[Aethelwine]

Ah yes, and to ad to what Guinevere said before me about finding the straight path:

I am sure you are familiar, in one way or the other, with the legend of King Arthur. Think about the magical world of Avalon, the land that is surrounded by mist. Only if you know where to find it, thus if you now the path, you can get there. I gather there’s something similar going on with Valinor, or Tol Eressea if you like.

This is speculation on my part, but it is not unlikely. For we know that Tolkien wanted to created a mythology for his country ( even the legend of King Arthur, though know as very English, is originally French ) and such a mythology as the Legend of King Arthur could very well have been a great source of inspiration for the Professor.

I hope this helps you a bit, Etharius.

Cheers mates!

Aethelwine.