Stories of Arda Home Page
About Us News Resources Login Become a member Help Search

Land of Light and Shadows  by Thundera Tiger 2 Review(s)
fadagaskiReviewed Chapter: 2 on 3/24/2005
Such a huge contrast to Ch1, so it is. The introduction of the sea-longing allows a sharp contrast between the banter of before and the true meaning of Gimli and Legolas' friendship. I think Eomer, being the representation of the average reader in this story, allows us to understand something of what Legolas is feeling, or the reasons why, at least.

The simple dialogue exchange at the bottom is, while a teensy bit cliche, still a very good way of introducing proper dramatic irony, rather than foreshadowing, into the story.

It is quite amusing how Aragorn is such a leader of men, that he automatically looks to govern the Rohirrim. He doesn't do it out of spite, but just because he is a generous and powerful leader. Hehe.

Author Reply: Yet another chapter slated for revamping. Yes, the opening dialogue is cliche, and that's part of what I'd like to change about this chapter. That and the chapter itself doesn't really seem to accomplish anything aside from setting up the sea-longing. Which gets explored later, but...well, at this point it's not obvious as to WHY we're exploring the sea-longing. It just feels like filler, and that should be altered. Ah well. At least we got some Aragorn characterization in.

RochwenReviewed Chapter: 2 on 6/16/2004
Miss Tiger,


These shorter chapters at the beginnning of the story are introductory I suppose. I deeply enjoy each and every one of these. I like to have a background and setup for anything I read. Somehow, it means it's easier for me to predict what may happen and become more involved with the characters.

Though short, there was one specific quote I would like to point out: "It bothers you, doesn't it? It is a thing you cannot understand and are powerless to alter. And someday it may take him from us. And when that day comes, there is nothing that can be done to stop the forces at work within his heart."

Aragorn spoke this to Gimli, but I think it can also apply to another character. What happens when Gimli ages and grows weak? Legolas will never truly understand it. And whether he does or doesn't, he still can't halt the slow march of time. Someday Aragorn may have to tell Legolas the exact same thing.

And another quick insight. Legolas wants to sail into the West. He must wait for Aragorn and Gimli to pass first. Does that mean that he may look forward to that day? Will their deaths be seen as a mixed blessing?

We, foolish mortals that we are, will never know.

Your servant,


Rochwen


Author Reply: Hello again!

Ah yes, the first few chapters... What you have to keep in mind while reading this fic is that it was my second attempt at LotR fanfiction. The story is still going because it's such a long fic, but the first seven or so chapters were very tentative for me. After that I became more confident and the chapters became longer as I finally figured out some of the characters.

I love your comments on Aragorn's insight, because it certainly applies to how Legolas sees Gimli. Or any of his mortal friends, for that matter. In fact, you've given me a plotbunny for a fic involving Legolas and Faramir. We'll see if it develops into something more. That mixed blessing comment really got me thinking.

TT

Return to Chapter List