March 3, 2003

Response to Andrew on Arwen
Tom M.

When Arwen says that she'll "choose a mortal life" she means precisely that. If she chooses to remain with Aragorn, she becomes mortal. A very long-lived mortal. And her children will be mortal.

All the descendants of Melian and Thingol posed a problem for the Valar. The Elves are bound to the world so long as it lasts. All mortals pass through Mandos and go beyond the 'circles of the world'. At the end of the First Age, the 'half-Elven' were allowed a choice as to belonging to Elven or Human kind. Once the choice was made, it was irrevocable.

Elros chose humanity, became mortal, and all his descendants would be mortal. His twin Elrond chose Elfkind. Once either died, they would be parted forever. I imagine Elrond would be heartbroken at that. His child has the same choice to make. If she chooses mortality, she is bound to a different destiny, and will never see her parents or friends again. Ever. Choosing love with Aragorn, she loses Everything.