He is currently less than he was, and knows not enough 'any more' of Iluvatar to appreciate that he might well become more if he has patience--and sufficient endurance and time.
Two small words stood out like beacons in this sentence, Larner. I hate depression. It closes you in, blinding you to beauty and the loving support offered.
And the plea by all these people is breath-taking. It reminds me of the biblical parable of the paralysed man. 'When he saw their faith' (NRSV) This passage is ofte of great comfort to me and also a great spur.
So, three days of withdrawal symptoms but the two chapters were worth the wait!
Author's reply
Yes, those two words are intended to be the beacons you indicated, and the tie to the Biblical tale is very beautiful and appropriate.
Work was odd during the weeks preceding and after Christmas, and I have been fighting the exhaustion of the schedule changes intended to allow some of our more tolerant folks (including me) to step in for regular staff on vacation. Am SO glad not to have to work extra days and nights in the next few weeks.
harrowcat
· 30 December 2005
· Chapter 54: 54: Preparing to Return Home
Sorry Larner I couldn't R&R while I was at home. Too much competition for the computer and a dad who doesn't really understand my addiction!
Great to see the set up for the King's Commission. I can just imagine the indignation of the Hobbits. But what really tugged at the heart-strings was Aragorn giving up the one decent picture of Frodo to Sam.
Author's reply
Oh, I can appreciate it, Harrowcat. Am glad you are free to read again. Have been working nights all week, and find it is playing havoc with my posting and reading as well.
Yes, the way is paved now for the meeting between the King and the sculptor, and we see the Hobbits' own reactions to what they were shown. You begin to appreciate why Ruvemir was so well appreciated after seeing in more detail what the original artists had envisioned.
Anyway, the next chapter is now posted and after tomorrow night I finally have four nights off. HOORAY!
Linda Hoyland
· 29 December 2005
· Chapter 55: 55: Petition Affirmed
Poor Frodo is such a perfectionist as many others would be glad simply to have survived to see such times and accept an ordeal like his takes many years to come to terms with.
I don't think there is anyone in the Shire who could help him as he doesn't want to burden Sam as he begins life with Rosie and his children.
Author's reply
Yes, in his attempts to spare others, all too often Frodo pushed away some of the love, comfort, and aid which he might have had if he'd been able to be more open. But in our pride often we try to do things ourselves we ought to allow others to help with.
Andrea
· 29 December 2005
· Chapter 55: 55: Petition Affirmed
Again, a fascinating chapter!
Maybe Frodo was reluctant to meet with Galadriel, because he knew very well that he eventually would speak and tell her all his thoughts. But in the end it helped both of them, I think. It helped Frodo to speak with someone who knows and *feels* the Sea Longing and it opened Galadriels eyes to perceive that Frodo is very special - even more special than she had thought at first.
"Just what was it that Iluvatar had wrought, allowing this one to be born into the body of a Hobbit of the Shire?" What is it indeed? Only Iluvatar knows!
The conversation between the Elves, Aragorn, Gimli and Gandalf was intriguing.
There's no doubt that the wounding with the Morgul knife was intended to start a transformation - of evil kind. There is a scene somewhere in FotR, where Gandalf observes that Frodo indeed has changed. I thought Elrond had stopped the process. Now I see, that this transformation is still in progress but it's aim was changed after the desruction of the Ring: it is evil no more!
I like the idea of giving Frodo the time he needs to appreciate that gift at last. And I love it that Gimli came to the same conclusion as Arwen.
Author's reply
It was while Gandalf looked down at Frodo in the bed in the House of Elrond that he saw a transparency about Frodo, and foresaw that he might in time become as a vessel of glass filled with light was with water, for eyes to see that could. I took that observation and used it to entitle my first two stories, in fact, and have seen others who have done much the same.
Morgoth lost the ability to create of himself, and Sauron, as a Maia, never had that ability to begin with. So, orcs were twisted from Elves and probably later from Men as well, and so on. That there might be some blessed transformation process that Eru had made available in Arda that was twisted to evil purposes in the creation of the Morgul blades seemed logical; that now that the wraithing process has been halted Frodo would have reverted to Eru's original transformation seemed logical and would explain Gandalf's vision of Frodo becoming in some way a Being of Light.
Am so glad you like the idea that going to Tol Eressea would give Frodo the chance not only to accept the metamorphosis but would come to embrace it as it allowed himself to be fulfilled where had the Morgul blade been successful he would have undergone a rending from Iluvatar instead and would have been debased and possibly destroyed. And it appears that as this chapter wrote itself (it was one of THOSE chapters) all were coming to basically the same conclusion--that Frodo needed that time.
Now I am glad Frodo told Galadriel of his troubles! It was about time for him to talk to someone who can understand it. It is so depressing to hear what he thinks of his return to the Shire, though interesting how much he has foreseen for the future. And he dreamt so early on of Tol Eressea? Even before the Quest? Interesting.
Maybe Aragorn has to have some words with Galador about matchmaking! This man is hopeless! And now he thinks probably it is his doing when Éomer weds Lothíriel and tries it even more!
It was good to see how much all these great elves care for Frodo and want to help him to heal. That is one of the gap-fillers I always wanted to read – it wasn’t fair that Tolkien told us nothing about the way how Frodo and Sam got the leave to go to the Undying Lands. Not to mention Gimli and the delayed choice of the twins. I always wanted to know more about this! To be able to write it is one great advantage of fanfiction, don't you agree?
Author's reply
If you remember the Bombadil chapter, Frodo first dreams of the rain curtain rolling back there in Bombadil's house in the Old Forest--so, yes, his foresight was kicking in there. He also dreamed of Gandalf on top of the tower of Orthanc, if I recall correctly. And now Galadriel is getting the idea that perhaps he is meant to go to Tol Eressea, I think. But Frodo did need to talk to someone else who understood his own discomfort; as a mortal, he's not understanding the Sea Longing all too well as yet.
And some folk like Galador are either hopeless romantics or are hoping to somehow manage to wangle good political matches for their unwed nobles, and I doubt Aragorn's ever going to be able to fully break Galador of the practice.
I explored the subject of how Frodo and Sam and Gimli were granted dispensation to go to Tol Eressea in "The Choice of Healing" but wanted to explore the simple mechanics of how it was done in this story. And that Glorfindel, who lives between the mundane and the blessed realm, would be able to make his plea directly as would Gandalf while others must find an intermediary such as Gwaihir or Gandalf, seemed a fun idea to explore. He's already made his plea, and is pleased as Punch that the rest are coming to the same conclusion without him having to do more than ask one little question....
Wiley Elf, isn't he?
Poor Frodo. I've thought about how darkness and certain locations and reminders of his journey might affect him, but I never thought of such things as the caress of a breeze or the sound of thunder. Such ordinary things, and yet it seems realistic that they would be disquieting to him. *sigh* I'm so glad there were so many to make the petition for him. He deserves it. God bless,
Galadriel
Author's reply
A friend counsels veterans with PTSD, and their lists of what sets off flashback moments is pretty amazing: a car backfiring; flickering lights (one guy found he had to avoid any marquees with fancy light displays during his first trip to Reno); certain songs on the radio which had been playing when they drove into a mine field; someone standing up from behind bushes; the smell of gunpowder in fireworks or capguns. Rape victims often can't bear to go past the site of where they were grabbed and/or raped, or will become stressed if someone stands in an attitude reminiscent of the rapist at the moment the realization was made this guy's going to hurt me. Holocaust survivors also found certain triggers--the sound of German being spoken; not having bread or clean water handy (Frodo's need to have water at hand is based directly on Holocaust survivor stories); certain songs associated with selections (watched Schindler's List again the other night, and the playing of records through loudspeakers or orchestras was often used by the Nazis to mask horrible processes).
And so I've chosen some of the possible triggers that Frodo might have responded to or does respond to in the story as I've written it.
And, yes, Frodo deserved such a blessing.
So...It was Galador who brought Lothriel to the attention of Eomer. That sneaky Master of Protocol. And Aragorn knew exactly what was going on too!! Loved that!! :oD
So sad though to listen in to the conversations of everyone in this chapter. So many desire of Frodo's healing, but Frodo doesn't believe he deserves it. The scene on the keel w/everyone was so very well done. That Glorfindel was the final one and the way he told them he had made his own petition to the Valar on Frodo's behalf...I could so easily see that in my mind's eye. Perfect!!
And then for Frodo to have a such a restful night and know of an easing of his heart...That was so beautifully written. Lovely part there.
As always, looking forward to the next chapter!! :o)
Author's reply
Yes, Galador scored one here.
I would think the desire for the grace to be granted for Frodo to go to Tol Eressea would be pretty universal, and that the unity of that hope for him would be felt by him that night. So glad you appreciated it so! And of COURSE Glorfindel would express his own desires last, and feel justifiably smug because he's anticipated all the others! Heh!
French Pony
· 28 December 2005
· Chapter 55: 55: Petition Affirmed
How lovely to see everyone taking Frodo's future so seriously. They care so much for him, and they give him so much love and support even when he's not there to see. That goes beyond saving-the-world gratitude -- that's true friendship, that is, and Frodo is lucky to have it.
Author's reply
Yes, it is friendsip and love. Frodo will appreciate it in the end, at least.
French Pony
· 28 December 2005
· Chapter 54: 54: Preparing to Return Home
Such lovely, bittersweet scenes of parting. And I'm glad Frodo got at least a little bit of a volcano glass souvenir.
The thing with the monument was amusing, especially Merry's comment that people who stand in "heroic" poses might get the idea from monuments. Off to read the next chapter.
Author's reply
I, too, am glad that he will receive the bird. As for the comments--have seen some statues that are so formal as to be intimidating and totally artificial, and it was fun to make fun of them a bit through Merry's comments. Thanks so much for appreciating it!
grumpy
· 28 December 2005
· Chapter 53: 53: The Grace Requested
I do like the introduction of Rustivrid, and his telling Aragorn, that some of the lords of Harad will seek out war. Brings in what happens in the King's commission.
Loved the part about King's Hallow, the lord of the eagles, and Arwin wanting to give her spot to Frodo.
Author's reply
Yes, two from other stories appear here--Rustovrid and Wasnior, and one sees the contrast between the two individuals and the peoples they represent.
And I'm so glad you appreciate the details on how Arwen came to make her plea for Frodo via Gwaihir.
Kitty
· 28 December 2005
· Chapter 54: 54: Preparing to Return Home
Ah yes, the memorial! At the time it was surely a heavy disappointment for Aragorn that the artists of Gondor weren’t able to make at least some useful drawings. It’s comforting to know he will meet Ruvemir of Lebennin some years later!
Somehow it is so sad Frodo couldn’t take the bowl with him, although he was probably right it wouldn’t survive the long way. It must’ve been a very wonderful thing!
Author's reply
The disappointment now will make the satisfaction when Ruvemir finally is met by the King all the more delightful.
Had it been packed right, the bowl would have made it; but he was probably right to find someone else to take it who would care for it, and even more so since it came from him. I have many of my mother's carnival glass bowls, and they mean a great deal having come through her from Granddaddy's collection for the most part.
And so it was that the plea offered the Valar for Frodo Baggins was made, and seconded by all among the Firstborn.
Wow. Such love... this is so beautiful.
Author's reply
Oh, thank you, Shirebound. Yes, Frodo drew love to him.
This chapter is both sad and delightful. It is sad, and will remain so, as Frodo grapples with all that seems to diminish his joy in living; yet it was delightful to see the unanmimity of purpose that was placed before the Valar, to grant Frodo an ease of his burden and a healing by his acceptance in Tol Eressea.
The various conversations were all gentle and touched with melancholy, from Merry's simple and practical request to the heart-breaking conversation with Galadriel, to the consensus at the end.
You truly are approaching the time of farewell.
Author's reply
Yes, they will leave soon. And each and all wish the best for Frodo. So glad you so appreciated the chapter.
demeter d
· 28 December 2005
· Chapter 54: 54: Preparing to Return Home
Yet another lovely chapter, Larner. So many beautiful bits. Frodo beside the tree with Arwen.The history of the Evenstar stone added a nice bit of joining the present and the past. I like the sense that both Aragorn and Arwen had been prophesied for great things. I liked the packing. Ever Frodo discounts his own worth, and ever his friends are thier to look after his interests for him. I especially liked the part about the wheelchairs. You have created a Gondorian culture very farsighted and enlightened. It would be nice if all cultures throughout history had had that level of regard for those disabled and different. Something you might like to read and compare. On fan-fiction.net, I have been reading a series of stories by a young author from Germany whose pen name is Maddy, about Eomer and Lotherial. She puts Lotherial as a healer in the Houses of Healing during the war, who meets Eomer without knowing who he is when she treats a wound for him after the Battle of Pellenor. She is very much involved with treating several of the Rohirrim who were injured in the battle. Later, after they have been formally introduced, and Eomer and party get ready to take their wounded and return home, Maddy's Lotherial persuades Eomer to address his troops and give them sort of a pep talk. She wants him to persuade them that they will still be needed at home, even with their disabilities. She writes a very nice speech where an at first uncertain Eomer rallies to the need and tells his subjects that their wisdom and experience will still be needed, and together they must find a way to deal with their new handicaps. I believe the name of that particular story in the series is "Imrahil's Daughter." Again, Lovely chapter, Larner!
Author's reply
What can I say? I've been involved in working with the disabled for most of my life, even before I went to college to study to become a special education teacher. Advocacy is in my very blood, and you'll note I often write the need for awareness into my stories.
I've seen the story "Imrahil's Daughter," and I think it may well be on this site as well. I'll have to give it a read when I have time. Glad to see others also are writing works advocating inclusion and mainstreaming our disabled brothers and sisters and children and elders.
And thanks so much for the words of appreciation.
Andrea
· 28 December 2005
· Chapter 54: 54: Preparing to Return Home
Once again I find that learning English is fascinating. I've never heard the word "kist" before, but I know a German word, "Kiste", and the meaning is exactly the same - chest. Very interesting!
"Before the sitting was done the Hobbits were all ready to draw the swords they’d been told to wear and use them on the artists, while at least one of the sculptors had a very strong urge to take one of the swords from one of the Hobbits and use it on Sam particularly, who was not being especially cooperative in any case."
LOL! I can very well imagine that scene! Hobbits with shoes? No way!
The scene with Arwen was wonderfully done, including the history and purpose of the Evenstar gem.
"His eyes seemed relieved immediately, and he looked at the Queen with mild surprise, his thanks in his expression." A very powerful stone!
Author's reply
"Kist" was one of the Germanic words added to English during the Saxon invasions. It is rarely used, but usually indicates a trunk-shaped chest with lid, sometimes quite deep, often used for storage of clothing or weapons. It is used fairly often by Rosemary Sutcliff in her works of historical fiction set in early Britain, and I think it would have been appropriate to the culture of Minas Tirith, although perhaps even more so to the Rohirrim. (Rosemary Sutcliff is another of my favorite British authors--I have well over twenty of her books, which are superbly written.)
Glad you enjoyed the descriptions for the sitting for portraits intended for the memorial, and the frustration felt on both sides.
I admit I made up the history of the Evenstar gem, and have so described it before, now making that description perhaps more clear than I did in previous works. And I think that from the first Frodo would begin to appreciate that the gem gave him some relief.
Thanks for the review.
Linda Hoyland
· 28 December 2005
· Chapter 54: 54: Preparing to Return Home
I love the way you contrast the different personalities of the Hobbits here and the way you link to "The King's sculptor".
Author's reply
Yes, I have deliberately helped set things up for Ruvemir in "The King's Commission." And I do think that each of the four Hobbits would think differently about what they packed and why. So glad you appreciate it, Linda.
Queen Galadriel
· 27 December 2005
· Chapter 54: 54: Preparing to Return Home
I think it would bring great joy to have a hand in the project of designing helps for those who lost limbs or other things in war. And I do pity the poor hobbits in the ordeal of the monument! :-) Shoes?! Oh, for goodness sake! The description of the preparations for the return journey is very vivid, even down to the little glass bird. What a thoughtful gift, and just like Sam.
God bless,
Galadriel
Author's reply
As a special ed teacher, I've had to study the rehabilitation movement. Here in the U.S. it took off after World War I, when strides in medicine and surgery allowed many to survive who previously would have died. That the presence of Aragorn and the sons of Elrond might have had a similar effect, and several found they were as capable as ever if incapacitated in what they would realize were minor ways and therefore would realize they might just do something to increase their ability to function normally seemed logical.
And am so very glad you appreciated the presence of the glass bird. Yes, it's just like Sam.
Dreamflower
· 27 December 2005
· Chapter 54: 54: Preparing to Return Home
And so we see how things were set up for Ruvemir! What a shame he wasn't available then. But somehow, I don't think even Ruvemir's considerable gift would have been able to sway Frodo, not as he was feeling at that point.
I do love the different remarks the hobbits made to the "artists", LOL, but my favorite was Merry with his practical Brandybuck insight:
“Why would you want me to stand like that?” Merry asked one sculptor when he was asked to hold his hands in a particular position.
“It is a common attitude for a heroic monument,” the sculptor assured him.
“But I’ve only seen one Man who’s ever stood like that, and all consider him affected. Is it from your idea of a heroic monument the Man got the idea to stand that way?”
*snigger*
The scene of Arwen giving Frodo the Evenstar was beautiful. It is going to do so much to ease his burden, though it can never cure it, it will at least help alleviate some of the symptoms.
I do like the accounts of the packing. So thoughtful of Gandalf to make room for the things that the hobbits will miss, and of Sam--though of course, packing things for Frodo is already a habit of his. I also like Merry's and Pippin's cavalier attitude towards their wardrobes. I suspect part of that is the desire to keep wearing their livery as long as possible. Though they are not especially vain, they *are* proud of their status as Knights, and certainly of no mind to discard it anytime soon.
One question: I am unfamiliar with the term "kist". From the context I assume a storage chest of some sort? What is the origin of this word?
I can tell that this is beginning to wind down, as they prepare to leave. I hope that you will continue to show the journey for a while yet, though.
Author's reply
So glad you appreciate the descriptions and that they appear appropriate to the particular characters. I've seen some statues that had me going, "What?" as the individuals depicted would have been MOST uncomfortable to have had to stand like that in real life, so it was fun to play with that in the descriptions of the work being done.
"Kist" is a word that was introduced into English during the Saxon invasions of England in the fifth through seventh centuries. Rosemary Sutcliff used it frequently in her historical novels set in early Britain, and I tend to borrow from her language usages, I'll admit. Certainly Tolkien would have been aware of it. I see the use of such deep chests for storage as being more common in Gondor than perhaps drawers, although perhaps the use of kists and the word might have been more common among the Rohirrim.
Anyway, be aware I tend to push the works of Sutcliff--a marvelous writer with a gift for language usage. Her book "Sword at Sunset" is, as far as I am concerned, the definitive Arthurian history. She writes his life and time much as it would have been truly lived at the time. Very historically aware, Sutcliff was.
This will continue through the return to the Shire, although focus will change somewhat. The motherly nuzgul is insistent she belongs here, I find.
shirebound
· 27 December 2005
· Chapter 54: 54: Preparing to Return Home
He held out his hand and took Frodo’s in his, wishing he could keep Frodo ever thus, here beneath the White Tree where he so appeared to belong. But, if Arwen’s plea was successful, there would be another, greater, far older White Tree to shelter the Hobbit, one he could think on whenever he came beneath this one.
It's wonderful to think of the connnection between the White Trees, and those who feel a spiritual affiity for them. They're like portals through which thoughts, feeling, and blessings can be conveyed over distance, and through love.
Author's reply
We know that the White Tree symbolized the rightful lords of Numenor and Gondor and their ties to the Undying Lands and the honor displayed toward them by the Elves and Valar of the Undying Lands. That there would be a psychic connection between the trees seems logical to me, and thus a means at times for certain from the mortal lands to know communion with those in Tol Eressea who frequent the shade of the White Tree. At least it was this caprice that led me to describe the moments of awareness as I have.
Andrea
· 27 December 2005
· Chapter 53: 53: The Grace Requested
"And we hope time to prepare for when he must indeed leave the bounds of Arda, that his full Light be restored before that day."
That's exactly what Tolkien said in one of his letters. If a mortal is granted to live in Tol Eressea, he does not become immortal, but he will be given time to heal, to feel joy again. And when he is ready, he will lie down at last and die in peace of his own free will.
In that respect, death can really be called "the Gift of Iluvatar", as the Elves do. Suicide would be the opposite of it, to leave the world out of desperation when all hope has gone.
I'm glad that Gwaihir delivered Arwen's boon successfully!
Author's reply
Much of this story was inspired by Tolkien's letters and comments on his own writing, and so I did rely specifically on that particular letter when describing the reasons why so many desired this boon for Frodo.
As for his and Sam's deaths, I described them in the next to the last chapter of my story "The Choice of Healing," again relying on the Master's own description of what it would be like for them.
I, too, rejoice that Frodo was granted Arwen's wish for him, and that he was offered such aid along the way.
Kitty
· 27 December 2005
· Chapter 53: 53: The Grace Requested
What a contrast between Wasnior and Rustovrid! Even if I’d not already knew it, I’d say Rustovrid is so much more honest. Aragorn will probably be glad to know Sohrabi is now the Farozi, if he not already knew it. And I wonder if he remembers Rustovrid as a little boy?
So this was the beginning of Frodo’s journey to Tol Eressea ... I love the idea of Arwen calling the Eagles to ask this! Aragorn was right, that was quite bold – but a wonderful idea!
Author's reply
It was wonderful to have the right to try to imagine how the gift was first requested, and then to share it with others.
Am so glad so many appreciate seeing Rustovrid here after his introduction in "The King's Commission" and his strong presence in "Lesser Ring." And the idea that Sohrabi is now Farozi must be heartening to Aragorn indeed.
harrowcat
· 27 December 2005
· Chapter 53: 53: The Grace Requested
This is wonderful Larner. I love the image of the eagle raising his wings over Arwen and Aragorn. Very Angelic and totally appropriate to the Season.
It has just begun to snow here in Warwickshire so i am looking forward to some great pictures of black dog against white background! Might try and e.mail you one. Mum says thanks for the thoughts!
Author's reply
So glad you appreciated that image, and it was indeed intended to be angelic in nature, a blessing from one of the messengers of Manwe to those in Middle Earth.
No snow here in Washington--just rain and wind last night, and calm tonight. Get to work every night the rest of the week, so it's being INTERESTING....
Tried to send you a private email, but for some reason my computer is converting your email address to just your nick, then sitting on it. It's most distressing.
Have fun with the photos. Need to get some new floppies to use in my new used Mavica, and see if I can get them sent off.
Joy to all as we count the twelve days of Christmas.
Queen Galadriel
· 27 December 2005
· Chapter 53: 53: The Grace Requested
I get to review two chapters! I love Pippin's remark about standing still, and Merry's reply-that is just like them! LOL! And it is so wonderful to see Frodo happy, and I'm glad he could get through the entire dance this time. Dear Sam always knows just when he's needed, and I'm glad of that, even while I ache for Frodo. I'm so sorry that his joy must end so soon. Just when he was beginning to know happiness, too. And I was hoping you'd show how Arwen's request was made. Can't wait for more! God bless,
Galadriel
Author's reply
Yes, Pippin's growing up, and Merry's amazed as well as pleased to see it, I think. But it's not always easy for either.
Frodo is able to be more lighthearted, but is also brought up short once again by the realization he has not returned to normal, and he's still lost a good deal of what he once was.
And I'm glad you appear to appreciate how Arwen chose to have her plea delivered. Thanks for the review! Hope your Christmas was a good one!
Linda Hoyland
· 26 December 2005
· Chapter 53: 53: The Grace Requested
I thought this was very imaginative,to have the eagle request that Frodo be allowed to sail,so that Arwen knew her offer to Frodo was acceptable.
Author's reply
Glad you approve, Linda. Hope your Christmas was a wonderful one!
French Pony
· 26 December 2005
· Chapter 53: 53: The Grace Requested
This was a lovely missing scene, to see Arwen asking her great boon of the Valar, and to see her clear-headed, compassionate reasoning behind it. She will truly be a great Queen of Gondor.
Author's reply
So glad you appreciate seeing that scene being brought to life. And, yes, she'll be a great Queen for both realms. And as someone noted last week the Great Eagles were begging to be included more in this story, particularly as they've been circling overhead at the proper times!