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The Choice of Healing  by Larner 4 Review(s)
InklingReviewed Chapter: 9 on 5/29/2005
One gets the sense that the children are “getting it” better than the adults. And that seems, perhaps, a hopeful sign for the future. But then, children are more open to strange and wonderful tales than their elders. As Tolkien often remarked, it’s a shame that fairy tales are relegated to the nursery.

The undercurrent of this story seems to be one of understanding, or lack thereof. Interesting to hear the account of the quest told over and over, in bits and pieces, to various people, who all react to it so very differently…



Author Reply: Yes, that is one of the major themes, the theme of understanding. Some accept what they are told; others, like Paladin and Eglantine, don't even want to hear the truth, fearing it is too hard to accept and that it shows they somehow failed Pippin, Merry, and Frodo--don't think they are thinking too hard about Sam, unfortunately.

And the children will accept it better than their parents at this point, for they don't have preconceptions to fight as well.

Am glad to see you following the story steadily.

harrowcatReviewed Chapter: 9 on 4/5/2005
Lovely Larner. I have read a number of attempts to writ a synopsis of LOTR. Yours is, by far the best with just enough family history to satisfy young hobbits. I could hear the Red Book being written in rehearsal. The mixture of pain and pride was heartbreaking. And Frodo's love and pride in Aragorn, well *sigh*!!

Author Reply: Oh, thank you, Harrowcat! You've made my day!

DreamflowerReviewed Chapter: 9 on 4/4/2005
I love the way you show that Frodo is still able to feel joy and love and pride, even though it must be vicariously. His love and pride for his King, especially, is so beautiful and touching. That is how I have always seen post-Quest Frodo--unable to enjoy life for himself, but still able to enjoy the good that happens to those he loves. You show that so well.

I wonder if Narcissa guesses at what he has left out?

Author Reply: Oh, we see him obviously very much the same way. Yes, his pride is always for others now.

I think Narcissa is guessing but suppressing it.

shireboundReviewed Chapter: 9 on 4/4/2005
What a lovely, gentle chapter. Frodo deep humility -- and love for his king and everything they fought to save -- just shines through. Beautiful.

Author Reply: Thank you, Shirebound. Yes, it is his love for the one he has come to know as friend and King that will shine now.

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