Stone King - The Barrow-Downs Discussion Forum

Sophia the Thunder Mistress · 03-17-2003, 02:55 PM

I think that one of the most amazing descriptions in Tolkien's writings is of the stone king that Frodo and Sam find in Ithilien. I absolutely love the imagery of the crown of flowers touched by the sun growing on the defaced statue.

I wondered if anyone had interpretations of what Tolkien meant by that scene, or if he said anything about it in his letters (which unfortunately, I don't have access to). I've always taken it as another embodiment of his theme that beautiful things are sometimes more beautiful when faded, but I've been thinking and I wondered if anyone had other interpretations. Other favorite descriptions are fun too...

03-17-2003, 02:55 PM	#1
Sophia the Thunder Mistress Scent of Simbelmynë Join Date: Apr 2002 Location: Aboard Highwind, bound for Traverse Town Posts: 1,780	Stone King I think that one of the most amazing descriptions in Tolkien's writings is of the stone king that Frodo and Sam find in Ithilien. I absolutely love the imagery of the crown of flowers touched by the sun growing on the defaced statue. I wondered if anyone had interpretations of what Tolkien meant by that scene, or if he said anything about it in his letters (which unfortunately, I don't have access to). I've always taken it as another embodiment of his theme that beautiful things are sometimes more beautiful when faded, but I've been thinking and I wondered if anyone had other interpretations. Other favorite descriptions are fun too... __________________ The seasons fall like silver swords, the years rush ever onward; and soon I sail, to leave this world, these lands where I have wander'd. O Elbereth! O Queen who dwells beyond the Western Seas, spare me yet a little time 'ere white ships come for me!