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The Shadow in the Past  by Itarille 2 Review(s)
Leithian Reviewed Chapter: 7 on 11/11/2024
This chapter is interesting since it provides another view of Faramir and Denethor's parting. Of course the popular view is that they did not have a healthy relationship as is evident from the final hurtful words of Denethor to Faramir. I also wonder what on Arda possessed him to say so.
I wonder what the relationship between Denethor and Prince Imrahil had been like. In the book we do not see interaction between them, and Imrahil is mentioned merely as a kinsman of Faramir. But Faramir was his sister-son, a relationship that is important in Tolkien's works. Perhaps Imrahil was close to Faramir and I imagine that Imrahil might have blamed Denethor for Faramir's injury in battle.
Will you share your views on this matter?
Thank you for sharing this beautiful story with us. Take care
Leithian

Author Reply: Thank you for sharing your thoughts! I agree that the popular view is plausible: Denethor and Faramir did not have a good relationship, and Denethor was largely to blame.
However, Tolkien does describe Denethor as a noble man who possessed nearly the full grace of Númenor.

To me, Faramir (in the book) does not appear cowered or damaged by his father. If anything, I think he gave as good as he got (albeit in a gentle manner) in his conversations with Denethor.

I think Imrahil had a close relationship with Faramir. The way he shouted "Amroth to Faramir!" as he rode onto the Pelennor, the way he bore the wounded Faramir in his arms, and his words to Denethor ("Your son has returned, after great deeds") all reflect this closeness.

shireboundReviewed Chapter: 7 on 11/9/2024
You fill in these gaps so beautifully. Poor Denethor's emotional wounds have reopened and are overwhelmeding him.

Author Reply: Thank you! I still cannot understand what had possessed him to say his last words to Faramir. His other utterances in the book, I can understand (or at least I can imagine some reasons). But the last line, it sounds like he said it with the intention to hurt Faramir.

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