[Child of the 7th Age]

Bethberry --

Your root and branch analogy is probably a better literary model. It is more subtle and takes into account gradations of change and meaning.

However, personally, in terms of my own "onion", I didn't think of each new layer as being totally distinct. Rather each layer re-embodies a bit of what's underneath plus whatever "new" ingredient comes to the fore.

But there is one way that I do prefer my onion. For me, peeling an onion is hard, really hard. It's not dry or dead, quite the opposite. It has plenty of sting and zip. (I am allergic and I cry all over.) And for me, ferreting out the different layers of meaning in Tolkien is also hard, fun but difficult. Branches and roots are too peaceful, too gradual, while peeling an onion is definitely an interactive activity, and that appeals to me. (You should see me peel onions. I have to keep the tap running. It requires a definite commitment of will.)

Whenever you deal with models like this, I believe it is actually more a question of what fits into your own personal consciousness and life experiences as well as the peculiarities of the particular author. I do like, however, the organic quality of the root/branch metaphor and can understand why that would have particular significance for "Bethberry".

sharon

[ October 02, 2002: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]