Lindelea · 15 May 2007 · Chapter 1: A Brave New World
They scratch themselves? Really? Nicely done, even if it is not Beregond. You do it so well, you know, you really ought to tackle Beregond. There just aren't enough quality stories written about the man. (ok, there aren't even many, if any, poorly crafted stories written about the man.) Odd as it may sound, he is my favourite of the race of Men in Middle-earth. Don't know how such a "minor player" could so completely capture my heart, but he certainly did, with his bold, bright, curious spirit; his love for Faramir his Captain; his quick and easy friendship with a stranger in time of war; his sacrifice of self, with eyes open, to prevent murder most foul; and his making his stand in the front rank at the Black Gate.
Author's reply
They probably clear their throats, too. And other less appealing physical things. Beregond is an excellent character - and one whose actions were as brave as anybody's ... I still tend to think he got a bit of a raw deal, even though he was sent off in semi-glory. And his role raises all sorts of questions along the 'I was only carrying out orders' line - of when should you stand up and say no. And the consent of the ruled - and whether you can blame everything on those in charge if you allow what is clearly wrong. Max Frisch - Andorra ... Something along the lines of 'Ich war Soldat ... Ich habe nur mein Dienst getan.' (Incorrect German, I know. Never was too good at declensions.)