...there is much else that may be told.
"O! What are you doing," is the first line of a poem found within the chapter "A Short Rest" of The Hobbit. It is sung by the Elves of Rivendell as the Company crossed the bridge into Rivendell. This poem type is seen once again in the chapter "The Last Stage" called The dragon is withered.
This poem reflects the joy of the Elven-folk as they seemed not to have a care for the dangers of the world. It was described as "a burst of song like laughter in the trees". "The valley" refers to Rivendell, their home. After the Elves finished this poem they moved on to another ridiculous song.
Poem excerpt
O! What are you doing,
And where are you going?
Your ponies need shoeing!
The river is flowing!
O! tra-la-la-lally
here down in the valley!
O! What are you seeking,
And where are you making?
The faggots are reeking,
The bannocks are baking!
O! tril-lil-lil-lolly
the valley is jolly,
ha! ha!
See also
References