Edlyn
· 16 October 2007
· Chapter 13: Playing in the Tenth Dimension
Meldonya, how can I possibly type without mistakes when I am laughing so much? This was a gorgeous chapter. I love "little" Námo.
Thank goodness he learned that the best thing to do was to call for Atar (Finally!)
However, I think my favourite line was "Is there no hope for her?". It really says something about Námo that (even if he didn't understand why) he cares about Acairis.
In fact the entire sequence between him and Atar sets up the process (an awful word I know but I can't think of another at this moment) that he will use in regards to the Reborn in the future.
I love the bemusement of his siblings and Manwë's imitation of a newly born Vairë was a hoot. I can just "see" her bouncing around all excited. Of course, she (like any other adolescent) is utterly embarrassed by having her elders bringing up her behaviour as a toddler (like your Mom and Dad pulling out your baby album and showing it to your new love interest!).
I can tell you had a good time writing this chapter meldonya. It just shines through!
Hugs,
Edlyn
Author's reply
Yes, I had a very good time writing this chapter, especially after the previous ones. And Manwë's imitation of a newly created Vairë is probably one of my favorite scenes in this. I can just "see" her bouncing around, too, like a three-year old with an attention span measured in nanoseconds. I'm sure Atar, Manwë and Varda found her endlessly amusing. LOL Glad you found the chapter so funny. Thanks for reviewing.
Imhiriel
· 15 October 2007
· Chapter 999999: Character List
Thanks very much for the character list - I found it absolutely fascinating, the names and their meanings, and how the names of the Maiar often reflected the responsibilities of the Valar they served.
Regarding Olórin's uncertain "fealty", I find your answer to another review very plausible. His wisdom must in part be because he didn't limit his interests, and explored different avenues.
Oh, this leads me just now as I type to another thought: perhaps that is why he was so fond of Pippin and was (relatively *g*) patient with his curiosity and interminable questions.
Author's reply
No doubt... the tweenager probably reminded him of himself when he was... er... younger. *grin* Glad you like the list. Hope it helps keep everyone straight as the story continues.
Imhiriel
· 15 October 2007
· Chapter 13: Playing in the Tenth Dimension
Your Námo reminds me more and more of Glorfindel in "Elf, Interrupted", with his tendency to flee precipitously when he is unsettled. No wonder Námo could so much sympathise with him!
I'm afraid I still don't quite get all the mystery around the 10th dimension. Would you mind providing me with a short explanation (if it does not reveal too much of future chapters).
Oh, I did feel such sadness and pity when Eru revealed his pain and grief over Acairis' decision...
...And then laughed out loud at the others' remarks about Námo's rather child-like behaviour. Manwë's imitation of Vairë was too funny!
And so this is the first seed of what will become "standard procedure" in the Halls of Mandos, bringing the fëar temporarily back to an earlier stage in their development to help them heal.
I like these transition chapters very much, it seems I needed time, and the gentleness, they give, as much as Námo did after his capture.
P.S.: In the index, the title for this chapter is spelled wrongly.
Author's reply
Thanks, I noticed the typo and fixed it before I saw your review. *grin*
Sorry, but the mystery of the 10th dimension will have to remain a mystery for the time being. If I were to give you even the barest explanation it would ruin things. *grin*
Yes, Námo will take his experiences here and apply it to what happens to the fëar of the Elves who come to Mandos. This is a time of healing, but we all know that healing of this kind is a one-step-forward-two-steps-back process.
Agape4Gondor
· 15 October 2007
· Chapter 999999: Character List
I love character lists! Thanks ever so much!
Psst - any chance we can get one for Elf???
Author's reply
It's coming, it's coming. Sheesh! give me a break will you? *grin*
Agape4Gondor
· 15 October 2007
· Chapter 13: Playing in the Tenth Dimension
Very good chapter and, as probably all your readers feel, I'm very happy that Namo finally is ....
I loved Vaire's scream of frustration. I could feel it too. And Orome's wry grin. He's getting used to this Vala, isn't he?
I loved Irmo's protestations! Bravo - good brother to have around!
I can understand Manwe's 'secrecy' about the 10th Dimension - very wise indeed.
And Eru's kind admonishment to Namo - makes one shudder to think what might be behind (within?) the Black Holes... And the 'hope is what has saved you' line is great.
My heart broke for Namo in the results of the capture and torture... that he regresses, that his former life seems 'dim and unreal' is so very, very sad.
I love Namo's - 'Atar says I can't' - absolutely perfect for a regressed Vala! I'm glad the others decided to join Namo in his little game and perhaps regression can be good for all, especially at times like this.
Nice job - great chapter. Glad - very glad - Namo is free!
Author's reply
Hi Agape. I think in time Námo will appreciate the "regression" and the healing it offers and will use it in good stead with the elves who come to Mandos.
And we should never lose our child-like (as oppoased to childish) wonder and sense of play. Thanks for reviewing.
Alquawende
· 15 October 2007
· Chapter 999999: Character List
In the character list for the followers of Melkor you have Urushebeth. In his info you say that he is brother to Ilsinor.
Author's reply
Thanks. I didn't see that. I'll make the correction.
Hildigrim
· 15 October 2007
· Chapter 13: Playing in the Tenth Dimension
Namo's question about hope for Acairis put me in mind of the Swiss theologian Hans Kung, who wrote in his book "Eternal Life": "There is nothing to be known here, but everything to be hoped."
Author's reply
Well, as Eru tells Námo, Eä is founded on hope and hope is what saved him, so you never know. And Hans Küng had it right. *grin* Thanks for sharing your thoughts.
Nieriel Raina
· 15 October 2007
· Chapter 13: Playing in the Tenth Dimension
I read this at the Dr. Office, but now I can't remember what I wanted to say! And it is hard to review with a kid with strep who yells "MOM" every 5 minutes. Okay, I'll do my best.
Oh! I was surprised Namo didn't react more to finding himself incarnate. I had a feeling he would shy from clothign himself for a good long while... It was somewhat nice to see Námo playing, but can't see it lasting long. Reality and facing what happened will have to come because he needs to mature in order to face Melkor again, and he will have to face both he and Acairis if for nothing else than to get over his fears. I was expecting he woudl not like being touched, even by his family. Vaire's reaction still confuses me. She seems angry and frustrated more than concerned. Makes me not like her much right now. Namo on the event horizon scared me! I am glad he called to Atar! And Atar told him he would not like what he would become. Overall a very good chapter, lighthearted for the most part, but with an air of ominous still lingering in the bsckground notes. As always I am waiting on pins and needles for you to update! And this chapter I really needed today, so THANKS!
Loved this: Then they all heard Vairë’s mental scream of frustration. "Námo, stop pushing me into star cores!" *smiles*
I am looking forward to more!
NiRi
Author's reply
Well, as to Vairë's reaction to everything... think of when you were a teenager and you were mad at your current boyfriend because of something or another... Vairë still hasn't forgiven Námo for risking himself for her in the way that he did and she's hiding her genuine concern underneath her outward anger and frustration. Don't forget, she has also be damaged psychically through Acairis' betrayal and simply by having been a captive of Melkor. I think eventually she'll work it all out, though not immediately.
I hope your elfling gets better soon. Thanks for taking the time to review. And Námo pushing Vairë into star cores is my favorite part of the chapter, too. Just think of all those mud puddles into which little girls were pushed by little boys (and vice versa) *snork*
Tira
· 15 October 2007
· Chapter 13: Playing in the Tenth Dimension
at least, despite being forced to recall those memories, he can still have fun. And of course, the wonderful thing about this being a prequel kind of story is that we all know he becomes, well, himself eventually.
Such a nice chapter, and it ended on a happy note! Is there something significant about that dimension? Oh yes, I know...wait and see.
Author's reply
Yes, we do know what he becomes eventually, and that's a good thing, isn't it, in spite of what he must suffer through to get there. The significance of the tenth dimension may be revealed in time, but perhaps even the Valar are unsure of it's ultimate purpose at this time.
Larner
· 15 October 2007
· Chapter 13: Playing in the Tenth Dimension
Yes, the tension needs releasing and the fear put from him for the moment. And there is hope for Acairis, at least, even if not a great deal of it.
Joy there is, and peace of soul--for the minute, at least.
Author's reply
Yes, there is always Joy and peace of soul, for a while... but there is always hope...
Rhyselle
· 15 October 2007
· Chapter 13: Playing in the Tenth Dimension
For some reason I can't remember my password so this is an "offline" review.
Was so nice to see this posted. Even though I got to see it when I beta'd it for you, I still get the warm-fuzzy feelings from this chapter that I got on the first read through. I can just see "child-Namo" standing there sort of half glancing at Manwe and Irmo and Orome after Atar told him he had to stay and not flee from them.
Of course, his game of "Catch Me" is right on the edge of disobedience if you look at it one way, because he IS running from them, but this time it's to encourage them to play with him--and it will bring him closer to them in the end. *giggle* I do love how you incorporated my suggestion that he tickle Vaire. It makes me smile to think that I have a teeny tiny bit of my imagination in the Fiondil-verse.
The mental image of the younger Valar chattering away to Atar when they first came into being, playing and laughing and being totally enthralled with the Timeless Halls in which the were born is my favorite thing here. It not only makes it plain just how much older than they were that Manwe and Varda are, but also that all of Atar's creations have the blessing of an innocent childhood to start from. I find that comforting for some reason.
I do look forward to seeing how Vaire also comes to terms with her mixed up feelings about Namo and what happened to him. I'm glad she gets to play here, even if she is upset and frustrated by his behavior.
Well, lunch is over and back to work I go. :) I really enjoy having the chance to read your work during my breaks. They make the day go so much better!
Author's reply
Hi Rhyselle. And now you can read my reply to your review during lunch, too. LOL
I imagine that Manwë and Varda went through the "infant" stage as well, but someone had to be on hand to act as "older siblings" to the young'uns. I'm sure the two of them found it very entertaining to watch the others "grow up". *grin*
Yes, Námo is very good at pushing the envelope here. We'll have to see just how far he tries to push it though.
And Vairë does have her own healing to do. Acairis' betrayal has to have been a heavy blow to them all, but especially to Vairë. One wonders how Aulë felt to have TWO of his Maiar (Sauron and Saruman) betray him and Eru in the end. (oh dear... down bunny... down!) LOL
Nieriel Raina
· 15 October 2007
· Chapter 999999: Character List
Apparently we don't get alerts for author's notes. How sad!
OH cool! A character list! I keep a running one myself for several of my stories, but rarely share them. I'm so glad you did! Because, now, I am confusedated. (yes, twist the English language whenever an English teacher is around *grin*) Olorin...he has been introduced in EI as belonging to both Manwe and Namo, or am I assuming he belonged to Namo due to his work with the Reborn. And what about Irmo? Doesn't the Sil say he was one of Irmo's people? Yes, very confusedated.
Thanks for sharing this! Very interesting....
NiRi
Author's reply
In the "Silmarillion" it is said only that Olórin "dwelt in Lórien but his ways took him often to the house of Nienna, and of her he learned pity and patience". [Valaquenta]. In "Unfinished Tales", however, when the Valar are recommending who will go to Middle-earth as Istari, the Valar offer their own people as candidates. Manwë, not Irmo, asks for Olórin and requests that he be sent as one of the Istari. For that reason, I have him listed under Manwë and Varda. I think, however, he gravitated to other Valar, taking service with them for a time, and learning from them. Which is probably why the Valaquenta states that Olórin was the wisest of the Maiar. I have used this approach in my story "Elf Interrupted", where Olórin serves Námo, though not exclusively. Probably not strictly canon, but there's very little information on which one can hang one's hat. *grin* Does this unconfusedate you or just make it worse?
Alquawende
· 15 October 2007
· Chapter 999999: Character List
I have been reading this and decided to review at the end. It's interesting that you made Namo the main character. Fans don't usually write about him, but your version of him is endearing. This has clearly shown how well your knowledge of Tolkien is. I thought I knew a lot, now I have to rethink that after reading all the names and saying they came from Tolkien's earlier writings. I do have the first five in HOME but didn't really enjoy them so I quit with them. The only one I ever did enjoy in it was the tale of the Fall of Gondolin. You have also made Namo a strong personality but one who still has faults. In many ways I can compare the Valar, in your story, to the gods and goddesses of Greek Mythology. Don't take that as an insult. It's a compliment. What I mean by comparing them to the Greek gods is because your characters show such vivid emotions and are not perfect. Fabulous writing so far!
Is this still a WIP because why would you put a character's list in the middle of a story?
Are, Ilinsor and Ilsinor the same being? If not, you have an error.
Author's reply
Hi Alquawende. Thanks for your review. I appreciate your thoughts about Námo and the Valar. This is not the first story where either Námo or the other Valar make an appearance that I've written, although it's the first Valar-centric story I've written. And Námo is by far the most interesting of all the Valar for me and many of my stories featuring the Valar usually have Námo as the main or one of the main characters, such as in "Elf Interrupted" and some of my short stories.
If you look at the blurb for this story you will see that it's "in progress". I put in the character list because several readers requested it for this story and for my other two WIPs, "Elf Interrupted" and Stirrings of Shadow". The "Elf Interrupted" character list is still being put together since there are 129 chapters and counting and LOTS of characters to list. *grin* And if necessary, I will add to the list if any new characters other than those listed appear later in the story.
I looked at "Ilinsor" on the list and it's spelled correctly and I went through the only chapter "Rescue Run" where he so far appears and the name is also spelled "Ilinsor". If you can tell be where you saw "Ilsinor" I would appreciate it so I can make the correction. The name should be "Ilinsor" throughout.
I'm glad you are enjoying the story so far and hope you will continue to read and enjoy. The story is not over by a long shot. We still have the creation of Arda to get to, after all. Thanks again for reviewing.
eiluj
· 14 October 2007
· Chapter 999999: Character List
Ooh! Mysterious new people! And the meanings of names! Thank you.
Author's reply
You're welcome and perhaps as the story progresses you'll even meet some of these 'mysterious new people'. *grin*
Radbooks
· 12 October 2007
· Chapter 12: Finding Námo
Ah, a very nice and most satisfying chapter. I knew that Namo would recover... well, get well started on his recovery when he was with his atar, I'm sure he'll need some time to feel comfortable around the others. I just knew Namo had shut himself off from his atar because of course God won't ever leave us... he is everywhere. As I was reading this Namo's reactions to his atar reminded me strongly of Glorfindel's response to Namo and I can see where Namo gets his empathy and compassion. It's much easier to be empathetic if you've experienced loss... or similar situations yourself. Very nicely done.
Oh, the chapter title made me giggle. It was too much like the movie, Finding Nemo! :) By the way, I posted another chapter of my story about a week ago.
Author's reply
Thanks, Radbooks. I'm glad you found this such a satisfying chapter. You are the not the first person to compare Námo's attitude toward Atar here with Glorfindel's response to Námo. It's probably why Námo finds Glorfindel so amusing, as the ellon reminds him so much of himself when he was... er... younger. *grin*
Thanks for letting me know you've posted a new chapter. I saw it and read it and enjoyed it very much. I'm looking forward to seeing how that story ends probably as much as you're looking forward to seeing how this one (and my other stories) end. *grin*
Thanks again for reviewing.
Larner
· 11 October 2007
· Chapter 12: Finding Námo
Ah, royally pissed off, is she? Yeah, guess it works for me, too! Heh! And they at last thought to ask the butterflies? Took them long enough!
Poor Namo, having to work through the terror to find healing! But in the end he finds it and is restored not only to communion with Atar, but with his siblings as well.
Poor red dwarf, coming to its fulfillment a bit sooner to bring healing to Namo.
And the title! Hee!
Author's reply
Hi Larner! You know how I love tongue-in-cheek titles, if you've ever read some of my other stories. *grin* and who could resist this one? Anyway, Námo's experience with Atar and healing will help him deal with the fëar of the Firstborn (and even the Secondborn) when they come to Mandos. He'll have "been there, done that" himself and will be in a better position to help them and to understand where they are coming from.
And I'm sure the red dwarf thought it was "an acceptable sacrifice". Sorry, I couldn't resist. I've just finished reading your story for I think the third time and it's still as gripping as ever.
Thanks for reviewing.
YAY! I knew it! I was right! *grins* I just had a feeling somehow Namo would find the 10th dimension.
What a wonderful chapter, beginning with the TITLE! OMG! THAT was PERFECT! I loved Irmo's reaction to Namo being missing. Though Vaire's reaction was a bit bewildering. I mean, I don't doubt she's pissed (LOL!) but I kind of felt she'd be a little fearful too, no? Or maybe the sense of anger has overridden those emotions... I just LOVED Aule's word choices... I think the inclusion of modern wording is what makes this fic so relateable. (Is that a word?)
Oh, I just LOVED the parts with Atar, and actually had to step back from reviewing right away to just reflect on what Atar said about Namo was the one who had closed himself off. But Atar's reaction was so touching, I nearly cried. I also noted how Namo has learned from Atar himself about letting someone fight and scream in their embrace until it's all out. Many things he will have learned from this time of his existence. And the LULLABY! right? That is THE song, yes? Wonderful!
Namo cozying up to star cores was adorable, and thankfully his being allows him to sleep or hesitate for an age as he needs. Though, he seems to be a bit ADD at times...
-- *Námo,* Atar gently chided him, *stop looking about at the stars and pay attention.* --
*grin* it's a serious time, yet you break it up with just the right amount of humor and we need it after the last couple chapters, as I'm sure you did too! I'm glad to see Namo has started to heal, but it will surely take more time. his response to Atar at one point -- "No.... no....," Námo protested weakly, struggling to break out of Atar’s embrace. "Please, Atar, don't...don’t touch me... you don’t know... I’m not...." -- makes me wonder how he will cope with the others touching him now that he is found. I have family members who have been victimized and the way the react initially is very hard on the family because we want to hold and love and help, and they don't wish to be touched, feelign afraid and dirty. It takes much time reverse the response before the victim can react normally again, and some never do.
Oh it was so wonderful to see Namo cocking an attitude with Atar! LOL! I've always felt that Namo adores Glorfindel so much because he senses in him a kindred spirit. They are much alike in many ways, and this just proved it to me! LOL!
--"Hmmm. Dohnwanna." -- *snickers*
Great wonderful marvellous chapter, Fiondil!
NiRi
PS... I have to tell you this. You know I'm reading EI to my daughter. Well, we just finished the part where Glorfindel is taken from Valmar and left on Taniquetil. I closed the binder and amid protestations of "But MOM! We HAVE to find out what happens to him next!" To which I calmly explained the next, oh, twenty chapters we go back and find out about Finrod and Sador. To which she replied, "He is so EVIL!" LOL!
Author's reply
Hi NiRi. So I'm 'so EVIL', am I? Well, your daughter doesn't know the half of it! LOL!
Vairë's reaction I think is normal. She's suffering from residual anger at Námo for putting hinself in danger for her, guilt for being duped by Acairis and allowing herself to be captured so Námo would *have* to come rescue her, further guilt for leaving Námo behind, and additional anger at Námo for fleeing from them, plus fear for him and wondering where he is and what state he's in. All that adds up to a lot of angst and her only means of xpressing it at this point is through anger, in order to hide the underlying fear and guilt.
Much of what Námo undergoes with Atar here he will take with him as Lord of Mandos. And yes, that is THE lullaby. *grin* And he's not so much ADD as he is wanting to run and hide under the covers instead of listening to a "lecture" by Atar. *grin*
I'm sure Námo still has a ways to go in his healing and it will take much patience on the part of the others to see him through the rough spots. And at this point he's pretty much feeling like a child who's "heard it all before". as he deals interacts with Atar. *grin*
Agape4Gondor
· 9 October 2007
· Chapter 12: Finding Námo
Ah ha! 'Love's embrace' - I was hoping and hope was fulfilled. Thank goodness for Eru!
I loved the other Maiar's concern for Namo, but also for Irmo and each other. It was touching for these 'great' creations. And there amazement that Namo could possibly 'want' to hide from Atar. Inconceivable to them, but they had not been where Namo had been. I hope that, when they are *crosses fingers in hope* they are reunited, they will remember this and treat Namo with respect and compassion.
As first of the Maia, I found it appropriate and beautiful to have Manwe be the one who realizes that Atar helped Namo!
I love the uses of time - they are laugh-inducing - 'measurable in the half-life of decaying radioactive particles' - if I'm not mistaken, LOL, that is a very long time! And when Namo was recovering and 'several stars ... flamed in and out of existence' - I think that is even a longer time!!!
I love the line - All is well between thee and me. I guess that's where Namo learned such trust and was so able and willing to share it with those who came to the Halls of Mandos. I loved that Eru gave him so much time to heal.
And I LOL when I read of the reunion and Namo's 'discovery' - great!
Excellent chapter, as always, Fiondil!
Author's reply
Hi Agape! Thanks for your review. I'm glad you found this chapter a delight.
Time, of course, is such a relative word (okay, all puns intended here LOL), especially when dealing with immortal beings like the Valar and Maiar.
Nämo is experiencing what his own charges will someday experience. It will be a case of "been there, done that", so his innate sense of compassion for what those who come to Mandos must undergo is being informed by his own "Judgment"-experiences and the unconditional love that Atar has for him.
The others, unfortunately, will probably not "get it" immmediately and may make mistakes in their treatment of him, wanting him to be "like before" when that is totally impossible. But they will learn....
Agape4Gondor
· 9 October 2007
· Chapter 11: For Beauty Is Nothing But the Beginning of Terror
Ok - my notes are full of 'ewww's' - I can't stand what Melkor was doing to Namo and the response from a thoroughly beaten Namo, in hroa and fea! Sent shivers down my spine during most of the chapter.... Melkor's touch was hideous. Ew!!!
The mention of the Children and what they would be feeling and thinking was a nice 'diversion' - State of terror and awe. Wow.
Atar had abandoned him. I like that you continue to bring this aspect of his torture out. Was it Namo who was lost or was this part of Melkor's torture?
I am HOPING the voice is who I think it is and not the bright one.... *shudders for about the umpteenth time!*
Author's reply
A lot of people's reviews of this chapter are full of "ewwww's" so don't feel bad. *grin* It was not an easy chapter to write and I purposely glossed over the details of the torture. Way too "ewwww" even for me.
Agape4Gondor
· 9 October 2007
· Chapter 10: Pá Morilattar
Sorry, Fiondil, for a double posting for the same chapter, but I was off traveling and didn't have time to do a 'proper' review. I've added a few things.
I love the nose thing - I love all his reactions to his hroa - though the chapter is difficult - these little tidbits of 'discovery' were delightful. His wondering about the word 'death,' his sadness over the vision and the fear of those who 'came' to him, the addiction of the hroa for those high-born,
The blank emptiness, the cry 'where are you,' the intrigue of Melkor... too powerful and potent for words.
I warned him - out loud - 'be careful, Namo,' as Acairis grilled him about the black holes - what is the purpose? What is she after? Nothing so simple as curiousity for this witch! Finally, his hroa, at least, seemed to warn him, 'a frisson of dread!'
And her last line - yes, there are all kinds of black holes and Namo seemed close, so very close to falling into the worst of all.
Author's reply
No problem. I welcome the additional observations/comments. Námo is experiencing the gamut of emotions from the absurd to the terrifying here and isn't in a position to process any of it properly, hence his ambiguous reactions to Acairis and her seeming curiosity about black holes.
Tira
· 9 October 2007
· Chapter 12: Finding Námo
sweet chapter, nice descriptions of the stars and all too. loving it so far! now, to settle in and await the next.
Author's reply
Thanks Tira. I'm glad you enjoyed this chaspter and looking forward to reading more.
Lizzy
· 9 October 2007
· Chapter 12: Finding Námo
totally pissed off. hahaha... oh dear. that made me laugh.
hmmm. dohnwanna.
hilarious. ;)
Author's reply
Glad you liked the chapter, Lizzy. Thanks for letting me know.
Imhiriel
· 9 October 2007
· Chapter 12: Finding Námo
I loved your use of "gravid" in the very first sentence - it fit perfectly, and expressed so much (ah, well, and I saw it for the first time only recently in English - I knew the Latin term -, that's why it sprang to my attention).
He was unaware that he was whimpering as he fled into the heart of a nearby red giant and clung to its core. The gentle pulsing of the nuclear reaction soothed him and then he felt something stroke him reassuringly. With a sigh he curled himself around the core and fell back to sleep. The star, which was nearly depleted of its energy, heated itself up a bit more to give the Ayanuz additional comfort, joyful that its final outpouring of energy was for this lost one’s benefit.
Oh, that's lovely. Such a beautiful, moving picture. I think you spoke of a "comfort blanket" in an earlier chapter, and I think I finally know what you mean (if so, I had "comfort cushions" *g*). The love of this fading star and the will to give comfort as long as it is able is conveyed very clearly.
Aha, so Aulë is not only a world-smith, but also a word-smith *Lol*!
The concept of time is fascinating: They have all the time in the world, so to speak, it feels like there is such an "abundance of time" that it really doesn't matter if Námo needs the time it takes for for several stars to be born and die again before he feels secure enough to open himself.
Child, Melkor did nothing... it was you who closed yourself off to me. I was always there waiting for you.
Oh, so my guess was right. Yes, as we see, Námo felt guilt and shame, as so many victims of abuse do, as if it was somehow his fault that he was in Melkor's captivity. He didn't feel worthy of being helped. Maybe there is even an unconscious part of him that closed himself off so he could say that nobody helped him, to be able to shift the blame to those others?
Butterflies as the Song in velvet-winged form - what a lovely picture!
And I was just ready to paste my review in the review box, when I took another look at your chapter title and burst out laughing! Say, shouldn't there have been some fish, instead of those butterflies ;-)...?
P.S.: And thank you again for slightly altering the passage about Acairis' appearance; I appreciate it that you considered my concerns.
Author's reply
Well, I'm probably one of the few people anywhere who never saw the film "Finding Nemo", but the title was too good to pass up. LOL
"Time" of course is a product of mortality. For immortals, time has no actual meaning. When you are immortal, a billion years has no more intrinsic meaning for you than 1 year, it's all one and the same.
The image of the fading sun giving of itself joyfully one last time and the others images of the stars singing of Self-sacrifice and giving unstinting of themselves in order for Life to exist is a nod towards the philosophical underpinnings of the New Cosmology. See, for instance, Brian Swimme's "The Hidden Heart of the Cosmos" and "The Universe Story", co-written with Thomas Berry, an eco-theologian.
As for Acairis... no problem. I realized in our discussion that I had failed to show her fully as I envisioned her to be. I hope that the change in wording will eliminate any confusion or concerns of other readers.
Edlyn
· 9 October 2007
· Chapter 12: Finding Námo
Having just finished reading this chapter, I'm sitting here smiling, meldonya. Not only is Námo safe and back with his fellow Máhanumaz but he's found that tenth dimension that you've teased us with the mention of for the past several chapters. But best of all he's learned a very important lesson; one that will serve him in good stead when it comes to handling the healing of the Children who will come to his Halls.
Yes, our Atar is always present and there for us. We are the ones who close our eyes and ears and prevent ourselves from finding him for whatever reason. It was wonderful seeing how Eru showed Námo that his love is completely unconditional, no matter what we do. Yes, we should repent our errors but the fact that we aren't perfect and make mistakes isn't going to change how Atar feels about us.
I hope that writing this chapter made you feel better after having to deal with the difficult stuff in the past couple of chapters.
May you live blessed,
Edlyn
(See, I can write a review that is shorter than the chapter!)
Author's reply
But I LOVE your long reviews, the longer the better. *LOL*
Anyway, I'm glad you enjoyed this chapter and the images it prseents of Atar's unconditional love for his Children in whatever the circumstances they find themselves. I certainly enjoyed writing it, for it was indeed a sort of catharsis for me after the last few chapters.
Larner
· 4 October 2007
· Chapter 11: For Beauty Is Nothing But the Beginning of Terror
Ah, and what was it that Melkor forced him to do? At least Atar has heard him and has offered him peace for the moment, and he accepts it, readying himself for the next bout with his older brother.
The use of the butterflies as a distraction and as a means for escape by Namo himself was wonderful.
And Acairas loathes her chosen master, does she? Interesting....
Author's reply
Trust me, you really don't want to know the details, but feel free to use your imagination. Atar, of course, has always heard him, even when Námo wasn't aware of that fact in the midst of his torment.
I had the feeling that the butterflies would have a part to play in Námo's rescue... I didn't expect him to *actually* take their shape and escape with them. *grin* That was a surprise even to me.
I think Evil loathes Evil... it's what it does best, don't you think?