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| The River by Indigo Bunting | 14 Review(s) |
|---|---|
| daw the minstrel | Reviewed Chapter: 6 on 10/31/2005 |
| I really like the way Sam comforts himself by thinking of the familiar good things of the Shire in such concrete terms. That's lovely. I also like his bravery in offering to swim the river. He and Legolas look like they're in trouble though. Author Reply: Thanks, daw! Yes – I meant it as a real indication of Sam’s anxiety that he was willing to jump in the river again. It’s very brave of him to offer to face what he fears like that, but he probably wouldn’t even see it as bravery. He would see it as doing what was necessary. That’s one of the things that I like so much about Sam – that he’s so plainspoken and humble. That humility mixed in with his courageousness – a quality that he does not recognize in himself – makes him an exceptional character. | |
| French Pony | Reviewed Chapter: 6 on 10/31/2005 |
| Danger, Will Robinson! I really enjoy seeing Sam and Legolas together and from Sam's perspective, especially given Sam's fascination with Elves. I love how Sam tries to be brave in order to keep up with Legolas and prove himself worthy of such a companion. And I think that having to take care of Sam is probably helping Legolas keep himself focused and minorly less panicky or reckless than he might otherwise have been. Again, it's nice to see that Legolas is working with some real limitations here -- that wound on his leg still troubles him and is a realistic impairment to their progress. And even though Sam doesn't see it through his hero-worship, you can see that Legolas is more afraid than he's willing to let show. The final scene in the crevice works very well. I like how Sam thinks of pleasant things in an effort to calm himself, and how that tactic fails miserably. Author Reply: Hee! I say that all the time: “Danger, Will Robinson!”, that is. And if I may say so, you’re as sharp as a tack. You’re very right about Sam feeling the need to show that he can keep up with Legolas, if only because he thinks so much of the Elves. He’s not used to being “taken care of”; he’s usually the one giving the care. What’s more, he’s not wrong about not needing to be coddled. He wants Legolas’ friendship and respect. He’s got both even though he doesn’t quite know it yet. Legolas’ protectiveness has a tendency to muddy the waters a bit. You’re also right about Legolas being more afraid than he lets on. I’m glad you liked the ending. That was a passage that came very smoothly; the original wording required very little editing. I like it when that happens, because that usually means that that particular section is good and strong. | |
| TithenFeredir | Reviewed Chapter: 6 on 10/31/2005 |
| "Sam’s heart was a kettledrum. Running my fingers through freshly-turned earth! Oh, save me, Mr. Frodo!" WOW. This chapter was beautifully described. I could feel their fatigue and discomfort as well as Sam's excitement at being so close to an elf. But you really did an excellent job of ratcheting up the tension to a near unbearable level. I finished it thinking, "This has to be a fake out! They can't be taken!" You are evil, Indigo Bunting! Can't wait for the next! ~TF Author Reply: Thank you, Tithen! Your review was really exciting for me to read. The phrase “ratcheting up the tension” fairly makes me want to dance; I’m so glad you liked it. And the line that you quoted is a real favorite of mine. But alas, ’tis no fake-out! | |
| Amy | Reviewed Chapter: 6 on 10/31/2005 |
| Oh, well done, v. suspenseful! I could feel Sam's fear, and I loved what he thought about to try to take his mind off his fear. Author Reply: Thanks, Amy, and it’s nice to see you again! I’m glad you liked the ending of the chapter, and Sam’s thoughts. A lot of people commented on that part of the chapter, which is heartening for me, because that means that the language was effective. | |