Laurië Lassi – Golden Leaves by Esteliel

West of the Moon, East of the Sun

The words West and East are often used in the works of Tolkien. Write a story or poem or create an artwork that uses these words as the central focus, whether as cardinals, regions, or as metaphors.

West of the Moon, East of the Sun

Twice Glorfindel has crossed the sea. Twice he left the Blessed West to go east – once on foot, through ice and never-ending night until at last the first rising of the sun greeted their arrival. A second time by ship, to make what difference he could in the fight that seemed to go on without end.

Once he returned west, his hröa slain, his fëa fleeing into Mandos' embrace.

He goes west a second time now – a last time, or so he hopes. Still, he cannot take his eyes from the shore that slowly gets smaller and smaller to the east, thinking of the one he leaves behind.

Not for long, so he prays, so he knows, and yet his heart feels restless in his chest without the quiet reassurance of his archer's presence.

An arm wraps around his shoulder. He turns and smiles, acknowledging the blessing that does make the journey to Aman by his side. Next to his son, he watches the sun sink into the water far to the west.