After the adventure at the Mountain
is concluded, and Bilbo returns to Rivendell, the elves wake him from sleep
with their singing – and their words are intriguing. In truth, the burning stars could be flaming
hells if the elves could see them up close – and the moon would be a dusty
stone, rather than a flower. Yet seen
from a distance, the stars will not burn those who look upon them, and the moon
is bright and smooth and luxurious. So
it may be with tales of adventure; to come near to such peril could be
overwhelming and frightening, but to hear the tales, from the distance of
someone’s imagination, or after the passing of years – that could be a joy and
a wonder.
Yet we may also hope that there are
some sights, and some adventures, that are as beautiful and delightful in
intimacy and nearness as when seen across some vast and unbridgeable distance.
“But our back is to legends and we
are coming home…” The story of The Hobbit is coming to a close.
Image: AnnaLee Pauls
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