rain was unceasing, dampening spirits of a smooth homecoming.

The hobbits welcomed the change, for the stifling heat made them quite uncomfortable as they kept riding north towards Rivendell and home.

But the rain did not bring solace especially with the surprising encounter with Saruman.

The dampness of the air after the pouring rain only gave slight comfort. It felt suffocating.

Frodo’s heartbeat matched the constant pitter-patter of the rain. The uneasiness that Saruman’s words spoke kept gnawing at his conscience.

After the funeral, heavy rain kept pouring in Rohan. It seemed that the sky too, was mourning the loss of King Theoden.

Eowyn kept thinking about the good times with her uncle and all the caring ways in which Theoden had raised her and Eomer.

“I would have you smile again not grieve for those whose time had come.”**

She remembered his words, but she could not feel solace. Tears kept pouring from her eyes. Theoden was like a father to her.

Then, she felt someone by her side. It was Faramir. His eyes were gentle, understanding. All he did was hold her at the moment.

And she was grateful for that sweet embrace.

**From movie RotK, word count does not include the quote.

(and last one is tribute for Theoden (Bernard Hill) for his passing this past May. (And i'm still an unabashed Faramir/Eowyn fan apparently ) :P

TORN discussion -Courage of Hobbits

periantari — Thu, 25 Jul 2024 05:12:29 GMT

7. "Evolution of hobbits and how their seed of courage had been awakened: The growth of courage in the the 'Quest Hobbits,'"

There is a reason why Tolkien wrote his humble hobbits to be the heroes in his story. Tolkien always thought well of his hobbits and sprinkled in his writing the importance they served. He also wrote in his letters that he characterized the most with hobbits “I am in fact a Hobbit (in all but size). I like gardens, trees and unmechanized farmlands; I smoke a pipe, and like good plain food (unrefrigerated), but detest French cooking; I like, and even dare to wear in these dull days, ornamental waistcoats. I am fond of mushrooms (out of a field); have a very simple sense of humor (which even my appreciative critics find tiresome); I go to bed late and get up late (when possible). I do not travel much. –Letters of JRR Tolkien

Therefore, it is important to have a discussion about the instances of how the hobbits were transformed in the Quest and the theme of bravery throughout the Quest is apparent.

We will cover the topic in three parts. We will explore the hobbits’ actions in the Fellowship and see how it has matured in Two Towers and Return of the King.

As we can see in the beginning of Fellowship, we learn that hobbits are peace-loving and do not submit to conflict that easily. They do not want to learn about the wider world and are content in their corner of Middle-earth.

How and why does Frodo change once he hears about Mordor and the One Ring with Gandalf?

First, you see Frodo’s skepticism in his ability and why he was chosen. “I do really wish to destroy it! Or well, to have it destroyed. I am not made for perilous quests. I wish I had never seen the Ring! Why did it come to me? Why was I chosen.”

In which Gandlaf answers that they can’t answer these questions. HOw much does fate have to do with Frodo obtaining the Ring from Bilbo?

Let’s compare Frodo’s reluctance to when Bilbo was also “forced” to go on the Quest of Erebor. Both Baggins did not want to go on a Quest and would be forever changed because of it.

I always found this quote from Frodo interesting which makes him different from other hobbits:

“I should like to save the Shire, if i could-though there have been times when I thought the inhabitants too stupid and dull for words and have felt that an earthquake or invasion of dragons might be good for them. But I don't feel like that now. I feel that as long as the Shire is left behind, safe and comfortable, I shall find wandering more bearable.”

Why does Frodo think that his Shire is safe if he goes away to “save” it? WIth this thinking, how does returning to the Shire in shambles make it all the more painful for him to know what he tried to save the Shire but possibly not for himself?
Why does Sam follow along so quickly? What do we know about Sam so far that qualifies him a good sidekick to Frodo?

One thing I have noticed upon rereading is that Sam was always different from the other hobbits because he was curious about Elves and the outside world unlike other hobbits. Frodo and Sam already are characterized differently from the inwardly looking hobbits to actually care about life beyond the Shire.

We get to see bravery exhibited when Merry, Pippin, and Fatty explain their intentions and plan to Frodo in “A Conspiracy Unmasked” one of my favorite chapters.

Merry has a plan of making it seem that Frodo was moving to Crickhollow, Pippin and Fatty are brave enough to play their parts in accompanying Frodo to Rivendell.

Why do you think Merry and Pippin want to go on the Quest with Frodo? Do they think it’ll be a dragon chasing Quest like Bilbo’s? What do you gather in this fifth chapter to show qualities different from say Fatty? How do we think Fatty differs from the other hobbits in his reluctance to go on the Quest?

We see real change starting to happen in FOg in the Barrow-downs when Frodo is faced with his first challenge where his friends are captured by the Barrow-wight . He could’ve left them but he tries to save them.

“But the courage that had been awakened in him was now too strong: he could not leave his friends so easily. He wavered, groping in his pocket, and then fought with himself again; and as he did so the arm crept nearer. Suddenly resolve hardened in him, and he seized a short sword that lay beside him, and kneeling he stooped low over the bodies of his companions.” The hand broke off.

Tom Bombadil appears and helps the hobbits out but in this instance, Frodo shows hobbit courage.

My favorite chapter that was butchered by the movies but always saved in the books is how Frodo acted in the chapter the “Flight to the Ford”. As we know he was stricken by the Witch-king using a Morgul Blade that was quickly sapping his strength and turning him into a wraith. Frodo resists that power for two weeks and also resists till the end at the Bruinen Ford against the wraiths.

Where did his willpower to withstand these evil forces come from?

Throughout the chapter, you can see that his friends, athelas, steadfast hope help him get through two weeks of trudging to find the hard to find Rivendell. What else helped Frodo get through two weeks between Weathertop to Rivendell?

There are many instances where it is inferred that Frodo was “falling into shadows” and was “increasingly being affected by the Morgul wound” –This chapter really shows his resilience and his strong will to not give in. I would say it illustrates beautifully why he is the Ring-bearer and that this incident has only made him all the stronger. As we find out in “Many Meetings”, this Morgul wound would usually become fatal and for him to bear it for seventeen days and mortal men usually die from it.

Hobbits throughout the story have shown their mettle and strength as found in the example of all the hobbits pulling through with their burdens heavy and the pace being quick for they had to escape from the pursuing Ring-wraiths. Frodo definitely shows spirit and endurance here in this chapter especially in his last stand against the Ring-wraiths. “By Elbereth and Luthien the Fair, you shall have neither the Ring nor me!”

Frodo’s stand against the Black Riders: is this an example of his change in our hobbit hero's character or confidence or both? And does this act redeem him of putting on the Ring in the previous chapter?
Do you think the other hobbits would fare better or worse than Frodo? For example, if Sam had been afflicted with the Morgul wound, would he survive? Did the Morgul wound only inflict men to die?

Contrast this chapter to how Frodo eventually falls deeper into the power of the Ring. We read glimpses of this in Two Towers but after his capture at Cirith Ungol, we hear less of Frodo’s point of view, but rather Sam’s point of view of all that occurs.

Therefore, Frodo’s courage and bravery shows a huge arc of being able to get through to Mordor till the last second, still bearing the Ring. He does not return to the Shire as the hobbit he once was.

We see Frodo’s next courageous step in the “Breaking of the Fellowship” in which we see him just plain scared to go ahead to make the step to Mordor rather than Gondor but Boromir made him decide to break with the Fellowship due to the Ring’s increasing power to corrupt the Fellowship.

Do you think Frodo should’ve decided earlier and told the Fellowship his intentions? Why or why not?
Sam rightly guesses his mind and goes after Frodo in Parth Galen. He had always meant to follow his master. Where does his courage come from? Plain faithfulness or a bit more?

We will talk more about Frodo and Sam later but we will turn to Merry and Pippin in Book 3 now.

The main display of courage for Merry and Pippin is how they dealt with the Uruk-hai and the Ents in Book 3.

The Uruk-hai chapter is mainly from the point of view of Pippin who regains consciousness first and did three main things that helped with his and Merry’s survival. He cut off his bonds early, left his brooch for Aragorn to find, helped Merry regain strength through giving him some lembas and guided both of them to Fangorn.

Pippin really grew in this chapter.

Where do you think his practical ideas came from? Can we contribute this quick thinking to his Tookish blood in him? WE do know that Tooks were the most adventurous and more ambitious and adventurous than other Hobbits, with a reputation for unusual behavior . Can we deduce it’s because of this that Pippin was starting to establish himself in the Quest?
Did this same quick thinking led Pippin to be curious about the palantir and its use in the “Palantir” chapter later in the book? We know how much looking in the palantir threw off Sauron who was still inwardly looking but he knew nothing of what happened with Saruman and his ploy in Rohan and taking the hobbits across the plain.
Pippin then goes to Minas Tirith with Gandalf and does some key actions there. He pledged allegiance to Denethor- did the guilt of Boromir led him to give his service to Gondor? Did he knew it’ll serve him well in the future if he did this?
He saves Faramir by disobeying Denethor and rallying Beregond to help him. How did this action positively affect the fate of Gondor and MIddle-earth? How did he know of the importance of doing this?
Pippin closes book 5 in his point of view as he slays the troll that struck Beregond but he loses consciousness himself being knocked down by the troll himself.

Merry and his growth with courage:

I think Merry shows his courage in different ways. There is something about being left behind that makes it hard. We always focus on characters who do more in terms of action but Merry shows “a new kind of courage” ever since he was left behind by Gandalf and Pippin in Rohan, left behind by Aragorn, Gimli and Legolas when they went to the Paths of the Dead. He still steadfastly wants to ride along with Rohan and forms relationships with Eowyn and Theoden.

In what ways does Merry consciously or unconsciously also set himself up for a good future between the Shire and Rohan?

Merry helps Eowyn slay the Witch-king. “Pity filled his heart and great wonder, and suddenly the slow-kindled courage of his race awoke. “

This is not the first time we hear about “slow kindled courage”. Frodo in the Barrow Downs also had a slow acting type of courage. It is interesting the Tolkien wrote about it again here. How many instances of slow-kindled courage do we see arise with our hobbits?

Merry also shows courage in the Scouring of the Shire where he led the Travelers and the hobbits against the ruffians and Saruman. He rallied the hobbits and also killed the leader of the ruffians. Merry is characterized as being practical, smart and forward looking. From his planning of how to hide the fact that Frodo was moving to being determined to not being left behind in Rivendell to his relations with Rohan, slaying the Witchking with Eowyn and finally the events of the Scouring of the Shire, we see his growth and maturity as the Quest comes to an end.

Similarly, we see Sam becoming conspirator, wizard and finally a warrior in his duel with Shelob and also being courageous to rescue his master at the Tower of Cirith Ungol. Again, we see hobbits doing the impossible if their loved one’s life is at stake. Sam’s devotion and loyalty is how Frodo made it to Mount Doom. Sam also shows devotion when he was met with the decision to either leave his master or go back to the SHire when he looked into the Mirror of Galadriel and saw that there was trouble there.

Sam was also a Ring-bearer briefly in the most dangerous part of the Quest. What made him not claim the Ring for himself at that critical moment at Cirith Ungol?

Needless to say, it was Sam who carried Frodo through the plains of Gorgoroth through plain will. “His will was set and only death could break it.”

To conclude with the four Travelers, growth from the Quest is evident. Merry, Pippin and Sam grew so that they could eventually lead the Shire. However, Frodo was too hurt from the Quest and some say that he even became “elvish” enough that he must leave the Shire since he grew too much in addition to being hurt. How each hobbit shows their courage was dependent on which characters they met and faced with what obstacles they acted according to their hobbity common sense.

i'll cover Bilbo in another post. :P ( i need to post this on the boards but feel like editing this a bit more.)

Happy Tolkien Day!

periantari — Fri, 19 Apr 2024 01:38:38 GMT

Letter 131 cont'd!

"So, proceeding, the Elves have a fall, before their 'history' can become storial . (The first fall of Man, for reasons explained, nowhere appears-- Men do not come on the stage until all that is long past, and there is only a rumor that for a while they fell under rthe domination of the Enemy and that some repented.) The main body of the tale, the Silmarillion proper, is about the fall of the most gifted kindred of the Elves, their exile form Vailnor (a kind of Paradise, the home of the Gods) in the furthest West, their re-entry into Middle-earth, the land of their birth but long under the rule of the ENemy, and their strife with him, the power of Evil still visibly incarnate. It receives its name because of the vents are all threaded upon the fate and the significance of the Silmarilli (radiance of pure light ) or Primeval Jewels. By the making of gems the sub-creative function of the Elves is chiefly symbolized, but the Silmarilli were more than just beautiful things as such. There was Light. There was the Light of Valinor made visible in the Two Trees of Silver and Gold. These were slain by the Enemy out of malice, and Valinor was darkened, though from them, ere they died utterly, were derived the lights of Sun and Moon. (A marked difference here between these legends and most others is that the Sun is not a divine symbol, but a second-best thing, and the 'light of the Sun' (the world under the sun) become terms for the fallen world, and a dislocated imperfect vision."

My thoughts within:

It is interesting to me how Tolkien viewed the Silmarils and also the fall of the Elves in the First Age regarding the Silmarils. I do not fault the elves in their entirety because they were against a power too fell and too powerful in Melkor. It was not till the end of First Age did the Valar actually helped the Elves take down Melkor and i think that was too little too late and that was at the expense of all those kingdoms in Beleriand having been defeated. It really was a tragic First Age. Yes, the First Age Elves made mistakes and i think Tolkien wrote to show what happens when you take an oath that is over your head (for the seven sons of Feanor). I do feel bad for most Elves and i'm glad though for the most hopeful story out of First Age- Beren and Luthien they won against Melkor at least once.

Turin, Thingol, Beleg and others sadly do not and depart this world after a short battle with the almighty Melkor.

First Age woes...