in helping me with an answer! However, I realize that, as is the case
with some issues in Tolkien's writings, there is enough of an argument here to
have ammunition for the next 60 years. I never cease to be impressed with the
fact that Tolkien presents enough dilemmas in his work to keep exquisitely
intelligent, persceptive, learned, logical, and STUBBORN people debating and
discussing non-stop since his works were first published.
What also amazes me is how many can present sound, logical, insightful
arguments for both sides of many dilemmas. And this one is no exception.
While many have presented convincing arguments both ways I find it really hard
to decipher which is the correct answer. Which says to me that there may not be
one. I haven't read enough of these to determine even the more popular opinion
either. It seems that there is no solace either in reviewing Tolkien's letters
as they can be interpreted differently and seem to contradict other writings of
his (knew that already). So, I'll just study these responses and try and
understand for myself.
Thank you all again--and I'm so glad you all had so much
fun!
"...and that first hour in which he shone, the white glimmer of a silver dawn..." "And the bright stars shone as silver fires." "...as a white cloud exceeding swift beneath the moon, as a star...a pale flame on the wings of a storm."
"Red as blood shone their swords."
