Thank you all for your insightful comments, and you in particular, <B>the mortal elf</B>, for resurrecting my thread. <P><B>kayman</B>, I had not really thought of the analogy of situation, although you are correct that the circumstances do not precisely correspond.<P>I think I was looking for the sense of underlying desperation, the imminence of a bitter struggle to the death. Keep in mind that the Battle of Helm's Deep was not fought against the great Enemy - only against his wayward tool. All previous conflicts with Sauron himself had resulted in defeat for the forces of good. In the movie at least, I point to Osgiliath.<P>They were up against the wall. It was down to the wire. Either the defenders of Minas Tirith would prevail, or Gondor and the free world of Middle-earth would fall. If I may personify the White City: “Après moi, le déluge.”<p>[ February 16, 2003: Message edited by: Nuranar ]
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I admit it is better fun to punt than be punted, and that a desire to have all the fun is nine-tenths of the law of chivalry.
Lord Peter Wimsey
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