Quote:
|
Originally Posted by The Saucepan Man
Strangely enough, when I re-read this passage recently, I found it rather offensive. Or rather, it suggested a failing in Lindir's nature (and perhaps Elvish nature in general) which I found dislikeable rather than humorous.
|
Actually I've always viewed this exchange as harmless banter between two friends. In light of the knowledge that we have of the true respect that the elves had for Bilbo in Rivendell; it simply seems to me how I would treat a close friend of mine if I wanted to give him a good ribbing. Lindir knew that a good avenue of jest to Bilbo would have been his poetry and song, something that while he took serious, he knew Bilbo wouldn't take personal offense at it.
__________________
“I wish it need not have happened in my time," said Frodo.
"So do I," said Gandalf, "and so do all who live to see such times. But that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.”
|