The Nightmare World of Tolkien

[Lalwendë]

Originally Posted by Boromir88

And I never really noticed that quote before, so that makes us even.

I think what makes it so effective is the description and using comparisons we as readers are aware of:

1. Frodo waited, like a bird at the approach of a snake, unable to move....what a great simile here, and it's effective because it's something we all can experience and connect with. Which makes it all the more terrifying.

2. A careful use of words...'sweeping the shadows' and 'dead silence.' Those can also unnerve you. It's not in the sense that gets to jump out of your seat. But it's more sublte, which makes it an unsettling type of fear.

3. the dark head helmed and crowned with fear...that says it all right there, I mean a helm crowned with fear, just picture that one.

Nice example Lal, didn't notice that before.

The bird/snake thing is a good image I'd not thought about. That reminds me of The Jungle Book, where Mowgli is held hypnotized by Kaa the Python before he strikes (I'm sure that film is why so many kids grow up afraid of snakes!); and reminiscent of those nightmares where a madman is coming at you with an axe but you just can't run away!

And those unseen eyes, seeing everything.

Also, the fact that a whole army can halt and be utterly silent, and that this happens in what's called his valley, and he is troubled. Surely the word troubled should apply to Frodo here? But no, the Witch King, like a sinewy old cat, has sensed someone or something in his territory.