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A Spring of Joy by daw the minstrel	62 Review(s)
perelleth	Reviewed Chapter: 8 on 6/2/2005
Wow! You must be drained! If this has been painful to read through, it must have been tenfold worse to write! Now that everything is over, I must confess that I almost gave up reading this particular story in chapter three. ...he said and went on his way back to his own apartment, feeling the satisfaction that came from believing that he had done the right thing.” That sentence sounded like death toll to me. Believing.Ooops. Anyway, I chose to read on, so I’m not blaming you for this overly sad ending. Now, your OCs have taken over the scene, and you must have a whole fan fiction community mourning one of them! That’s something to be proud of, for it means that you’ve managed to bring them to life pretty well…Congrats there! The narrative device was fantastic, as usual, I like the way you try different approaches in different stories. This one had an almost movie quality, in the way you kept moving from one place to another, following the thread, and slowly giving away small details. I agree with you that Tolkien’s world is one of loss and sacrifice, but then, most deaths he shows under a light of hope, or just glides over, or simply happen to characters we are not all too familiar with, or we hear of them as in a long forgotten tale, as in the Silm... What ff does, and you have particularly mastered this trade, is approaching the characters and the situations, as if through a lens. Focusing on family relationships, as your series does, makes the reader feel closer to the characters, because he/she can relate to their feelings and emotions better. And then we come to Sinnarn, and you get him killed and the shadow returns, just once again. It is interesting to see changes in your approach. I find that this level of angst and detail is uncharacteristically in other stories of yours. We never get to read what happened to the queen,through a close, inmediate pov, when the shadow returned before and Siondel’s Adar was killed we see it through a very young Eilian’s eyes, and such. Now, the scene where you describe how Eilian finds the bodies is, as I’ve said, uncharacteristically raw and detailed in your writing (that doesn’t mean I don’t approve of it!) and painfully… I can’t find the word, suggestive? I mean, Tynd must have been hit first, on his back, and as he fell forward, maybe trying to push Sinnarn to the dubious safety of the trench, Sinnarn must have turned around to help him and three arrows hit him. Wow. It says so much, but, then, what is hinted at is doubly painful. Another subtle difference I found in Ithilden’s reaction. He was fretful and out of himself in Tangled Web, but here he’s so collected that he’s almost frightening. The difference between hope and certainty, again greatly conveyed. What I miss here is hope. This is hopeless despair, and no ray of hope can be seen, except the sheer determination of the king and his people (I love your Thranduil, he’s great!) Not that you could ever find another, for this was such a bleak moment for them, but... well, let’s come to the point, I read fan fiction for evasion, and I fight to find sense in senseless grief and unfair bereavement almost on a daily basis in my professional life, so being confronted with this kind of actual, almost hopeless despair here is kind of, man, there’s no escape! ;-) No, seriously, it is my fault, for I knew at chapter three. I cannot say this is one of my favourite stories of yours, I still prefer Tangled Web, but I do think it is a good one, and a fitting piece in how your story arc is evolving, so congratulations again. Only... may I ask for a fluffy elfling story with a happy Ithilden on it anytime soon? I'm sure you're needing that, too! :-) Author Reply: may I ask for a fluffy elfling story with a happy Ithilden on it anytime soon? I'm sure you're needing that, too! You better believe it! I do need something lighter, and that's what I'm planning. I know what you mean about wanting escape from fanfic, wanting to know that even if bad things happen, the ending will be happy. Most of my stories are like that. I just didn't think it would be realistic for this story to be that way. As you say, the hope lies in the determination of Thranduil and his people. As readers of Tolkien, we know this eventually turns out OK, but at this stage, things look pretty dark. You're very kind to say nice things even though this story probably left you unhappy. Sorry! I promise the next one will be easier to read.

jlmart	Reviewed Chapter: 8 on 6/2/2005
I read somewhere that Tolkien hoped to create a universe which other authors, artists etc would want to work in and add to. (Sort of blows objections to fanfic out of the water doesn't it!) You have created a remarkable world within that universe full of fully fleshed out characters that wrap themselves around your heart and make you smile, cheer and cry for and with them. I have read all the stories in chronological order and have enjoyed my visits to your world enormously. Your stories have been happy and sad, funny and poignant, fluffy and dramatic, but never heartbreaking. Lorellin was gone before we met the characters and Turgon's death was almost inevitable given his recklessness. I was most affected by Galelas' death but it aroused pity more than anything. In short, your stories were a safe place to go, where life was exciting but those I was most emotionally vested in were safe. I should have realized that you are far far too good an author to overlook reality. This is a world at war, and in war no one is safe. Tuilin's death brought tears to my eyes because of the effect her loss had on Legolas but Sinnarn's death was truly heartbreaking in that it affected everyone. Still, it was how the other characters reacted that brought tears to my eyes. Eilian's initial numbness and guilt followed by his despair at having to face his father and brother. Thranduil's sudden realization watching Emmelin followed by his visualization of a young Sinnarn frolicking beside them on the way back to the palace, Sinnarn and Tynd's bodies being claimed by their fathers, Ithilden and Alfirin drawing strength from one another and Legolas desperately holding on to the slimmest of hopes as long as he can. The funeral, however, was the killer as Thranduil, the remarkable leader that he is, rises above the last in a lifetime of losses to become the strength and rallying point that his people need in a time of crisis and growing darkness. We see the result as Legolas steadies and continues growing towards the elf who would soon join the Fellowship to try to destroy the destroyer forever. You have done a fabulous job - Bravo! (Now could we have something lighter? I am running out of Klennex!) Author Reply: I absolutely love hearing from new readers and finding out that they can stumble on my stories and be caught by them. I don't think I could have killed Turgon if I'd written about him for longer, but that was the third story I ever wrote. Like you, I felt pity for Galelas, whose family had not given him what he needed in life. But Sinnarn was someone I've written a fair amount about. He's still a minor character, but I knew more about things like his struggle to accept his role as the son of the king's heir. Still, as you say, it didn't seem realistic for Thranduil to have all these warriors in his family, to have the world be dangerous, and to have them all come through safely. Sigh. Thranduil is just wonderful. I love that stubborn, valiant king, who held his realm even though he didn't have a ring. If you admire him, you're on my A list! I think the next story will have to be something lighter. No more dead characters!

Rose Sared	Reviewed Chapter: 8 on 6/2/2005
Oh how sad, and how sensitive. You are a story telling genious, my dear. I am too full of sniffs to do your work justice but you have inspired me. Thank you Rose Author Reply: I hope I inspired you to write a story I can read! Thank you for your kind words, Rose Sared. I hate killing an OC but it seemed realistic here.

emjo	Reviewed Chapter: 8 on 6/1/2005
Oh Daw sorry I haven't reviewed this story my boyfriend was in an accident and life has been a little crazy, but I've managed to keep up with this story (actually one of the few things that brighten my day right now). I loved this story even though it made me even sadder. Legolas is definatly ready to go help save middle earth, and in my head Sinnarn will be with his family again eventually. Anyway great job. Can't wait to see what the next story will be! Author Reply: I hope your boyfriend is doing well, emjo. RL can be terrible sometimes. In my head, Sinnarn will be with his family again eventually too. The idea of reuniting in Valinor must be very comforting for Elves who have lived through so many centuries of loss.

The Karenator	Reviewed Chapter: 8 on 6/1/2005
I've had to take a little time to think about my review. Not because I have anything negative to say, but because I have so many things bumping around my head that I wasn't sure how to organize my thoughts. First off, despite your reservations about this story, I think it's one of your best. As each chapter progressed, the tension just wound tighter and tighter. By the time we got to the last chapter, the coil was wound so tightly that the tension was almost unbearable. Of course, Tolkien's world is fiction, but I think the plot of the story is so appealing to readers because it's so relevant to the world in his time and in ours now. He created characters who rose above the terror and trials of battling evil by choosing to do the right thing. We have characters who are loyal, brave, self-sacrificing and determined despite overwhelming odds that they will most likely perish. Your story captures the essence of these qualities in your characters. Mirkwood was unique in that it was the only known Elven realm of that time without the protection of a ring of power, and it's people were constantly under assault. In one of your earlier stories you said that Eilian thought that his father kept the shadow from their door simply by his strength of will. In this story, we see that not only was Thranduil's strength of will the barrier that kept his people safe, but the woodland people themselves were possessed of the same kind of determination as their king. We can easily see why Thranduil was considered the greatest of all Elven kings, but we also see that he was supported by people who helped him reach that height. When Legolas realized how much strength Ithilden drew from Alfirin, Ithilden and Alfirin seemed to parallel the relationship of Thranduil and his people. Both relationships are closely bound in mutual support. The loss of peace and the loss of life go hand in hand. My favorite line: There before Legolas stood the king of the Woodland Realm, one who would fight the Shadow for every inch of soil, every rock, and every tree, and if by some mischance, an enemy overcame him, he would grasp it by the neck to drag it down with him and spit in its face as he did so. This is a beautiful description of the unmovable determination of the king in the face of such a personal loss. Sinnarn's loss was felt by everyone, and each in their own way held up someone else. Everyone seemed to know that Sinnarn's and Tynd's deaths were symbolic for all the losses that the woodland people had known and would know again in the future. They were markers for the death of peace. Dol Guldur was occupied again, but the people stood firm with resolve. Emmelin and Elowen's leaving didn't seem to be an escape from evil, but a symbolic step toward healing the hurts done to the realm. Gosh, I know this sounds like a bad high school book report, but the whole story seemed to me to be about so much more than just a couple of scouting trips and the loss of a family member. I could be wrong...:>) However, I can't tell you enough how wonderful I thought this story was. You outdid yourself. Karen Author Reply: Thank you, Karen. Your praise means a lot because you give it with such consideration. I learn about my own stories from reading your reviews. I think this review really articulates what I admire in Tolkien's characters: they've made clear decision to do what's right and they do it no matter what the cost to themselves. In thinking about Ithilden and Alfirin, it seemed to me that we might assume he was the strong one and she leaned on him. And she probably did. But I think his strength comes partly from her, as Thranduil's strength comes from the woods and the Silvan people. What a determined lot they were! They may not have been particularly disciplined fighters under Gil-galad, but they never lacked for courage. The idea of Elowen and Emmelin going west together comforted me, I have to say. They would take care of one another. And poor Elowen needed to see Siondel again. I think he'll be waiting for her. In my head, this story has been about what people do in the face of great loss. The personal loss of Sinnarn is connected to the greater loss of the peace and is set against it. Thank you for being such thoughtful words, Karen.

Elena Tiriel	Reviewed Chapter: 8 on 6/1/2005
Eeeek. So many of the wonderful reviewers here at SOA make me feel so inadequate... I'm afraid that's a permanent state now that I've read Dot's lovely poem... - Barbara, the wholly inadequate reviewer (but loyal and appreciative reader) (um, except when you make her cry...) Author Reply: I'm just floored by that poem. I love the reviewers at SoA. They're articulate and bright and informed. And I thank them all from the bottom of my heart.

Dot	Reviewed Chapter: 8 on 6/1/2005
"His name is Sinnarn," he said, "for his life will be a new story to be woven with all the others in the song of Arda." Ithilden, One Year in Mirkwood When a future of peace seems so far away And Shadow grows closer every day What better way to seize a moment of joy Than to rejoice at the birth of a baby boy The grandson longed for by the king for years Was greeted with smiles and joyful tears His parents loved him from his first cry He would ever be the apple of his grandfather’s eye The child was dark-haired and fair of face Full of mischief, life and grace He thrived in a home of love and of light Sheltered from the dangers he would one day fight He learned to swim at his father’s side He learned to climb and he learned to ride He learned of duty and honour, of the sword and the bow All the warrior skills he needed to know His father gave him a harp and together they’d sing, Both grateful for the comfort it would bring It never failed to lift him out of despair When he was troubled by worry and care For sometimes he struggled as his father’s heir Duty seemed a burden too heavy to bear A good warrior and full of courage was he But he oftentimes thoughtless or careless could be Open and eager to meet Dwarves and Men His curiosity took over time and again Still slowly he proved he was someone to trust Who would protect his home as long as he must One day he was truly put to the test When with too much wine he lay down to rest And prisoners escaped while under his care, Found too late, though the Elves searched everywhere He had been tricked, though they did not yet know And so his punishment came as a very harsh blow He felt the disgrace, saw his family’s pain But knew that in hiding there was nothing to gain He remembered all he knew of courage and tried To learn this lesson with dignity and pride Quietly and bravely he rebuilt once more The good reputation he’d had before A great battle followed, of which tales are still told And the warriors welcomed him back to the fold Proudly he swore to do what his duty would ask He pulled out his sword and turned to the task He fought with his friends for his home and his king Knowing the dangers that battle would bring Around him friends fell and Death drew near Yet on he went and fought without fear Till he too was injured and almost died For something started by lust and by pride The battle was won, there were rumours of peace But deep down he felt a sense of unease He knew that the peace was unlikely to last Shadow would return as it had in the past He turned to what he treasured most in his life His home, his people, and now his new wife In love and in peace he found anew His joyful spirit and great happiness too Though he still believed a time would come when Shadow would stir in the south again And evil did come to the forest once more Yet something seemed different than it had before Someone was needed to go and to see What this new danger could possibly be So he knew with never the smallest of doubt To protect his home he had to find out The threat to them, if there was any way That this new evil could be kept at bay Off he went with courage in his heart Prepared once more to do his part But no matter how much strength he tried to show He had no hope against this foe Fate had decreed this was the end For Sinnarn, beloved son, husband and friend The hearts of his family filled with dread As his brave soul to Mandos fled To us his death seems so very wrong But he played his part in Arda’s song We remember his courage and his heart so true His gift of finding joy and of spreading it too Author Reply: Oh. My. God. I can't believe you did this, Dot. Holy cow. I'm just so honored and flabbergasted and moved. Thank you so much. I need better words to tell you how much I treasure this. Author Reply: I was rereading these reviews this morning, Dot, telling myself that I can write stuff that doesn't suck. And I came to this poem. I have tears in my eyes. You are amazing to do this.

sofia	Reviewed Chapter: 8 on 6/1/2005
just reading the chapter title made me very nervous. Facing Loss! A few paragraphs in I immediately thought Sinnarn died because of Ithilden and Emmelin's reaction... I can't believe you killed Sinnarn off. I never really cared deeply about Sinnarn like I did with Eilian and Ithilden, and Legolas, and their bodygaurds but still it was a shock. More grief. And of course you brought me to tears again. I liked Beliond's part in in Sinnarn's funeral. It was sweet. The funeral scene was written out very well. Another brilliant story, I might add. -sofia Author Reply: Thank you, Sofia. I can't believe I killed Sinnarn either! But I thought it was necessary to drive home the seriousness of the return of the Shadow. Beliond is a surprising guy sometimes. I don't think he'd like being called "sweet" though, so I won't tell him you said that. :-)

Jay of Lasgalen	Reviewed Chapter: 8 on 6/1/2005
Yippee! My hotel room has wireless internet access! Having said that - Daw, what a sad chapter. It came as no surprise that poor Sinnarn was dead, we'd all worked that out - but the pain of his wife, of Ithilden and Alfirin, and especially Thranduil (who has seen so much loss already) was very vivid. I felt for Eilian as well - he's so much a warrior he doesn't blame himself, but this is his nephew. The scene between Thranduil and Eilian was very poignant. I loved the final image of Thranduil, the Elven King. He's so Churchillian. 'We shall fight them in the trees and the clearings. We shall fight them in the meadows. We will never surrender!' Jay Author Reply: I'm in Texas, and my hotel room has internet access too! How did we ever get along without it? It occurred to me as I was reading the reviews of this chapter that readers waited in much the same condition that Sinnarn's family did. They knew he was probably dead, but they didn't want to believe it. I felt bad for Eilian too. He needed his father to tell him that he was not to blame. He knew that in his head, but facing Ithilden must still have been hard. LOL about Thranduil and Churchill. In my head, Thranduil is much better looking.

nessie	Reviewed Chapter: 8 on 6/1/2005
Wow. And you called this 'A Spring of Joy'? There's babies being stolen, fawns being ripped to pieces, beloved characters dying, Nazgul coming...Joy indeed! But this is terrible (Sinnarn being dead). I mean, we saw Sinnarn grow up! You really had me balling here. Really. I haven't cried so much in a fanfiction story since Turgon died, actually. And I was wondering where Amdir went. But I'm glad he spoke here. But ooh! Poor Ithilden and Alfirin! You should never outlive your children. Or your grandchildren, for that matter. I feel so bad for the royal family right now. And Elowen's leaving with Emmelin! I'll miss them, Elowen especially. She really was like a surrogate mother to Legolas. But anyways, besides the fact that this story's SAD, it's still great like all your others. Can't wait til' you come out with the next one! ~nessie~ Author Reply: I know. The title is ironic. At the end of The Hobbit, Tolkien says that the wood elves looked forward to a spring of joy after long winter. This story is set just 10 years later, and the spring has been much too short. I feel bad about Sinnarn too. As you say, we've seen him grow up and struggle and overcome some real failures. But what's good to remember is that elves don't die. Their fea is separated from their body, true. But eventually they get reincarnated in Valinor. Thank you for saying good things. I truly appreciate it.

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