[Anguirel]

davem, I must admit that I've read Giles but not Smith. He sounds like a worthy addition to this select band of lost narrators, though, and I appreciate your points. Your mention of the ending of the Silmarillion proper is also helpful. I know that, personally, it was the sense of loss that attracted me in largest measure to Tolkien; the fading of the Elves and Legolas' sea-longing were one of the most beautiful aspects of LOTR, and I think perhaps the reason I love the Silmarillion and some Unfinished Tales like the Narn still more is that loss pours out of them at every point.

Mithalwen, I must confess that I don't know what you're referring to; I'm hazy on Tolkien's life, though I read a book about the influence of World War One on him...the only bells that faintly ring are the facts of Edith's long separation from Tolkien when they were engaged, but I feel I'm barking up completely the wrong tree-do tell...