Galadriel's messages

From Tolkien Gateway
This article describes a concept which is mentioned in J.R.R. Tolkien's works, but was never given a definite name.

Galadriel's messages were messages given by Galadriel to Gandalf the White during his stay in Lothlórien after his battle with the Balrog. She bade him deliver them to Aragorn, Legolas, and Gimli, a task Gandalf accomplished when he met them at last in Fangorn Forest.[1] Aragorn's message was prophetic in nature, referring to the meeting of the Grey Company and his taking of the Paths of the Dead. Legolas's message would prove to be a warning, for when he was at Pelargir he heard the cry of the gulls, which awakened the Sea-longing dormant in the hearts of Elves.[2] Gimli's message was one of encouragement, for he bore three locks of Galadriel's hair.[3]

Aragorn

Where now are the Dúnedain, Elessar, Elessar?
Why do thy kinsfolk wander afar?
Near is the hour when the Lost should come forth,
And the Grey Company ride from the North.
But dark is the path appointed for thee:
The Dead watch the road that leads to the Sea.

Legolas

Legolas Greenleaf long under tree
In joy thou hast lived. Beware of the Sea!
If thou hearest the cry of the gull on the shore,
Thy heart shall then rest in the forest no more.

Gimli

Lock-bearer, wherever thou goest my thought goes with thee.
But have a care to lay thine axe to the right tree!"

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