FantasyFan
· 11 September 2006
· Chapter 7: Competition
This is a fascinating story. I wonder if there ever was any hope for Saruman. He is indifferent to cruelty, he is indifferent to theft, he is indifferent to political machinations, he is indifferent to suffering and death (being immortal, maybe this last could be forgiven, but for the layer of contempt that is under the indifference). He is fascinated by the cunning and manpulativeness of Sauron. I think he'll find that scroll he stole valuable when he thinks of manipulating Theoden, many years later. Frodo pities him, and says that he was great once, and hopes that he might find his own redemption, but I don't know that he ever was great. Cunning, brilliant even, but entirely amoral in his actions, even as he proclaims his intent to be pure. What a contrast between him and Gandalf, who is entirely without ambition, and thus is open to wonder and humor and counsel. I wonder that Gandalf ever trusted him?
Author's reply
There might have been hope for Saruman; but he himself decided that to defeat Sauron he need to appropriate Sauron's Ring. He's making himself indifferent to cruelty, and already is seeing knowledge of Sauron and the making of the Rings as his own personal responsibility and right, and so allows himself to take what wasn't his to begin with.
Amorality is so often a feature of those who are seen as great and who rise to high office--a sad truth in our world.
As for Gandalf--it's hard to say why Saruman was ever seen as trustworthy in his eyes--save I suspect we'll see some of the conversations that led to such a perception along the way. And there's certainly the contrast to be seen between the two of them.
Kitty
· 11 September 2006
· Chapter 7: Competition
Now I don’t only despise Saruman, I’m condemning him more and more. He did steal to gain knowledge and didn’t anything to even try and help this poor man? Disgusting. And the story about him and Olórin ... somehow it seems very typical of Saruman to destroy his own work out of fear it could be not better than that of Olórin. Really, the Valar should have refused to take his offer to go, suspecting the outcome.
Saruman may want to defeat Sauron, but obviously only if *he* himself is the hero who brings Sauron and his whole host down in the end, and men shouldn’t dare to want to do the same?? Didn’t he listen to *why* he was sent to Middle-earth in the first place? If Galadriel and Gandalf have been known even a part of this all, I wonder more and more *why* they were so surprised about his treachery in the end.
Loved Gandalf defeating Old Man Willow through his humour and singing. Yes, that is our Gandalf – and the great difference to Saruman! And it was nice to see him with Tom Bombadil.
Author's reply
I suspect that Curumo over the years did his best to show only his wisdom and garnered knowledge publically, and used the power of his voice judiciously and increasingly as time went on.
I also suspect that, as Bodkin points out, there is too much "self" in Saruman's view of himself and his role in Middle Earth, and that he disregards how much all within Middle Earth need to unite to bring down Sauron this second time. After all, it took the coming of the Valar to defeat Morgoth in the end; that he'd decide it was his personal duty to destroy Sauron would be all too likely, I suspect.
And I like to think that Gandalf's own appreciation of humor and music would allow him to slip by the malicious tree at the heart of the Old Forest, and that Tom would appreciate that fact as well.
Thanks so much for the feedback.
Queen Galadriel
· 11 September 2006
· Chapter 7: Competition
So, Saruman and Sauron worked side by side at one time, did they? Chilling. And even more so that Saruman would go into Mordor itself for less than good reasons. Still, I don't think he really realises where he's headed. This fascination with Sauron's abilities is not a good thing, and I think he ought to at least realise that, but he's obviously being corrupted already. That one of the Maiar would do something as petty as stealing a scroll and then be foolish enough to copy and donate it back, is appalling! Still, he isn't wholly evil yet, and his advice to the Blue Wizards about how to try to help the people of the East (who so obviously need help) is good. And it's good that he didn't stick around after what he saw in that judgement. That poor man!
Sounds like Radagast is doing well, though.
Gandalf aught to have been the leader from the beginning; he has the true compassion, humour, and humility for the task. And ah! he's found what will be the Shire! :)
God bless,
Galadriel
Author's reply
According to Unfinished Tales Saruman and Sauron both followed particularly after Aule, and that this was where Sauron learned of the means to craft Rings of Power. I've always been suspicious of why, then, it was he needed to have the help of Celebrimbor to create the Rings.
As for the wisdom he dispenses to the Blue Wizards--on the surface it appears fine; but he certainly doesn't indicate they need to use what influence they can to support beneficient government from the beginning, I fear. But he's not fully evil--just terribly self-absorbed and self-important. But instead of helping the one brother he just lets it go. Just as he didn't encourage the wisdom of the two closest to the royal line of Rhuadar to be accepted, now he doesn't reprove the selfishness of the self-made Ghantsi.
And I think that Gandalf, having seen the beauty of those lands that formerly belonged to Cardolan, would wish to see them properly settled by a folk that would bring out their best.
And Radagast was already at work as he was able and best suited to work.
Lee
· 11 September 2006
· Chapter 7: Competition
Curumo makes my skin crawl, really he does. And I mean that in the best possible way. You're a marvellous writer!
Off topic: I recall another review I read for King's Commision, I think, that dealt with where you got all the names for your OC's. I thought you might be interested in a cool little program called "Everchanging Book of Names" or EBoN, that generates random names based on rule sets. Available for free in the normal download are Sindarin, Quenya, Adûnaic, Westron, Black Speech, Khuzdûl and Valarin from Tolkien's world, as well as Finnish, Viking, Arthurian and Latin. It's cool to play with, even if you're not interested in using it for your stories.
Find it at http://ebon.uni.cc
Author's reply
Oh, thanks for the link--I'll have to check it out, particularly as I work harder at manufacturing Adunaic names for the northern Dunedain. And that someone had managed to produce a program that does what I've been working at manually is interesting, and I'm glad for it!
And thank you so much for your praise. I appreciate it.
Dreamflower
· 11 September 2006
· Chapter 7: Competition
Fascinating look at the workings of Saruman's downfall. Of course, with the attitude he had, it was pretty much inevitable, but clearly he left himself open to all sorts of influences around him--the scrolls with their half-hints, Mordor and Barad-dur, the wicked rulers in the East. I was fascinated by the exchange with the dying brother of the Ghantsi (Khan?) and wondered if it was that in dying he could see some of the strange guests true nature or if he was simply contemptuous of someone who failed to speak out.
I wonder what the Blue Wizards will make of the suggestions from Saruman on what to do--it's advice that could cut both ways, depending on *who* they find to lead such a kingdom...
And I also liked the tale of Olorin's making a jewel of light, and Curumo's efforts to best it, and how neither of them completely succeeded. Is that tale hinted of in canon, or one of your own? It seems very "JRRT" to me...
And to see the meeting between Gandalf and Tom was delightful!
Author's reply
I do twist our-world words at times to meet the needs of Middle Earth, as you know. Whether the dying brother sees Curumo's true nature or only disparages one he sees as unwilling to display honor and interfere in such injustice is hard to say. And you are SO right about the advice offered Pallando and Alatar being capable of cutting both ways.
The story of the gems of light is strictly my own, and I'm deeply honored that you so compare it to the Master's own work--the highest compliment! Thank you so much, Dreamflower.
And I think that in many ways Tom and Gandalf had a lot in common, although with his own focus on his task Gandalf didn't have a lot of time to spend with the Eldest; that last visit as the Hobbits returned to the Shire must have been appreciated by both. And am so glad you found it delightful.
harrowcat
· 11 September 2006
· Chapter 7: Competition
Saruman - so selfish and self-centred. Ambitious and hating it when he fails to live up to his own expectations and wishes. Looking down his nose at those who wish to work for good, together! Even though his desire is to defeat evil it is entirely for the wrong reasons and so, even it it had been achieved would have led to worse evil in the end. Those who are wisest in ME see through him already. Those who came as well as he seem to be more willing to wish that he will choose to work for the good of all. I appreciate the notion that he turned to the production of labour saving machines because Olorin wasn't going to compete in it. And that Galadriel is the one to appreciate his achievment in producing the gem, poor as Saruman perceives it to be.
Mithrandir - Able to rejoice in the beauty of ME and grieve over the loss of that beauty made up of people and land. I love it that Old Man Willow (well not so old at this point) is overcome by humour. This is true of many people I think. They respond well to a light touch.
His laughter failed, and his expression became stern. “And now that land is no more. Why did your masters send Curumo here?”
“I am told he offered himself for the service.”
Iarwain snorted. “He would be seen as the hero who in the end brings down the servants of the Shadow, would he? Nay, brother, if that is to be done, it must be as it was before, because all of good will and a desire for freedom to find their own way and to allow others the same right fight side by side. Can he not see that? Nay, instead he guards not his tongue when those of ill will seek information on the movements of the King’s son.”
Gandalf went utterly still in surprise. “You know this? How?”
“The wind speaks to me, as do those of good will who keep an eye on the doings at the crossroads village in the Breelands. He was impolitic at best.”
I like it the Iarwain refers to Olorin as 'brother' and cuts to the heart of the knowledge that Gandalf needs to understand and know.
Really enjoying this Larner. Spent yesterday drooling over RVs and Motor Homes. Fell in love with one. Just wish I could afford it and had the time to put it to use. Definitely on the wish list!
Author's reply
Alas, Saruman learned to hide much of his self-centeredness over time, but never truly changed inside; and refuses to realize there was a reason five and not one were sent to Middle Earth.
Galadriel saw the accomplishment of both Maiar and appreciated what it meant, that Olorin wished a particular effect reached and so asked the Lady of Light herself to aid in reaching that goal, while Curumo couldn't appreciate his own accomplishment of tying the Light to his gem from the beginning, mistaking the beauty of the shape of Olorin's gem for its full worth, and failing to realize that Olorin didn't wish to show anyone up but to produce something to aid in bringing about a reconciliation between Aule and Yavanna.
I wonder what being married to Aule must have been like for the Lady of the Fullness of the Earth? I know that there were so many times my husband and I, both of whom are in many ways strong individuals, would quarrel and bicker; how much moreso must such situations risen between the Smith and his consort?
We aren't fully certain from Tolkien's writing as to what Iarwain was intended to be--that he might have been a Maia gone independent and making himself a patron of the special places of Middle Earth as well as the eventual personal guardian of the land in which the Ringfinder and Ringbearer came to their own maturity seems possible, and satisfies me, at least.
My husband and I had motorhomes almost all our married life, and traveled throughout the U.S. and part of Canada in them. I miss mine, and hope one day to have another small one so I can again travel about a bit and carry a bit of home with me. I know the longing you must be feeling.
Bodkin
· 9 September 2006
· Chapter 6: Arrivals
Olorin will listen - and he is interested in other people's replies. I'm not surprised that Cirdan recognised him as the one who would stir people to action. Unlike Curunir - arrogant is a better word for him.
I wonder what did happen to the Blue Wizards?...
Author's reply
Oh, yes, Olorin is quite a different animal than Curumo, I think. And the arrogance and secret insecurity in Saruman becomes more obvious.
As for the Blue Wizards--they do make an appearance in the newest chapter. Hope you appreciate their appearance.
Lee
· 9 September 2006
· Chapter 6: Arrivals
Simply beautiful, Larner! Thank you for taking me on yet another wonderful adventure. I have always wanted to know more about the Istari, and I am sure you have a Palantir of your own to spy out the true tales of days gone by.
I'm looking forward to the next chapters with joy in the knowledge that you write LONG stories :-)
Author's reply
I wish I did have a palantir of my own, although our imaginations serve well enough, I suppose.
And thank you so much for letting me know how well my own forays into Middle Earth are accepted. Thank you so much!
Linda Hoyland
· 9 September 2006
· Chapter 6: Arrivals
IT was interesting to read about Radagast and Gandalf receiving his ring.,
Author's reply
Radagast has always been one of my favorite characters we see little of in the stories; the idea of the wizard who devoted himself to birds and beasts was fascinating to me when I was young.
And how Cirdan would recognize in Gandalf his true nature and would give him the Ring of Fire just seemed so logical.
Dwelf
· 8 September 2006
· Chapter 6: Arrivals
Two more chapters, and already the stage is set, the characters ready to play their part.
The atmosphere is already thickening, the intrigues entangled.
The North of Middle Earth was a sad place to live at the time, much divided and the poorer the people and the land become for it. You know, in a few words, how to shape a land and its people. In a few words, the essential is well understood and the reader feels the atmosphere.
I’ve always loved Tom Bombadil, and never really underdstood what he was doing there (in the middle of Frodo’s quest) as if Tolkien has lost something in the wrong book. But it was a very refreshing meeting for the 4 hobbits and I am sure gave Frodon some hope for what was to come. And now, through your story, I appreciate even more his presence and his importance, and of course his strange “wisdom”. Every words he says has a meaning and I can’t help wondering if when he asked Curumo if he was looking for “his brother”, it was only in reference to their old time in Aüle’s service.
Your description of Curumo’s behaviour is brutal and subtle at the same time. Brutal because he is immediately unfriendly and there is no question that anybody would like him or even give him the time of day. And yet, he awakes pity in us (and I am sure he would hate that most of all). I find him and his situation sad. He is obviously lost, unprepared for his task even clumsy (his doubt about using horse is quite amusing). He is over confidant but in the wrong settings. We should not be too harsh on him; he was/is one of the most brillant helpers of Aüle, his intelligence, skills and knowledge are not matched in Valinor (now that Sauron and Faenor are gone), he was always praised and admired by all, he is a mayar so he is almost at the top of the “food chain” (forgive my expression). Noone can blame him for having a high opinion of himself. His arrogance is based on an eternity of brightness and power. And beside he volonteered for the job. Proud of saving the world without realising a second of the risks. Whereas Olorin took a long time to agree but he did it in full knowledge and with a bit of fear (I think, if I read you right). So I am not surprised as his behaviour both in the tavern with the ‘hooded man’ and in Rhuadar. I agree with your author note to Dreamflower, he mendled with other lives, did not realised it at first maybe, but can not help doing it again and again, and so maybe digging his on fall. And he cringed at the idea of bending to others, because he never had to do that and in his mind, he would never do such things, and so cannot understand why anyone would do such things willingly.
Of course, I loved Olorin and his journey and his arrival to the Grey Havens. As I loved Cirdan, we never see enough of that one. He is always there like a shadow and I am sure he affected things truly and in depth, yet he is barely mentioned anywhere.
And for me, Radagast is of these heroes who never received medals, but without whom victory would be a bitter word, a word of ashes.
Thnak you again for allowing us to travel with you.
Author's reply
I am so honored by this review, Dwelf, for you have indeed cut to the heart of the whole piece, I think. That you appreciate the clumsiness of Saruman as he tries to find (or force) his way is heartening. As Bodkin has indicated elsewhere there is too much "self" in Saruman, and he does as you point out, make a striking contrast to the greater humility of Gandalf. I agree, there was probably a bit of fear in Olorin's consideration of accepting the commission offered him.
I, too, have wanted to see more of Radagast and Cirdan; at least writing fanfiction allows us all to flesh them out more fully.
And thank you for indicating you enjoy going on the journey with me, wherever it take us.
Kitty
· 6 September 2006
· Chapter 6: Arrivals
What a start for the chapter! At least Curumo seems to have had a bad conscience, if he had to tell himself this after his betrayal of Endorgil. But still, I want to kick him.
Mirdunmar seems to be a sensible guy, and he is right – the permanent strife against each other was their downfall and they should stop it. If one of them would name himself King, I fear the others would fight him.
Hm ... Saruman saw the wisdom in this, but couldn’t bear to see them bow their knees? *rolls eyes* Now, he was not the one who had to do this, and is proving over and again he is too proud for his own good.
Olórin was *such* a contrast to Curumo! Really, Larner, even if one didn’t know the outcome, it would be obvious who is the more trustworthy and why Círdan gave Narya to Gandalf and not to Curumo.
Enjoyed the story about the hat. In the end it was something like Gandalfs’s trademark, wasn’t it?
Author's reply
Curumo isn't lost yet, although he's on his way. But I certainly want to kick him, too.
Ventari and Mirdunmar see where their continued arguing, battling, and seeking to keeping themselves Rhuadari first will take their folk. But Saruman himself has a hard time bending the knee, and thus will have difficulty seeing others do it, particularly to others.
At least we have now a reason WHY Gandalf wore his hat, don't we? Heh!
Thanks so much for the feedback.
French Pony
· 6 September 2006
· Chapter 6: Arrivals
I love that Gandalf's first thoughts upon landing are how to encourage and nurture his sense of humor about the world. He's the only one who doesn't seem to take his mission seriously, which is probably why he was the one who Got It in the end.
Author's reply
I think Gandalf took this mission very seriously, but realized he must retain a sense of humor if he is to get through it with his sanity intact. Those who take themselves and others too seriously will never get far in the end.
Am so glad you're following this.
Baggins Babe
· 6 September 2006
· Chapter 6: Arrivals
No wonder Olorin was the one who was able to lead and inspire others. He has humour and compassion and is not too proud to accept advice from others. It is not surprising that Cirdan gives him Narya as soon as he meets him, being a very far-sighted Elf.
Saruman's pride is already too well-developed and he does not have a sense of humour - dangerous traits in one so powerful......
Author's reply
Yes, Olorin's humor and compassion were his saving graces. And Cirdan's foresight has shown him this one NEEDS Narya.
And you are certainly correct about the lacks that lead to Saruman's self-destruction in the end.
Thanks so much for the review.
harrowcat
· 6 September 2006
· Chapter 6: Arrivals
Two Larner chapters before I have to go off for three days is a treat.
So each arrives according to the way their personalities are dictating and people are already reacting to that.
Saruman may be learned but he fails to see to the true heart of nobility if he doesn't understand this....
yet he could not bear to remain to see the likes of Maeleg bow the knee to another, no matter how strongly the blood of Elros Tar-Minyatar ran through his veins.
But Cirdin is very deep-seeing and fore-sighted. I am always sad that we see so little of him in LOTR. Thank you for making him come more alive in your tales.
Author's reply
Give my love to your family and students.
And we do see differing reactions indeed to the varying personalities. None is precisely like the others, and of course they'll elicit varying reactions.
Basic self-centeredness of Curumo/Saruman poorly prepares him to be empathic. Too bad the Valar didn't appreciate this truth from the beginning, save, of course, for Vaire. But she, as the weaver for the Valar, would better appreciate the end results of patterns woven than her fellows, I think.
I wish I could bring more Cirdan into the stories, and am always glad when I can find reason to include him and his perceptions, which after all were described by the Master himself as being most discerning in nature.
Have a good three days away.
Queen Galadriel
· 5 September 2006
· Chapter 6: Arrivals
Maybe it's just me, but the north of Middle-earth during this time seems a very sad place.
None connected the arrival of Saruman in the Mortal Lands with the destruction of the royal house of Cardolan save, perhaps, Iarwain. As the Eldest
no longer freely mixed with the rest of the Wise, however, he was not likely to betray Curumo’s secrets. It was best, Curumo reasoned after the fact, that
there be but one royal line in the north as it was best there be one in the south; and already had Endorgil foreseen his own demise before Saruman’s arrival.
Therefore there was nothing to have been done to turn aside the fate of the young Man and his lineage, if it was already written in the stars....
I don't believe it! Saruman! Oh, he's so...so wrong. So pitiable, and maybe I *would* pity him if he didn't have such questionable ends and use such means to obtain them. As it is, if I were to come face to face with him I couldn't look at him. :(
Even if Radagast was reluctant, he seems to be doing very well, and it would be lovely to get to see at least a bit of his visit with Tom Bombadil! :) They'd get along excellently.
What a contrast between Gandalf and Saruman! I just love Gandalf's ready humour and how he delighted in the tempest. No wonder it was he who played such a great part in helping to overcome Saruman in the end; he led not with power but with love, being a friend to so many who fought the darkness.
But where are the blue wizards going? :)
God bless,
Galadriel
P.S. This is completely off subject, and I think I may have asked before, but how do you come up with so many wonderful Gondorian names? When I finish "A Gift..." I'm going to beginnwork on a story set in Gondor, and I am absolutely desperate to come up with or fine enough names. I've been all through a whole bunch of Elvish names, but most of them sound just a little too...well, Elvish, though there are some really good ones. I'm about ready to just never mind the meanings and make up names as I do for my original fantasies, but then who knows what meaningless things I'll come up with! Oh! See there, I can't discard the meanings, even when I try.
Author's reply
I suspect strongly Saruman carried with himself the seeds of his own destruction from his acceptance of the commission as one of the Istari, and so that's the way I fear I tend to write him. He is pitiable indeed, or he would be if he were not so powerful and with such a scope for his foolishness and integral selfishness to play out.
What the interactions between the various wizards and Bombadil are like may be better shown in time.
And I do think Gandalf's sense of humor stood all in good steading as he met his own commission. He can appreciate Osse and not feel sorry for him or superior to him, and this empathy is with him throughout his stint as a wizard in Middle Earth.
The blue wizards, we are told, disappeared into the east, and that's where I've sent them. Perhaps we'll meet them as Saruman indulges in his own investigations of those lands.
As for how I do my Gondorian names--I mostly play with known name elements and add other syllables that work well with them, as I did with the longer Haradri names in "Lesser Ring." Gil, mir, mar, thor, dor, rion, lion, and so on are common name elements, and so I add to them or mix them; rion and lion both indicate "son of", while ien and eth are common female endings.
Interesting question, of course.
Saruman may see much and think himself wise, but he doesn't appear to know how to use caution, and he is already on his way to his downfall, even now. And I don't know who this black stranger is, but I don't like him and I know either he or whatever evil he serves was behind the ambush.
The intrigue is up now, at least for me.
God bless,
Galadriel
Author's reply
When we trust in our own cleverness, all too often we sow the seeds of our own destruction; and already does Saruman sow his own.
And you do well to dislike this black stranger.
Queen Galadriel
· 5 September 2006
· Chapter 4: Choices Made
Oh shoot. Sorry about the blank review there.
I think, of the five, Olorin seems the most willing. Very interesting how he formed his shape. To tell you the truth it reminds me a little of sculpting, or, oddly, doll-making. :) Maybe because basic shape, features and details, then hair and clothing are usually the order I work in when I do such things. I really love this bit:
"Do you like it, Lord, Lady?" he asked. "Perhaps a piece of whimsy, but enough of a touch of elegance at odds with the rest to amuse those with whom
I must treat, don’t you agree?"
That's like him! :)
Very interesting that he willingly put his memories and experiences into a staff and Manwe actually had to give some *back* to him, when the others didn't want to give so much up.
God bless,
Galadriel
Author's reply
Yes, the one with the sense of humor, who realizes he will need that humor to properly judge others and to survive what is coming and see it through.
And he gives more than he needs to, and has some restored; he chooses the lower seat and is lifted up....
The one who truly remains faithful.
Dreamflower
· 5 September 2006
· Chapter 6: Arrivals
So Saruman betrayed Cardolan deliberately, and not out of ignorance! That makes it even worse--that in his arrogance, he felt he could meddle thusly in lives. Of course, he never gets over that--it's what fuels his lust for Power.
It's also interesting to see his reactions to the house of Rhuadar. At least this time he kept his mouth shut, mostly. But it's clear that he has no respect for honor when he sees it, accounting it as weakness, I suppose.
I do hope we get to see Radagast's visit with Tom Bombadil. That, I think, would be fun--in many ways their natures are similar. I think they would get on very well indeed.
And the Blue Wizards arrive, and depart, leaving us none the wiser for their intentions. I know that you say you'll be concentrating on the other three, but I do hope that you will put your considerable imagination to work for those two, at least a little. You did a brilliant job describing Harad, in "Lesser Rings" and there was less to go by in canon than this!
And now we see Gandalf's journey--I love his good-humored visit with Osse and Uinen, and how he truly enjoyed the storm! And Cirdan's response to his arrival was perfect!
Author's reply
I don't think the betrayal was deliberate, but Saruman has realized the implications of his conversation with the black man in Bree and the subsequent murder of the prince of Cardolan. I think he's just indulging in rationalization right now. But having meddles once, he finds himself doing so again and again; and it adds to the resentment he feels toward Gandalf when he comes. Gandalf is recognized by Galadriel and promoted by her as logical head to the White Council; he's been the recipient of the gift of Narya from Cirdan; he's welcome throughout the homes of the Free Peoples and in the halls of the Elves, whether below the earth in Mirkwood, on it in Rivendell, or above it in Lorien. I wonder if Saruman was ever welcomed in Lorien, by the way. Hmmm--obviously that will need to be touched on in this story! Interesting situation to consider.
Radagast and Bombadil would get along famously, I think, as he would with the Ents as well.
At least Saruman is keeping his mouth shut, and his wisdom is still leading him at least in part.
It says in the Sil and UT that Saruman made frequent trips eastward--perhaps we'll learn more of Alatar and Pallando through those. And am honored you so obviously appreciated my version of Harad.
As for Gandalf's arrival--we already have his arrival at least partly described by Tolkien himself, so I just added to it a bit....
Thanks so much for it!
Queen Galadriel
· 5 September 2006
· Chapter 3: The Voyage
He thought he would go mad during the voyage. As accustomed as he was to being amongst his fellows and those Elves associated with Aüle, Curumo had
no idea how to be alone. There was none by him to marvel at his skill or cleverness or power, none to pay attention to his brilliance, none to report his
wisdom and insights to others.
Hmm, well, now would be a good time to learn not to rely on other people marvelling at supposed cleverness and insite and so on and so forth. For shame!
Then there was the simple fact that he had little skill as yet in dealing with the needs of what appeared to be the body of an elderly Man. On cooler
nights his joints would stiffen; while during the clear days he would suffer under the light of the sun, his skin blistering with sunburn, his lips and
the skin of his hands drying and cracking from exposure to wind and weather and from the handling of lines and sheets. And the indignity of relieving
himself he found almost beyond endurance.
*tries not to laugh* I know, it's cruel, but I can't help it! The thought of proud Saruman having to deal with aching joints and sunburn and...and the last...*snorts*
He realized he had not brought enough in the way of food and drink to get him all the way to Ennor, and vaguely remembered one of the Teleri trying
to teach him how to bait a hook and catch fish; but on examining the line and hook provided to him he found he had little memory of what had been told
him.
Well, that's why we're supposed to actually *listen* when we're taught something, isn't it now? Oh well, we all have to learn the hard way sometime. I guess he knows now, and it serves him right to have to deal with his brother's teasing.
I just love Uinen! She reminds me a lot of a dear, dear friend who attended CCB with me and who was so much a part of why I loved it there.
Quickly Uinen calmed the restless waves that rocked the skiff, looking after her husband. He resents the restlessness and envy planted in his center
by the words of the Betrayer, and finds he must often fight against them. You will find that such utterances, once listened to seriously, are seductive
and must be repeatedly thrust from one.
Poor Osse! How terrible! It kind of reminds me, though, of the effect of the Ring.
God bless,
Galadriel
Author's reply
It was Morgoth who taught Sauron and who inspired Sauron to create his Ring, after all, for Sauron was emulating Morgoth. That the effects of Morgoth's temptations would have the same effects as the lure of the Ring just seems extraordinarily right to me. And Uinen knows her Maia well by now.
As for Saruman not wishing to LISTEN along the way--well, that's just what I see as part of his nature--always thinking himself as knowing what to do. But he's not completely lost as yet. Saruman has gone into this thinking he'll be doing the prodding and teaching; that those who teach best will need to learn along the way.
"It's a very ancient saying
but a true and honest thought
that if you become a teacher,
by your pupils you'll be taught."
And Saruman is realizing the full implications and limitations of his current shape!
Nope, I haven't forgotten about this one, just haven't had time.
Curumo stood before Manwë and Eärendil. What appearance would you have those who accept this duty assume? he asked.....
This whole scene is so interesting. I felt as if I was watching it, and knowing Gandalf and Saruman through the trilogy, it was interesting to see how Curumo just changed his shape like that. And I guess it was really different for him afterward. Even knowing how he turned out, and while I don't like him even now, I have to feel sorry for him; being an ordinary human being (well, almost ordinary) with basic needs, would be difficult to get used to. And as always, I love your portrayal of Earendil.
God bless,
Galadriel
Author's reply
Even now Curumo thinks in terms of leadership where the actual commission is to inspire courage and resolve; and so he starts out having to accept correction. And realizing he is bound by mortal rules would be pretty embarrassing for such as Curumo, I think.
Raksha The Demon
· 2 September 2006
· Chapter 4: Choices Made
A lovely, fitting start to Olorin's journey.
Wonderful descriptions of the two wizards' staffs.
And a fitting comment by Varda that Olorin would find friends in Middle-earth; he seems to have had a wonderful ability to befriend all sorts of people - Elves, hobbits, Men, dwarves, etc. - that is not really emphasized with the other wizards, and that of course helped him accomplish Sauron's downfall, as well as enriching his time as a mortal.
Author's reply
So glad you appreciate it. I decided to go with the movie versions of the staves for Gandalf and Saruman, but tried to make that of Radagast in keeping with what I see as his character as well.
The compassion of Olorin is emphasized in UT and the Sil, and so it had to be emphasized here as well; and you're right that only his ability to befriend and communicate with all aided him to accomplish his task. As for what doing so added to his time in semi-mortal guise--what a wonderful perception! Thanks for that thought, for it's not one I'd thought on, really.
Had hoped to post the next chapter today, but find it needs major revision after still another visit to the Tale of Years. Drats anyway. But will have it up soon.
SurgicalSteel
· 1 September 2006
· Chapter 5: Journey Begun
Interesting. I wonder who the hooded stranger was? And Saruman's already looking for a better/more civilized place. He'd have done better to stay in the North.
Author's reply
I suspect you are right--indeed Saruman would have done better to remain in the north, although at first he won't go too far south.
As for the hooded stranger, you don't have to look too far north to perhaps realize who that might have been.
SurgicalSteel
· 1 September 2006
· Chapter 4: Choices Made
Quite a contrast to Saruman here - Radagast is willing to serve (although reluctant). Gandalf is immediately willing to undertake the mission, to be as a servant, and to diminish himself far more that the Valar would require. His humility is likely what saved him from Saruman's fate.
Author's reply
Indeed, the others provide quite a contrast to Saruman. Radagast already indicates he'd rather continue the supporting of life and growth before and during the actual fight against Sauron and the cleanup and reclamation afterwards, but at least he's looking at making certain all continues as Yavanna and Vana have led the way; while Gandalf looks to make himself truly part of the process of living in Middle Earth and fighting Sauron alongside the others rather than leading the fight and appearing the hero.
I agree--his humility was indeed what helped save him. Great power sublimated all too often ends up overwhelming the one who holds it, and that this didn't happen with Gandalf/Olorin indicates he was very aware of the danger he was in to fall to the same desire to order others. To do that requires a good deal of humility and a proper sense of perspective, of which a good sense of humor is often a component.
SurgicalSteel
· 1 September 2006
· Chapter 3: The Voyage
And even more he's showing the failing that will lead to his ultimate end. Shame, really, that he couldn't swallow his pride.
Author's reply
Again, hubris was accounted among the Greeks as the most deadly of sins, and Curumo has it in spades.
SurgicalSteel
· 1 September 2006
· Chapter 2: Marching Orders
Interesting how 'Saruman's' already showing the traits that will ultimately lead to his downfall.
Author's reply
It was noted in one discussion I was party to on TheOneRing.Net site that both Saruman and Sauron originally were accounted vassals and students of Aule, according to the Sil and Unfinished Tales. So began a rather short debate, as I remember it, on what it might have been that led to the downfall of both. I'd remembered Gandalf as having been mostly tied to Manwe, but a review of the two sources shows he actually wasn't tied to any one Vala, but had instead been the greatest of the Maiar and was particularly known for his compassion shown anonymously, to strengthen which, apparently, he frequented the company of Este, Nienna, and Irmo, calling often upon the control of dreams, with which he was associated.
Pride goes before the fall; and it appears that somehow Aule's Maiar appeared to be prone to that failing. That Vaire, Vala of Weaving and ME's answer to the Norns, would recognize hubris growing in Curumo and realized also where it might lead seemed only natural.