The Measure Of A Man by Virtuella
Soledad · 1 January 2009 · Chapter 12: The betrothal
Well, it was high time that Fana took things into her own hands. I've been biting my nails for the two of them and am so very happy that things seem to turn out well.
Author's reply
Thanks, I hope your fingernails will recover speedily. ;-)
Dreamflower · 1 January 2009 · Chapter 12: The betrothal
This is so lovely! Just a perfect penultimate chapter, with only just the tiniest bit of loose end left! First of all was the letter from Merry! You have no idea how much that made me grin! I am sure that is one letter that Deoric will cherish the rest of his life. And then getting to present the book to Lothiriel as Eomer's betrothal gift--I had somehow had a hunch that was what was up, but I wasn't sure until it happened! Finally, his reunion with Fana, and his realization of what an idiot he'd been. Beautifully done, dear! This story has been wonderfully paced and filled with insight. I do look forward to the wrap-up, but I can hope that someday we might see some new tales of Deoric and his family! I can already see several things I'd love to see you expand on, though I do understand that it might be quite a while before you have time for that.
Author's reply
Thanks! If there's anything you'd really like to see in a sequel, let me know, I've got a list of ideas (though, alas, neither a plot nor a theme yet). This story has been so enjoyable to write that I am certainly not disinclined to pick up the thread again.
curiouswombat · 1 January 2009 · Chapter 12: The betrothal
Happy New Year to you too! I have read this while my goose cooks - a lovely start to a year for me, and good beginnings for Déoric and Éomer too. I am happy that there will be another chapter but happy,too, to see them reconciled in this one.
Author's reply
Thanks, I hope you've enjoyed the goose! ;-)
Celeritas · 31 December 2008 · Chapter 11: Mending and binding
Yes! As soon as I saw Eomer grooming himself (though really, the swan should have clued me in) I thought I smelt some canon shipping on the horizon. (And thank you for not making Lothiriel drop dead gorgeous!) All of the book-making parts, of course, made me extremely happy, and Deoric becoming a tutor, and his getting the week off (seriously, man! Spend it with Fana! Now!), and his finally seeing Sigrun again. That drawing was marvelous. And finally, I have to congratulate you on the chapter title, fraught with so many relevant meanings!
Author's reply
I had struggled a bit with the chapter title and had several ones that I rejected, so I'm glad you like this one. Poor Deoric, all those readers bossing him around about Fana... ;-)
Linda Hoyland · 30 December 2008 · Chapter 11: Mending and binding
The book sounds beautiful.Deoric can be very proud of his handiwork!I think Eomer could have shown more enthusiasm,but I guess he is preoccupied. I guess Aragorn will want an illustrated book now! The scene where Deoric thought of his dead friend was very moving.
Author's reply
I would imagine that there are plenty of illustrated books in Gondor, even if this particular one had no pictures. I don't have the presumption to claim that Deoric has made the first illustrated book in ME, only the first in Rohan. Still, it would be interesting what Aragorn might think of it. "The scene where Deoric thought of his dead friend was very moving." I'm glad it worked well for you. Lia thought it was too, how shall I put it, aesthetically enhanced, not gritty enough. Truth be told, I was worried that it could turn out too soppy, so I deliberately kept it rather detached.
Elentarri · 30 December 2008 · Chapter 11: Mending and binding
Lovely!
Author's reply
Thanks. ;-)
Larner · 29 December 2008 · Chapter 11: Mending and binding
I WANT that book! Oh, I so want it! A worthy addition to the treasures of the Rohirrim, and one, I think, that will add to the acceptance by Lothiriel that this is the man she will gladly marry! So beautiful! Thank you for this lovely chapter. And I am so glad the coming of the Prince and princess of Dol Amroth was accompanied by the arrival of a swan! A good open!
Author's reply
I was a bit concerned that I had overdone it with the swan, but since nobody has complained yet, I assume it has worked out okay. Actually, it would have been a bit stupid to have a different species of bird in this chapter. The other ones, however, are really just birds in general without any emblematic significance. Interesting that quite a few people seem to be coveting that book, including yours truly. I wouldn't have believed before that I could make a book seem so very attractive. Lia wants me to draw the illustrations, but that is well beyond my skill!
Agape4Gondor · 28 December 2008 · Chapter 11: Mending and binding
I know I've already commented upon this chapter - but during the day, I was busy writing and reading and suddenly realized..... Deoric is one of my favorite OC's - You have made him a 'real' person for me....
Author's reply
You, that makes me really happy! I don't tend to look on fictional characters as on real people, but I do have a big soft spot for Deoric and I pride myself on having crafted him quite well. I could never wish for him to become real, though, because then he'd come to me and complain about his leg. ;-) Author Reply: Typo strikes: I meant, "you know..."
Dreamflower · 28 December 2008 · Chapter 11: Mending and binding
This chapter is wonderful! I am so glad for the pride that Deoric was able to take in presenting the book to his King, and the way he signed it at the end was very appropriate to the way such books often were signed. He deserves his vacation, and I hope that he will *FINALLY* figure things out with Fana. *shakes head*silly boy* I also like your take on the Eomer/Lothiriel romance: very nice! I hate to see this drawing to an end.
Author's reply
LOL, I can't win, can I? Once the situation between Deoric and Fana resolves - and I agree that it's high time for that - the story MUST draw to an end, I'm afraid. The moment when Deoric signs the book is one of my favourites in the story. I'm glad you liked it, too.
Agape4Gondor · 28 December 2008 · Chapter 11: Mending and binding
This was a truly beautiful chapter.... I wept for Sigrun and cheered Deoric for his courage - what a beautiful gift for the mourning mother! But I was about ready to slap Eomer - seems he is not 'couth' enough to realize a treasure when he holds it in his hands... I hope he doesn't treat Lothiriel in the same manner as he did THE BOOK. Well written and delightful.
Author's reply
Don't be too strict with Eomer - he recognizes the value of the book fine well, but he has other things on his mind right now. ;-)
curiouswombat · 28 December 2008 · Chapter 11: Mending and binding
I, too, am grateful to your brother Axel for his expert knowledge, and to you for being able to describe it all so well - the description of the book is fascinating. As is the description of Eomer and his thoughts on becoming betrothed to Lothiriel. I really am enjoying this story.
Author's reply
Oh, I'm glad you liked the passages about the bookbinding. After the conversation with my brother I had so many details I wanted to put in that I was getting worried the whole thing would turn out too technical.
Raksha The Demon · 18 December 2008 · Chapter 10: The wisdom of the minstrel
Looks like Deoric is getting some much-needed guidance; and Gleowine benefits by having his songs recorded for posterity. Gleowine is well-written here as a man bruised by sorrows but not beaten by them; just the right sort to teach Deoric not to be a young idiot. Good chapter!
Author's reply
Yes, I've come to quite liek Gleowine. I like him almost as much as Deoric, whom I'm rather in love with in spite of him being such an idiot. ;-)
Larner · 18 December 2008 · Chapter 10: The wisdom of the minstrel
Ah, a wonderful pair for advising these two young people, and the seeds of reunion are now sowed. Gleowine certainly has Deoric's number! And love that the pictures have convinced him to share the stories, even if it is on his own terms!
Author's reply
"Gleowine certainly has Deoric's number!" Is that an Americanism? I've never heard that expression, though I can guess from the context what it means.
Eluthaun · 17 December 2008 · Chapter 10: The wisdom of the minstrel
Every day when I start work at the restaurant I sidle up to the beaten lap-top, with a searing espresso cooling in my spare hand, while I log on to SOA in the hopes of seeing the new instalment of "Measure of a Man", (and "Aspects of Aragorn" for that matter). I particularly relish Gleowine's insight -that he has recognised Deoric's book as the mechanism by which Deoric hopes to reclaim a certain masculinity/dignity for himself. Tolkien's work was always brimming full of these little insights for me, and I think it is what makes his work the most precious to me -so it's a delight to see someone managing as much in their own right. I do hope (selfishly) to see more insights into the character of Deoric's father: I'm delighting in the development whereby Deoric's perspective that his father was a consummate warrior is being peeled away to reveal a duty-bound soldier with the heart of a minstrel... I could harp on like this endlessly! I promise I won't -though. Anyway, thanks for all your hard work -it makes my morning espresso taste even sweeter.
Author's reply
Harp away all you like. I'm glad you enjoy the story so much. There will be a little bit more about Feadred, I think it's in the nect chapter.
Jay of Lasgalen · 17 December 2008 · Chapter 10: The wisdom of the minstrel
I apologise for being an intermittent reviewer for this wonderful story. I love the development of Déoric's skills and the slow progress of the book set against the background of his home life - but there are times when I want to kick him for his self pity and thick-headed refusal to accept that Fana might still want him! Finally though, Fana has spoken to Dirlayn, and Gléowine seems to have achieved the impossible in making Déoric listen to him. I do hope they finally really talk to each other and reach an understanding - no doubt with Niarl's heartfelt approval :) I love the weaving of Tolkien's songs into such an original tale. Well done! Jay
Author's reply
I admit I have tried to make Deoric as annoying as I felt I could still get away with... Please don't feel you have to apologize!
Agape4Gondor · 17 December 2008 · Chapter 10: The wisdom of the minstrel
For every king of the Mark, from Eorl the Young to Théoden King, I have made a song. I had to take a moment to breathe when I read this... At one time, in the enthusiasm of youth, I promised myself I would write a Christmas song for every year I lived... I got through three years! :) What this minstrel is saying is an incredible accomplishment - I do not know if your hero is up to the writing of it.... Phew! *Sits back in awe!* As for Fana - I am soooo glad she went to Deoric's mom... I've got my fingers crossed for those two... And what a shock for the poor girl to realize that she reminds her love of things that once were but can never be again. I loved Gleowin's humility and giggled over the his 'modesty' as a king... A dear man and a treasure to have as a friend... Especially since he seems to give some really good advice. Excellent chapter!
Author's reply
Well, it's the work of his lifetime, and it was his job, so I think he would have managed that fairly well. Fana, of course, could have realized this earlier, but she's not really very bright that way. Remember that when she first appears, jumping out of that tree, she /reminds/ Deoric of them climbing trees together? I'm glad Tolkien told us so little about Gleowine, so that I could have my way with him. ;-)
Dreamflower · 17 December 2008 · Chapter 10: The wisdom of the minstrel
Oh, a beautiful chapter! It looks like Fana got the right advice from DIrlayn--and now Gleowine has told Deoric the truth! Good advice, too! Hopefully he will be less of a fool after this! But I loved the rest of the chapter too! Of course Gleowine saw through the tale (though as I said previously it *could* have had a grain of fact) but he also saw the truth in the fable. I'm so glad he changed his mind and decided to help. Did you make the verse at the end? An excellent example of Anglo-Saxon alliterative verse! I've tried my hand at it too, from time to time--it's hard! Harder than rhymes, I think...
Author's reply
Yes, that song was mine. I'm aware that it's nowhere near as good as the Tolkien one I quoted earlier in the chapter, but it was the best I could manage, being no poet...
Sunny · 17 December 2008 · Chapter 10: The wisdom of the minstrel
So Gléowine looked through Déoric's little fabrication, did he? And he was a good sport about it, too! :-) I can't shake the feeling that the fact that Déoric made up that little story that made Gléowine accept the idea that his songs should be written down. It certainly showed that Déoric has some instinct for the Minstrel's craft. And by making Déoric learn the songs by heart before he was permitted to write them down, Gléowine would also ensure that Déoric also learned due respect for that craft - as well as developing the mental tools for such memorization. I can just see Déoric astonishing everybody some time in the future by singing one of those songs. Hopefully he is able to carry a tune. ;-) And it was Gléowine who administered that well-deserved talking to! Hope Déoric gets out of his funk! Gléowine comes across as a father figure to Déoric. I assume that was intended? He certainly seems to need one! It shall also be interesting to see if Gléowine starts to see him as a sort of an apprentice - and perhaps in time as a sort of an extra son? Déoric certainly seems to be the chosen heir to Gléowine's treasury of songs!
Author's reply
"I can just see Déoric astonishing everybody some time in the future by singing one of those songs." Well, I think, scribe, artist, story teller /and/ singer would be a bit too much. ;-) Yes, Gléowine is meant to be a father figure. With his own father dead, there are several men who fulfil that role for Déoric: Léofred, Himlebed, even Wulfhere, but Gléowine is certainly the most crucial. I'm glad you perceived this passage much in the way it was intended.
Celeritas · 17 December 2008 · Chapter 10: The wisdom of the minstrel
Yes, I'm definitely liking Gleowine--from his seeing through Deoric's tale but also not calling him a liar (very nice digression on the meaning of Story there) to finally beginning to knock some sense into the guy! And he can get away with it because he's old!
Author's reply
I know, it was about time, wasn't it?
Celeritas · 16 December 2008 · Chapter 9: A fear of fire
What lovely imagery in this chapter: the new blades of grass flittered especially was delightfully original. The dream/fire sequence was one of your best ones yet, in my opinion, especially the conclusion that Deoric wouldn't be able to save Fana in the way he envisioned. Gleowine's native wit amused me, especially his refusing to give Deoric his songs lest the writing kill them! But at least Deoric is working on changing his mind, even through means that he sees as less than honorable.
Author's reply
I found Gleowine a hugely useful character, especially since Tolkien told us nothing about him, so I could do with him what I wanted.
Celeritas · 16 December 2008 · Chapter 8: The art of healing
Gah, how I dislike misunderstandings! (Except for the part where they drive the plot forward, that is!) I'm continuing to love the interactions between Deoric and the canons. Such a good thing that Eomer King gives credit where it's due.
Author's reply
Thank you!
Linda Hoyland · 15 December 2008 · Chapter 9: A fear of fire
I loved the ginger cat! What a risk to take to leave those parchments!Eomer will not be best pleased if they end up in the fire!
Author's reply
I thought you'd like the cat. I put it in especially for you. *Sucks up to Linda*
Dreamflower · 14 December 2008 · Chapter 9: A fear of fire
Oh dear! He's going to feel guilty for his little fable, isn't he? Yet it could have happened: the silver box and its contents could have been a remnant from Numenor...the tale changed over the years... I do hope that Gleowine will give him the tales...in spite of his little deception. He did make a valid point.
Author's reply
Nah, Gleowine is evil, he'll burn the manuscript and there'll be nothing left for Deoric but suicide. Well, on second thoughts, maybe not. ;-) I like my happy ends...
Larner · 13 December 2008 · Chapter 9: A fear of fire
A--he has made a fable and added to the wisdom of the day! Heh! And I think Gleowine, having been able to see the illustrations, will find himself relenting! Now, if he'd only admit to himself how much he loves Fana and stop imagining her response when he doesn't really know as he hasn't asked her, everyone would be happier! Heh!
Author's reply
Thanks for your comments!
Agape4Gondor · 12 December 2008 · Chapter 9: A fear of fire
What a beautiful chapter - and the quote at the end was priceless... One thing that I have always felt badly about is the fact that many do not know that Gondorians sang all the time too....
Author's reply
Thanks for your comments!