To have a ray of hope drowned in darkness is torture for the soul. It creates a hollow in one`s chest that burns without fire. A crater of grief expanding from within, drowning all possibility of joy and hope. A cloud of misery encroaching on every thought in our minds. It drains the mind while simultaneously draining the body of energy.

Two lovers, two souls, two different perspectives. Love may bind them as strong as it will, and keep them together forever, but their own views on a certain situation may influence the survival of the same.

What would you do, if you were to choose between the “right” thing and your heart`s desire? If you follow your heart, would you consider that decision a selfish one? Would you be selfish in love or would you suffer for a just cause?

Leaving home is a torturous ordeal. Leaving behind everything known for an unknown residence, if only temporary, imprints heavily on a person`s heart. An uncertain fate. However, there not being any other alternative, one must do what one can to go on.

Frodo and Sam found a place to rest for a while before continuing on their journey. We see Frodo resting his eyes in the sun. Since his journey will lead him through sunless paths, poisonous fumes, ash and darkness, a bit of sun will do him good. Sam stands on the lookout for anything that might be stirring or coming to disrupt his friend`s rest.

Good vs. bad. Positive against negative. However you describe it, there are always two polar opposites. As they exist on a global scale, so do they also reside within us. To know what is right and what is wrong is sometimes not that visible or palpable. Sometimes it is a matter of perspective, of self-reflection and decision.

All types of relationships go through the ebb and flow. There is a constant stream of energy between two people. Depending on the phases of life that two people find themselves in at any point in time, the energy will always reflect on the relationship. Sometimes it will be rewarding, supportive and kind, and other times it may only be a strain on both participants.

When it becomes difficult for any reason, people tend to forfeit, not willing to try and sustain it. The easiest way to deal with any kind of unpleasant situation is to simply extrapolate oneself from it. 

I am ready Gamling. Bring my horse.

Théoden

A strong confident King, clothing himself in his kingly garment, preparing to take his people out of harm’s way and onto the path to Helm`s Deep. He seems assured in his decision, confident in this course of action. 

Backed into a corner – it must be a terrible feeling to endure. Knowing your own strength, and yet afraid of losing it all. Anger is the first form of response that comes naturally, defend what is left. Strike back as quickly and ruthlessly as possible to assert your position.

Nothing else matters now than saving face and reestablishing the order of power. But for all the cunning, fear is what drives him. His eyes seek solutions, his pacing indicates self-doubt and his hands show us how nervous and fearful he really is – Saruman. 

They had no warning. They were unarmed. Now the Wild Men are moving through the Westfold, burning as they go. Rick, cot and tree.

Éowyn