[The Saucepan Man]

Originally Posted by Bêthberry

I suggest, however, the possibility that it is valuable for the reader to have this experience of 'missing aspects' about the character at first. It could be that Tolkien expects his readers to learn actively his 'theme' of mercy and pity.

Good point, although it is expecting much of the reader, particularly the young reader (as I was when I first read the book). Then again, it did not impair my enjoyment. Indeed, the book struck a chord with me such that I read the book again, not just once but (unusually for me) many times, allowing me in time to come to appreciate the fullness and complexity of Boromir as a character (not to mention his father).

Originally Posted by Bêthberry

I think it is because of the elves' lack of interest in other races and their nostagia for their own past; these features tinge them with a wistful blemish on the face of their beauty, despite, I hate to say it, Tolkien's words that Lorien was without blemish. Something in me makes me cautious about a people who seem to want to preserve things unchanged.

To a degree, this is a trait of Elves generally. The comments of both Gildor and Lindir convey this impression, although I agree that is particularly prevalent in Lorien. Again, it is something that it is easy to miss on first reading the book, when Lothlorien might simply provide a beautiful setting for the Fellowship's respite and the characters' interaction with Galadriel. Tolkien's writing most certainly rewards the reader who is disposed to approach it in a more thoughtful manner.