West of the Moon
A Tolkien Fanfiction Archive
Reviews for The Hands that Heal:
| Name: Birch Tree | Date: 2004-09-25 06:46 |
| Email: birchtree@freeweb.org | |
| I read this story some time ago and although I didn't review, I loved it so much that I printed it out and I have read it again and again since. Actually, this is one of those stories that the more I read, the more I like. First of all, I find absolutely perfect the atmosphere of coziness and melancholia at the same time that you depicted at Crickhollow: Merry seems to withdraw into it like into a protective womb. The spring rain outside like tears makes it even more effective. Merry's and Pippin's reaction of almost furious merriment and energy is a very fitting behaviour as an initial reaction to re-adjust to their lives in the Shire. I also appreciated very much your mentioning of Theoden. Personally, I have always thought that their problems after the Quest were not only a trauma for the horrors and sufferings that they had experienced, but also a longing for things -also good ones- that happened or should have happened in a different way. Merry's nightmare about Theoden explains it all greatly. Your portrayal of the two hobbits is absolutely, wonderfully in character, with for example Merry needing some time alone to think and Pippin needing to discharge his energy outdoors. You managed to catch the true sense of friendship between the two of them, without any excessive sweetness or softness (the night they spend together awake until dawn is absolutely perfect). Finally, the bright and positive ending, with summer blooming outside -and inside the characters- is a true jewel. Well, this is the longest review I have ever written...I don't know what possessed me :) | |
| Name: Pearl Took | Date: 2004-06-29 14:14 |
| Email: radicalmomssr@yahoo.com | |
| Another wonderful story. I love that they are each so busy helping each other neither one realizes he is being helped. That is so realistic. These two friends are indeed each other's salvation. | |