balrogs and wings debate

[Mithadan]

Goldberry, I think that no offense was intended. The Balrog wings issue, together with the nature of Tom Bombadil, is among the most unsettled and, for reasons beyond me, inflammatory issues arising from LoTR. Everyone has VERY strong opinions and everone has reasons for holding their opinions ranging from strict construction of the words JRRT used to analysis in terms of simile/metaphor.

I note with approval that most of the "old hands", having thoroughly beaten this one into the ground, are standing aside to let our newer members reach their own conclusions and advance their own theories. Maybe someone will come up with the Ultimate Balrog Theory (and thus be awarded the honor of our Fourth Poster of the Week).