in this scene with Boromir as well, in particular in Faramir's being able to
resist the temptation of the Ring; but also in the way in which Faramir very
obliquely approaches the whole matter, gets to the heart of it, and wins
Frodo's full trust -- very much in contrast to Boromir's approach to Frodo,
where Frodo sees straight through him and distrusts him immediately.
Faramir's words "I do not love the sword for its brightness, nor the warrior
for his strength" are also clearly meant to contrast him with his
brother. Faramir is also being contrasted with his father, Denethor --
another skilled interrogater. Much of Faramir's interrogation of Frodo is
paralleled in Denethor's interrogation, first, of Pippin and, then, of Faramir
himself. There is a lot going on in this highly complex scene which
abundantly repays any attention given
it.
All that is gold does not glitter,
Not all those who wander are lost;
The old that is strong does not wither,
Deep roots are not reached by the frost.
From the ashes a fire shall be woken,
A light from the shadows shall spring;
Renewed shall be blade that was broken,
The crownless again shall be king.
