Reviewer:Molly Littlefoot Date:10/14/04
Nicely done. A very good look at what women have to give up for war.
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[2] In the Caverns by:Alon
Reviewer:Denise Date:01/17/07
Thanks for the SSP on HA, Alon. I don't think I had seen this before, and you did a very realistic portrait of Rohirric women, IMHO. I have always imagined them to be strong, tough, practical folk - like the pioneering women of the American West. Never wanting war or bloodshed, but raising strong children with pride and unflinchingly facing the pain of sending them off to battle.
As a mother myself, I thought you showed the particular bond between mother and child just beautifully. I loved how you had her sing and tell stories for comfort (perhaps for herself as much as her little one), the subtle way you showed the stress on the younger children by her daughter's desire to be held, and the ending: Nay, I am a woman of Rohan and I do not weep.
Thoughtful, poignant and very moving. Thanks for giving some self-respect back the Rohirric women of TTT!
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[3] In the Caverns by:Alon
Reviewer:Imhiriel Date:01/19/07
Thank you for linking this on HA! An incredibly moving vignette.
The little details - the suddenly too small clothes, the start of a beard - give it such a stark reality. And together with the simple, unadorned statement, "I have buried my father, my brothers and my husband.", and evoke a powerful picture of this woman representative of women all over the ages in a similar situation.
I loved the ending, with its line bringig the story full circle and enforcing the woman's declaration.
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[4] In the Caverns by:Alon
Reviewer:writeoutloud90 Date:08/21/11
Hi,
I just wanted to let you know I have been searching high and low for a story that captures the feelings I imagine the people of Rohan must have felt when the Westfold was burning and they were fleeing/fighting at Helm's Deep. This story perfectly shows all the complexities I have imagined, but wished to see in a story (and hadn't been able to find). The perspective of the mother is spot on. I like the fact that you never name her, it makes her seem like she is embodying all of the mothers of Rohan rather than just one character. I do wish you had pushed her vision a bit, maybe given us what the other sounds/sights/smells around her were. You do it at some points but I would have liked more. Over all a REALLY well written story!!
Thank you!
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