Lindelea
· 8 August 2007
· Chapter 35: Jewels of Light
Constellations of light! I loved this, a beautiful picture of the ongoing rendering by the Master Sculptor. The description of Aragorn, giving himself up with trust, joy, and eagerness, was wonderful, and the contrast with Frodo was heart-breaking.
Reminds me of a conversation I had with a mom who'd had increasingly short labours to bring forth her children. Forty-five minutes, the third-to-last. Half an hour, the second-to-last. The last one was just one overwhelming push. She said the shorter the labour, the harder it was and the greater the pain. There's something to a longer labour for loosening up the muscles, or something. Chipping away in littler bits, the way you put it.
Author's reply
I am so honored you found this one beautiful, Lindelea. Aragorn has been being shaped and tested for decades now; Frodo's only truly been tested in the last year.
The likening of the necessarily shortened shaping of Frodo to the woman whose labors grew so obviously shorter each time is so apt! Thank you for sharing!
Thanks so much!
Lindelea
· 8 August 2007
· Chapter 34: Once
Powerful, and though laced with pain and despair a small spark of hope shines through (if only from the reader's perspective; he might not have had hope of healing, so worn was he, and yet we hold that hope for him).
Author's reply
Yes, there's the spark of hope allowing him to make that final decision and journey, looking forward to knowing the ability to know and appreciate life once more.
Thanks again, Lindelea.
Lovely, and each individual voice is clear and recognizable.
Author's reply
Oh, I'm so glad you find it that way, Lindelea!
Hope to come down again first of September for Meesh's birthday. Good luck till then. And I'll be homeschooling a great nephew this year.
Linda Hoyland
· 8 August 2007
· Chapter 35: Jewels of Light
What a beautiful idea! I could almost see the lights glowing as I read this.Our heroes are indeed precious jewels!
Author's reply
Oh, I'm so glad you like it, Linda. Jewels indeed, shining to light the way to the new days coming.
Thanks!
Kitty
· 7 August 2007
· Chapter 35: Jewels of Light
Love it that the first thing Gimli and Legolas managed to talk about with each other without insults and even to agree about something was just Frodo and his light of being. Gimli seeing it as a jewel is only logical, as is Legolas seeing it as a vessel filled with the light of stars, I think. And the details are fascinating, as was their similar outlook at the other members of the Fellowship. A beautiful piece, Larner!
Author's reply
Am so glad you agree about the logic of Gimli seeing it as a jewel and Legolas as the vessel. They are realizing at last that they share such a love of beauty and equal degrees of faithfulness.
Thank you so much, Kitty!
Antane
· 7 August 2007
· Chapter 35: Jewels of Light
“He’s being carved upon, as if under the hands of a far greater craftsman than I’ll ever be,” the Dwarf continued. “The great gem of his being is being polished, its facets carefully angled to catch the slightest light.”
Oh, my dear Larner, that has to be the most beautiful description I have heard of Frodo! And indeed right that the carving of the Craftsman had to be quick and sharp and painful but think of the tremendous beauty of the finished gem! I think, I hope, that is what Sam saw at the Fire, but what he saw when he went West, would have been even greater as Frodo would have still been a work in progress at the Mountain. What a moving description of the shaping of such a beloved child. And Sam not even being aware that he too is being shaped. Interesting that Frodo was aware. Can I have the honor please of this gracing my website?
Namarie, God bless, Antane :)
Author's reply
In one way Frodo had two differing powers seeking to shape him; and if the great Craftsman is hurrying to see him properly shaped, it is perhaps to keep him from being mis-shaped by the Ring and the Will that empowered it.
No, Sam isn't as aware how he himself is being shaped--but that won't last, unfortunately.
And you have my blessings to see this posted on your website. Thank you for the honor.
Andrea
· 6 August 2007
· Chapter 35: Jewels of Light
What a beautiful image you paint, Larner!
And once again you chose an unusual perspective: Gimli and Legolas, who seemed to have not much in common. But still they come to the same conclusion about Frodo, Sam and Aragorn! Wonderful!
And even if, or maybe just because dwarf and elf are so different, they make the perfect team:
“And look there--have you ever seen two Lights of such disparate origin yet so perfectly matched?”
Thank you!
Author's reply
These two are just beginning to realize how much they have in common, including their common love of beauty and respect for honor. And those three they watch most closely are those who together will be used to see the balance set right again; it's only natural they should find themselves learning to appreciate one another in their mutual appreciation of those three.
And thank you for your comments! Thank you so much.
Periantari
· 6 August 2007
· Chapter 35: Jewels of Light
HOw beautiful! So interesting to see your analogy that Frodo is a jewel being chiselled and how Legolas and Gimli perceive Frodo and Sam is right on in how i view them as well!
¡°As a vessel increasingly filled with the Light of stars,¡± admitted Legolas. ¡°It is interesting that both of us appear to see the same thing in him.¡±
That is beautiful...reminds me of what Gandalf thought about Frodo in Rivendell when Frodo first woke.
Loved that bit about Sam too~
¡°--he will be a jewel to endure. Not starlight in that one, though--he¡¯s a gem of sunlight, and Mahal rejoices to see how each new facet makes that plain.¡±
So cool to hear Gimli say this... it's as if new things are being perceived by both Elf and Dwarf in Lothlorien. :)
Author's reply
For those who are perceptive, I'd think that the dedication Frodo made to protecting the Shire and then all of Middle Earth would make the Light at the core of his being obvious to those of discrimination. Both he and Aragorn could command such loyalty so swiftly and easily.
And I've long felt that part of the reason Gimli and Legolas were chosen as members of the Fellowship was due to their own innate ability to recognize and respond appropriately to such nobility, just as Gandalf has already done.
Yes, Elf and Dwarf are truly appreciating there is more between them than ancestral disdain for one another's race. For Legolas it's in terms of the Lights with which he is most familiar; with Gimli it's the great beauty of jewels that catch and sometimes contain Light within themselves; but they are at last reaching that relationship that makes the two of them brothers indeed.
utfrog98
· 6 August 2007
· Chapter 35: Jewels of Light
Simply marvelous. Beautiful symbols.
You and Bodkin are jewels to treasure.
Author's reply
Thank you so much, utfrog98. I am honored, and I'm certain Bodkin is as well.
Inkling
· 6 August 2007
· Chapter 35: Jewels of Light
Just lovely, Larner...through just a few beautifully drawn metaphors you've conveyed so much about the budding friendship of Elf and Dwarf, and about each member of the Fellowship observed. I especially liked the passage where the light of Frodo and Aragorn is caught in the faces of Merry, Pippin, and Boromir, as planets reflect the sun. And Gimli and Legolas as perfectly matched twin stars!
Author's reply
I am so glad you appreciate this, Inkling. Somehow Frodo and Aragorn both managed to (usually) bring out the best in those they met and drew the respect and fealty of those of honor, and how could Boromir fail to respond to that in spite of his own fears?
And Gimli and Legolas became the most unlikely of brothers, complementing one another so very well in the end. Yes, perfectly matched twin stars indeed! Thank you for this image I'll now bear with me!
Inkling
· 6 August 2007
· Chapter 34: Once
This provides an interesting counterpoint to the last poem...Frodo is a lot less sure about this sailing thing than everyone else seems to be! His fears and uncertainty are very believable. I like this stanza best:
Must
I live
and find release
in a strange land
not intended for mere mortals?
Author's reply
The others may realize this is the best for their beloved friend and cousin; but it's Frodo who must give over all he's ever known about himself to actually take the ship. He's the one who goes through the transition from the familiar world to one not specifically designed for mere mortals, who is leaving behind him all that has ever defined him as an individual and his oldest and most intimate relationships.
The coming of Sam at the end and the ability to once again be able to see himself as a Hobbit of the Shire must have been quite a relief for him, I'd think.
So glad you found yourself reading these as well as the latest story.
Wow, this is beautiful, Larner! I didn't know you wrote poetry. The different voices are nicely done. I especially like the double meaning of Sam's verse, how it fits with the others even though he's talking about Rivendell.
I was going to read your newest but this caught my eye first...
Author's reply
I don't do a good deal of poetry, as it takes me HOURS to get it right, I fear. I spent several hours on this one, in fact.
Sam, Merry, and Pippin aren't aware of the gift offered Frodo, but recognize that he belongs with the Elves if he is to be able to know peace. That one comment Frodo made as they saw the green fire of the Elessar stone disappear behind them as they finally rode north into Arnor once more has ever stayed with me--the comments of the others that it was as if they were awakening from a dream while Frodo feels as if he's falling asleep once more. Obviously that parting was very difficult to him, as his relationship with Aragorn helped him feel fulfilled as nothing else did.
Sam recognized that Frodo would have to go away and openly expected he would be retiring to Rivendell with Bilbo--yet at only 53 this is very young for a Hobbit to be considering such things. Nor would I think the rest who knew and loved Frodo best would remain totally unaware that he was thinking of slipping away. Certainly once they learned from Gandalf Frodo was leaving Middle Earth it appears that Pippin and Merry set off at all speed to catch up with him so they could bid him farewell, as if they realized it was necessary. I think all of them realized Frodo was beyond what the Shire could give him.
And the lack of speaking as they traveled toward the Havens after the first joining with the Elves or as Frodo hugged the others goodbye speaks of Frodo's increasingly fragile nature as well.
Anyway, thank you for the feedback. I doubt I'll write a great deal of poetry, but this one began insinuating its rhythms into my mind as I drove to work one evening, and this is what came out.
harrowcat
· 6 August 2007
· Chapter 35: Jewels of Light
“Constellations of Light,” Now that really is imagry worth treasuring. I loved all of this Larner, especially, of course, the observations of Aragorn and Frodo.
The friendship of Legolas and Gimli is wonderful; forged out of mutual adversity and having a common goal. Friendships made on troubled paths are often the best and most lasting. I know a song to that effect but, alas, I can't remember wither the title or the composer.
Author's reply
I'm so glad the imagery of this one has clicked so well with so many, and of course the Lights of Frodo and Aragorn would be seen and recognized first, I'd think. As for Legolas and Gimli--this was when they truly appeared to begin appreciating one another. The quarreling and barbs began to be put aside as they entered Hollin, it seemed; but it was after Caradhras and Moria and the welcome to Lorien that they actually appear to have begun appreciating one another; and I've always wondered what the two of them did together for so much of that time.
I don't recognize the song, I'm afraid. Once you think of it let me know, and I'll check it out. Yes, their friendship was forged in the proper fire for a lasting relationship.
Queen Galadriel
· 6 August 2007
· Chapter 35: Jewels of Light
Wow! This is wonderful, Larner. I was hoping someone would do a story of this sort some time or other--had meant to do it myself, but original stuff has crowded in and fic will have to wait. So I'm very glad you beat me to it, because it's much more delightful now to read it than write it! :)
The imagery in this story, and especially in Gimli's dialog, is just stunning.
“Frodo, eh?” Gimli said in low tones as he stepped forward to stand by the wood-Elf’s side. Legolas was surprised to hear a tone of sadness
in the Dwarf’s voice, and turned to examine his face. There was a surprisingly gentle look in those dark eyes. “He’s being carved upon, as if under the
hands of a far greater craftsman than I’ll ever be,” the Dwarf continued. “The great gem of his being is being polished, its facets carefully angled to
catch the slightest light.”
“You see him as a jewel?” asked the Elf, his interest fully caught.
“And how else should such as I be able to perceive him?” Gimli answered simply. “I was caught by the glimpse of great Light at the core of
his being that first night in Master Elrond’s home as he sat by my father, listening avidly to the discourse, that smile of delight countered by the memory
of pain he was barely noting as he rubbed at his shoulder.” For a moment he continued his own examination of the small figure who sat alone before the
pavilion given to their use here in Lothlorien before turning his attention back to the visage of his companion. “And you--when you look on him--how do
you see him?”
“As a vessel increasingly filled with the Light of stars,” admitted Legolas. “It is interesting that both of us appear to see the same thing
in him.”
The Dwarf nodded thoughtfully. “If only it weren’t that the blades of pain were what primarily shape him,” he said with great regret. He followed
Frodo’s own gaze to where Aragorn and Boromir relaxed near to one another, talking. He gave a meaningful gesture at the former. “Now, that one, too,
is a great jewel in the shaping. But where each blow of Frodo’s shaping cuts so close to the heart it risks shattering the whole jewel, not so with Aragorn
there. He not only gives himself willingly to the blade of the Shaper, but even at times directs what dross needs next to be removed or how to better
angle the diamond chisel. And, as the shaping has been going on far longer it is easier to see how the final jewel will look. It is as if the faceting
has been going on for so long that he eagerly anticipates and bends himself to the next cutting, turning himself to best accept it, while the shaping of
Frodo at this point is necessarily concentrated to allow him to be completed far sooner.”
And I loved this, too:
As they approached the talan on which their own great house had been built the Lady Galadriel and Lord Celeborn paused, looking down at their
guests on the great lawn below them. “Their Lights are being polished,” Celeborn noted in low tones to his wife. “Each is being readied even now for
his final purpose, though it lead through the shadow of death.”
“Yea, and it has been ever so,” Galadriel sighed, then touched her husband’s arm and indicated the place from which Elf and Dwarf had been observing
the rest. “And look there--have you ever seen two Lights of such disparate origin yet so perfectly matched?”
Lord and Lady shared a look of delight and awe at the revelation, then watched as Aragorn and Sam came to join Frodo and the younger Hobbits.
“Constellations of Light,” murmured Galadriel.
Her lord husband nodded. “Light for the world of Arda to find itself by, perhaps.”
And how right they were! I'd be interested to see a sequel to this, perhaps of Gimli's thoughts on Frodo, Sam, and Aragorn after the Quest, maybe relating back to his thoughts on this day. *nudges plot bunny* :)
God bless,
Galadriel
Author's reply
Am so glad you appreciate all this, my Lady. Gimli we know was one to love and honor beauty as he found it; that he would recognize it in Frodo and Aragorn just seemed natural, although he'd speak of it in his own terms, of course.
As for after the quest--that might come, although Dreamflower set loose a number of plotbunnies yesterday that are worrying at me, and curling up to sleep amongst the Pomeranians. Heh!
Grey Wonderer
· 6 August 2007
· Chapter 35: Jewels of Light
I adore this. The fact that they describe Frodo differently and yet see the same thing in him is a measure of just how close Legolas and Gimli have grown as well as proof that there was an inner light to Frodo Baggins and it was there for all to see that would look.
Author's reply
Yes, they see the same thing even if they use different terms to describe it.
Something about Frodo bound so many of honor to him, as happened with Aragorn as well. The image of the Dwarves and Elves coming together to see Aragorn's new capital built has always intrigued me, that love of a Man and his great honor was enough to lead them to set aside their long enmity. And love of Aragorn and Frodo and growing mutual respect for one another's history of beauty and creation and the hardships they've shared at the hands of Dol Guldur and Mordor have forged a partnership that will last for the rest of Aragorn's life and beyond.
Thanks so much for the comments, Grey Wonderer.
Rayma3
· 5 August 2007
· Chapter 35: Jewels of Light
Larner,
I read your works and enjoy every one of them, but then you write a story fragment/chapter like this one and I realize again why I enjoy your writing so much. It was amazing to read how Gimli sees Frodo, Aragorn and Sam. The image of jewels fits so well into the same concept as the light of stars.
Thank you for this wonderful piece of writing
Rayma
Author's reply
Oh, thank you so very much for the great compliment, Rayma3. And that the Elves would think in terms of stars while the scion of great Dwarf kings would think in terms of jewels simply seemed most proper.
Again, thank you for your kind words and the feedback. It keeps us writing! Heh!
daw the minstrel
· 5 August 2007
· Chapter 35: Jewels of Light
What a lovely use of metaphor, Larner. You show us Aragorn, Frodo, and Sam, each in his individual light and show Legolas and Gimli too by the way they perceive the others. Just lovely.
Author's reply
Thank you so much, Daw. Elf and Dwarf are becoming the brothers they will be from now on, and Frodo, Aragorn, and Sam are being shaped for the great purpose intended for each.
And what better metaphor for a Dwarf to use than jewels, after all?
Thank you so very much!
Dreamflower
· 5 August 2007
· Chapter 35: Jewels of Light
What and interesting way for Gimli and Legolas to see them!
And I loved Galadriel's and Celeborn's observations of the observers at the end. Yes, the Fellowship was indeed a Constellation, revolving about the Ringbearer and the Future King.
Author's reply
Thank you so much, Dreamflower. In history Elves have shaped jewels as much as Dwarves have; it would be an image they can both appreciate!
And so glad you appreciate that observation shared by Lord and Lady.
Thanks again!
shirebound
· 5 August 2007
· Chapter 35: Jewels of Light
What poetry, Larner. This is incredibly moving and beautiful.
Author's reply
Thank you, Shirebound. I am honored.
Linda Hoyland
· 28 June 2007
· Chapter 34: Once
A very moving glimpse of Frodo's pain.
Author's reply
Thank you so much, Linda. To know I've touched folks emotions make it all worthwhile.
Kitty
· 27 June 2007
· Chapter 34: Once
Once again I am impressed. You caught Frodo’s thoughts rather well, and then managed to do so even in this triangle form. *bows*
Author's reply
Thank you, Kitty. This is Dreamflower's "dribble" format, sort of. I find it's rather interesting to play with, actually, and am honored you're impressed. *Bows in return.*
Antane
· 26 June 2007
· Chapter 34: Once
Here you are doing two wonderful things in a row and you said poetry came hard for you! Such dreams he had and then had to watch them all turn to dust...but for the ones of seeing his Sam and later I'm sure he did see Aragorn again and his brother-cousins. God gave him a reward in proportion to his sacrifices and endurance.
Namarie, God bless, Antane :)
Author's reply
But this one is just counting words! It's not having to watch for rhythm, rhyming and scanning as the last one was. That one was a real BEAR to write! This was very easy by comparison.
And I'm certain that the reunions and joy of the Presence was more than enough reward for all, particularly after having been given the time on Tol Eressea for healing beforehand.
Hanyatel, Antane.
Grey Wonderer
· 25 June 2007
· Chapter 34: Once
This is sad and hopeful and beautiful all at once. I really enjoyed it. Thank you.
Author's reply
Yes, although I truly love Armariel's hymn she has written for Frodo renewed to sing. It's in her collection of poems, the Voices collection. But then I love so much of her poetry, both blank verse and rhyming.
And thank you so much for the feedback.
Armariel
· 25 June 2007
· Chapter 34: Once
Teach me to sing in joy again.
He WILL...his fairy godmother(s) saw to it;)! Interesting format. Glad to see you still playing around with poetry and poetic forms. It's a special calling, fitting words together so that they sing....
~~~{~@
Author's reply
But will the Sea Witch take away that gift of song? Heh!
Yes, another poem hit, using Dreamflower's "dribble" format.
And I'm honored you find the words sing here. Thank you!
Queen Galadriel
· 25 June 2007
· Chapter 34: Once
Oh, this is a lovely companion to "Don't Linger," and this style of poetry is so cool! I don't think I've ever seen it before.
Sam,
my brother,
do not linger
long past your Rosie.
Let me die at least
once more a proper Shire Hobbit.
Oh,
sweet Creator,
grant me ease,
I beg of you.
Release me from my burden.
Relieve me of pain and loss.
Teach me to sing in joy again.
This is my favorite part. A poignant wish and prayer. It's so sad to see all these thoughts of "once" followed by "Then the Ring..." Such a seemingly small thing, yet it undid them all.
God bless,
Galadriel
Author's reply
This format that Dreamflower introduced lends itself to Frodo, as I find him, at least. And indeed the Ring destroyed so much of Frodo's hope for a life as a simple Hobbit of the Shire.
Thanks for the feedback.