Oh, that's perfect, delightful! Haha poor Pulgo and Sancho, I knew that was going to happen. Clever idea, though, and they were heroes after all, saving the day from the marauding Lobelia.
My, Odo is too good at tyrannizing! I'm glad Pulgo got what he wanted in the end, thanks to Bilbo.
I love this; it's one of those stories that really make the Shire feel like home. :)
Author's reply
Am so glad to have given so many a chuckle with this one. It was fun to imagine Sancho's brother and the family dynamics in the Proudfoot home. And it's ALWAYS fun to thwart Lobelia! Heh!
Yes, we do want to visit the Shire, and possibly live there, don't we? I'd so love to have been able to visit Bag End when Bilbo, Frodo, and Sam were about the place!
Queen Galadriel
· 17 December 2008
· Chapter 60: The Departure Observed
Oh...I never thought how that would appear to those not much involved in it, and I've never seen it written about through the eyes of others. But yes, of course it would be sad to this ordinary family; the beautiful and powerful Elves are passing away, and the small hero who saved the world with them.
Author's reply
The last one and this one were written for different LOTR GenFic Community challenges. In this I was to look at Arda through the point of view of someone I'd not written before, so next thing I knew I'd found three who lived in the Dunedain community adjacent to the Grey Havens.
They are seeing indeed the end of the Third Age, and will be among the last to know the Sailing of the Elves--and the Ringbearers.
Thanks so for the comments.
Queen Galadriel
· 17 December 2008
· Chapter 61: In the Company of Heroes
Oh wow! Maybe I'm displaying my lack of time spent on the books again here, but I didn't realize there was something beyond death for the Elves and the chosen few--or is this that separate place where the Elves go when they die or, if I remember rightly, choose to leave the world altogether?
I love how you bring these legendary characters to life here.
Author's reply
I see this as part of the Halls of Mandos, where those who have not been reborn may honor the memories left behind by the mortals who have paused however briefly on their way beyond the Bounds of Arda. And I was so inspired by that quotation by Elrond from the end of the Council of Elrond scene--decided I wanted to see it actually happen!
Thank you so!
Queen Galadriel
· 17 December 2008
· Chapter 62: Meditations while Watching Fish
I'm so glad it pleased you so!
Thank you again for all the comments.
Queen Galadriel
· 17 December 2008
· Chapter 63: Rebellion
LOL Aww, poor Frodo! Oh do I know the feeling!
Author's reply
I do, too, my Lady! This was just a quick one run off to meet a challenge, and had to begin and end with the same letter of the alphabet and deal with literacy somehow--and it was an interesting one to work up.
Queen Galadriel
· 17 December 2008
· Chapter 67: Echoes
Oops, didn't realize I'd missed this...I think I actually read it when you e-mailed it, but perhaps I didn't reply; I was in one of those dark moods at the time and didn't feel much of anything of any kind.
This gave me chills--peaceful and reminiscent with just the lightest touch of that quality that makes one shiver at ghost tales. And maybe, too, it brings back echoes of the parts of my own life so closely tied with this immortal story and characters. Masterfully done; amazing use of effect and a lovely weaving in of instances from your other stories.
Author's reply
Oh, yes--I did email this one to you, didn't I? I'd forgotten.
Am so glad this moves you, and am sorry you weren't in a good place in your life when you first read it.
And it was fun weaving in both references to my own stories and the Master's as well.
Thanks so, my Lady. Good to see you have the freedom to come play at least a bit.
Queen Galadriel
· 17 December 2008
· Chapter 64: The Gaffer's Farewell
It's been too long--I've forgotten how I used to *try* to hide it when I knew nothing I could say was enough to describe the touch of the power in stories like this one when it reaches through ears and heart and into the very soul, transcending everything in the moment, so that I don't hear the synthesized voice reading it anymore and become less conscious of this silent room and I'm there, in the room with the people brought to life again--hearing Elanor sing the sweet song and feeling the doll against my own cheek, listening to Sam and holding the limp hand...crying at the last, and laughing through my tears at the very end. Who would ever have thought that a simple misunderstanding due to inclarity of speech could last so long!
I really, really have to stop now--I meant to do some writing of my own and I'm so afraid to look at the time. I love coming back to read your stuff, especially when I so seriously need a perspective and/or outlook/attitude adjustment as I did after these past couple of days or so. Thank you so much.
Author's reply
It must be nearly five thirty in the morning where you are--it's two twenty two right now here on the west coast.
This review has moved me so. But I do love to show the humor as well as the tears, and the gentleness of saying goodbye, even when one accepts it's time. That you felt you were there is so wonderful! Thank you so very much! I am so honored!
Queen Galadriel
· 17 December 2008
· Chapter 65: Promises Made
Oh, this is soooo sweet! Pippin is a wise child, even if he is rather too obvious about the spying business, poor little kid; and Bilbo is...just Bilbo. Such a touching moment between the two of them, and I love that Gandalf was in the background, unnoticed but seeing and hearing everything.
Author's reply
I wrote this for the Birthday, obviously. Am so glad you liked it. And Gandalf--the eternal Witness of the greatnesses and weaknesses of those who dwell in this world! Thanks so!
Queen Galadriel
· 17 December 2008
· Chapter 66: A Day to Celebrate
Oh! Poor Frodo!
In the far north, however, the one they praised more greatly this day even than their new King did not hear the echoes of the songs sung in
his honor in Minas Tirith and Dol Amroth, from the seaports on the western shores of Langstrand to the new settlements already being founded ’neath the
shadows of the Ephel Dúath. His health did not reflect the wishes offered for it by Rangers from beyond Deadman’s Dike to those who kept their watch in
the guarded lands north of the River Poros. No scent of blooms from White Trees or mellyrn lifted his heart--this day he seemed not even to scent the
early daffodils and hyacinths blooming in bright blankets all about the farmhouse where he sat, rubbing at the deep ache in his shoulder. The goblet of
wine brought to him by his friend’s beloved tasted as sour as vinegar upon his tongue. He knew no vision of the brightness gathered about the Man he loved
as a brother and that one’s star-blessed wife that day. He felt no warmth about him, even though his hostess offered the softest, warmest shawl from her
blanket chest to him to wrap about his shoulders.
That's heartbreaking.
Author's reply
Yes, heartbreaking, but what I suspect was the way of it. He gave up so much that others might hold the world's joy.
This was written for the first anniversary of the LOTR GenFic Community, and it was an honor to write.
Queen Galadriel
· 17 December 2008
· Chapter 68: To Honor the Princes
Yes, too many die, and even more give up so much--health and strength, limbs...sight or hearing, sanity...and too often unthanked, even with as many that try. But this is wonderful, and telling, short as it is.
Author's reply
I agree, my Lady.
I see you managed to miss Echoes, which is chapter 67. I hope when you have time you'll look at that one, even if one doesn't see Frodo directly in it.
Queen Galadriel
· 17 December 2008
· Chapter 69: The Shire's Soul
That...is...absolutely...gorgious.
To read about that special, blessed joy of music and singing and dancing (well, okay, so I've never gotten the dancing bit except vicariously, having two left feet) makes me feel it, almost, a welcome thing this time of year.
Author's reply
Oh, I'm so glad you like this one, which was written for the WeeHobbits community. I had to work in the book title Soul Music into it, one of my very favorite Terry Pratchett Diskworld stories. It was a great one to write, and allowed me once again to indulge in the image of Frodo dancing!
Queen Galadriel
· 17 December 2008
· Chapter 70: Loss of the Light
Oh my! Seventy stories here now! I'll have to read backwards, I guess.
I don't know much about Maglor, but one doesn't have to, to have the same emotional response. This is incredibly sad and touching, sweeping like the waves to surround one in the vastness of time along with the immortal main character, and it all comes to life in sound and sight and touch. Brilliantly done, and so beautiful.
Author's reply
Well, you'll see more of him in the stories of a good number of folk, when and if you have the chance and energy to read more fanfiction again. Am so glad you loved this one. The person who requested it asked for a story involving Maglor, and this helps set up the final chapters of Stirring Rings--supposing I ever get to the point of actually posting those final chapters! Heh!
Linda Hoyland
· 15 December 2008
· Chapter 70: Loss of the Light
I don't know the Simarillion very well,only having read it once, but I found this touchin and beautiful
Author's reply
I've read it through once and have grazed within it from time to time. But this I felt would be very possible.
Kitty
· 10 December 2008
· Chapter 70: Loss of the Light
That ficlet got me all teary-eyed, Larner. How touching that Maglor played this farewell song to Frodo and Elrond! I *so* wished Maglor would at least get a last farewell hug from Elrond *sniff* Though I always despised Fëanor and his sons, Maglor was always the one I saw a bit different. He paid the heaviest price, I think - while his brothers died, he had to live on for so many millennia, bearing a heavy burden of guilt and shame. Somehow I hope for a happy end for him.
Author's reply
I am so honored this one again managed to move so many. It's not hard to feel compassion for Maglor of all of Feanor's sons.
As for a happy ending for him--if I EVER get "Stirring Rings" completed I believe you will be happy with it!
Sunny
· 9 December 2008
· Chapter 70: Loss of the Light
I have always had a soft spot for Maglor. He was certainly no angel, but I have always felt that he was royally scr**ed by his father. And the Oath being a part of that.
When I read the desctiptions of Fëanor’s speechmaking in Tirion after his father’s death, when Fëanor was swaying the Noldor to follow him to Middle Earth, I somehow tend to associate this with footage from the political rallys of Nazi Germany, or possibly the nastier variety of charismatic cult leaders – the Jim Jones of Jonestown variety comes to mind. The sort that has left sanity far behind. And Tolkien made it clear that Fëanor had charisma to burn!
Fëanor would not have been entirely sane at that time. The trauma of the death of the Trees, and that of his father (He’s an elf! He’s not _supposed_ to die!!), would certainly have seen to that. And perhaps he was not very tightly wrapped even before that. Some say that genius and madness are very close. And Fëanor would certainly illustrate that. Still, there were choices involved, and I would say that madness aside, he would have been sane enough to be accountable for those. It was a great pity his forceful personality dragged his sons into ruination along with him. (Well, I suppose _some_ needed less “persuation” than others)
*sniffles a bit, and hopes for a bit of, well, _hope_, at least, on Maglor’s behalf*
Author's reply
Oh, but I agree with you, Sunny. One who certainly deserved not to be led into such hatred and error, and who has much to overcome! Feanor was maddened by loss, and so led many to doom and loss in their turn. And this one son remained a witness for so very long.
Although one day I shall post my chapters on Maglor in "Stirring Rings," although that time is yet to come! Heh!
Antane
· 9 December 2008
· Chapter 70: Loss of the Light
What lovely gifts given to Frodo - Gandalf's ring strengthening him, the sound of the Elven music even causing a smile - and a gift he gave right back - the shining of the phial. Another retelling of the holiness of this night. Hantanyel!
Namarie, God bless, Antane :)
Author's reply
Indeed, there were gifts to be found even there. And Maglor will one day fully appreciate the greatness of Frodo's compassion.
Independence1776
· 8 December 2008
· Chapter 70: Loss of the Light
*weeps for Maglor*
I am very glad Elrond heard his song.
~ Indy
Author's reply
I, too, felt Elrond should hear this song, and am honored you appreciated this and that it moved you. Thank you.
Siiw
· 8 December 2008
· Chapter 70: Loss of the Light
You wrote tears into my eyes with this.
Author's reply
I am honored, Siiw. Thank you.
inzilbeth
· 8 December 2008
· Chapter 70: Loss of the Light
Oh this is just marvellous! I do wish we knew what became of Maglor, but how fitting that he should be there to witness Elrond sail.
This was so beautifully written and moving.
Author's reply
I agree--this would be such a fitting thing, for Maglor to watch the grey ship sail from the same site from which Aragorn a few days later sees the ship find the Straight Path.
Thank you so. And this will be working into the end of Stirring Rings, once I finally get that far with it.
eiluj
· 8 December 2008
· Chapter 70: Loss of the Light
Just lovely on so many levels.
Author's reply
I am honored, eiluj. Thank you so much!
shirebound
· 8 December 2008
· Chapter 70: Loss of the Light
Oh my goodness, I'm all teary now. That foul oath indeed! This is a beautifully-crafted inner journey.
Author's reply
Thank you so, Shirebound! Yes, that foul oath!
Antane
· 21 November 2008
· Chapter 69: The Shire's Soul
Sorry to be reviewing so late - read this a few days ago and just getting around to reviewing - ah, he's dancing again and no wonder Pearl doesn't want to babysit anymore when she could be dancing with him! And how nice to see "Fatty" dancing too and all of them so innocently enjoying the time.
Namarie, God bless, Antane :)
Author's reply
The beat can take us at times, I've found. I wanted so to become a dancer, but never had the gift for it--not particularly flexible; not quite a foot full of great toes, but not particularly graceful, either. To think of Frodo as a dancer has always pleased me, ever since that one scene of him dancing at the Party in the movie.
And at this time in his life Frodo is happy, and with reason.
Thank you so, Antane, especially at this time when things have felt uncertain, I'm certain, for you and your family.
Kitty
· 19 November 2008
· Chapter 69: The Shire's Soul
*snicker* I'd love to visit the Shire, but I have to admit, I'd not want to do that just when Folco is practising on his viol! ;-)
Great description of the young hobbits first playing and then some dancing as well! That was so beautiful, Larner! Particularly seeing Frodo shine so much!
Author's reply
Reason to avoid Overhill during poor Folco's practice hour, right? Heh!
And you already know how much I love the thought of Frodo Baggins dancing! Thank you so!
Andrea
· 17 November 2008
· Chapter 69: The Shire's Soul
“It’s as if the music were the soul of the Shire itself--singing!”
Beautifully written, Larner!
Is that jealousy somewhere hidden behind Pearl's angriness?
Pippin watched, his eyes wide, shaking his rattle in time to the beat
Cute :) Even wee Pippin contributes to the music!
Author's reply
Yes, there's a good deal of jealousy behind Pearl's anger, as Narcissa simply put herself first. To have one she sees as a rival do something she's not done yet must have been galling, don't you think?
And I had to have little Pippin contributing as he could. He's not quite two now, so would still be in rattle mode, I'd think.
So glad you enjoyed this one. Thank you so much!
Linda Hoyland
· 17 November 2008
· Chapter 69: The Shire's Soul
I can just picture this.Hobbits just love music and dancing.
Author's reply
I'm so glad you feel you can, Linda. I just wish I had turned out to be the dancer I'd wanted to be as a child. I guess that's why I love having my David and Frodo dance in my own stories!