October 10, 2002

To Brett C. Regarding the Elves
Rune of Mirkwood

Thank you, Brett C., for your comments on the Elves and the "lembas" (Elvish waybread), but I had already stated that in my essay dated 10-05-02. I wasn't asking how the Elves "sustained their youth and beauty"...I know they are immortal and beautiful, among any living creature in Middle Earth. My question was concering in the movie, just an observation I was making: how Strider, Legolas, and Boromir "sustained their strength" since I never saw them sleep or eat; I only saw the Hobbits cook and eat. We can "assume" they "shared" their meals, not being stingy little folk. It seemed since their journey began from Rivendell, much travelling and fighting occurred - very tiresome looking to me, until even the very end. It wasn't until they came to Lothlorien and at the graciousness of Celeborn and Lady Galadriel, were able "to take rest and sleep"..also, "lembas" (before I knew about it...) was one of the gifts Galadriel gave to the Fellowship, so then my question was answered. Also, I knew that Legolas carried one knife in his belt in the book(s); what I think is fascinating is: Peter Jackson decided to incorporate an ancient artform of fighting (swift and deadly) and incorporated it into Legolas in his movie - how befitting for a Sindarin Elf, one of the Great Greenwood Realm!!! One knife would serve it's purposes, I presume, in use for cutting or possibly defending oneself, but Legolas had his bow and arrows to do that. We shall get to see him use his knives in the Two Towers, even more so. Your writings are greatly appreciated, as you are very knowledgeable!

For Elfhelm, if you wish to see Shadowfax and the other Hero Horses of the Two Towers, there is a download and pictures at the website of LordoftheRings.net