The Prancing Pony Podcast - Episode 367: "Hard to Say I’m Sorry"

Overview In episode 367 of The Prancing Pony Podcast, hosts Alan Sisto and Sara delve deep into the intricate relationship between Aragorn and Arwen as depicted in J.R.R. Tolkien’s appendices of The Lord of the Rings. Titled "Hard to Say I’m Sorry," this episode navigates through themes of fate, free will, and the profound sacrifices made by key characters within the Middle-earth legendarium. Through detailed analysis and engaging discussion, Alan and Sara illuminate the depth of Tolkien’s world-building, shedding light on aspects that often remain overlooked by casual readers.

1. Introduction to Aragorn and Arwen's Tale

Reading the Tale The episode commences with Alan reading a passage from Appendix A, focusing on the reunion and eventual union of Aragorn and Arwen. This excerpt sets the stage for a comprehensive exploration of their relationship:

[10:37] Alan Sisto: "He that would be Aragorn did not know it, but Arwen Evenstar was also there, dwelling again for a time with the kin of her mother..."

Initial Reflections Sara introduces herself with a creative flair, aligning with the podcast’s Tolkien-centric ambiance:

[02:24] Sara: "I'm Sara, the shield maiden of Rohan, and I'm here with the man of the west who never walks barefoot in the grass, Alan Sisto."

2. Themes of Fate and Free Will

Fateful Choices A significant portion of the discussion revolves around the interplay between fate and free will in Aragorn and Arwen's story. The hosts dissect how Tolkien masterfully balances these themes, particularly through Arwen's pivotal choice:

[22:20] Sara: "Yes. The fate has to be accepted. The fate has to be chosen. In that sense, it is a little bit different to the moment of Beren and Luthien meeting, because Arwen has, as you say, this choice that must be made between being mortal or being of elf kind."

Determined Paths Alan further elaborates on Aragorn's role within this framework, emphasizing his proactive decisions amidst predetermined destinies:

[31:05] Alan Sisto: "What we're seeing here, I don't want to. I'm not blaming Gilrain for feeling the way she is, but we're definitely seeing a hope versus despair moment."

3. Arwen's Choice and Agency

Empowered Decisions The podcast underscores Arwen's agency in choosing mortality for love, contrasting it with other Tolkien characters who often have their fates entwined with prophecy and destiny:

[20:52] Sara: "She sets eyes on him and her doom is appointed in that moment. Just as it was with Luthien when Beren calls Tinuviel, Tinuviel, and she turns around and goes, ooh."

Comparative Analysis Alan and Sara compare Arwen’s choice to that of Miriel and Denethor, highlighting the nuances of agency and sacrifice:

[93:00] Sara: "That is a really tough question. And my head just exploded."

[93:05] Alan Sisto: "Yeah. I think you’re right. It’s probably way more to do with the fact that it’s not that her boo isn’t there."

Sara draws parallels between Arwen and other characters, reinforcing her significance beyond superficial roles:

[80:56] Sara: "Yes, because otherwise it's easy to make that judgment, actually, that Arwen is simply stays at home sewing banners."

4. Changes from Drafts to Published Version

Editorial Shifts The hosts explore how Tolkien’s drafts evolved, particularly focusing on the portrayal of Arwen and the depth added to her character in published works:

[58:59] Alan Sisto: "We read earlier that her choice was made and her doom appointed when they were walking together before they even plighted their troth."

Enhanced Characterization Discussion highlights the transformation from draft versions where Arwen's agency was limited to the published narrative where she emerges as a pivotal figure:

[60:48] Sara: "Quite a change. It is definitely quite a change. I mean, it suggests that he has the authority to say, sorry, Arwen, I know you’ve chosen, but I’m not going to allow it."

5. Comparisons to Other Tolkien Characters

Isildur and Miriel Alan and Sara draw meaningful comparisons between Aragorn and figures like Isildur and Miriel, examining themes of sacrifice and leadership:

[62:05] Sara: "Yesildur."

[63:00] Sara: "And here I think we find another parallel between Aragorn and Faramir. Faramir is another one who has no desire for the Ring."

Faramir vs. Boromir The discussion extends to contrasting Aragorn with Boromir and Faramir, emphasizing wisdom over valor:

[65:37] Sara: "And Faramir is a greater man than Boromir."

[65:49] Alan Sisto: "No. They have to, you know, just in the same general vicinity."

6. Significance of Foresight and Hope

Arwen’s Insight A recurring theme is Arwen’s foresight and how it shapes Aragorn’s actions, underpinning critical victories such as the Battle of Pelennor:

[77:44] Alan Sisto: "That is glorious. What a great summary that is."

[79:11] Sara: "No. It was Arwen whose foresight actually warned him about what was to happen on the sea Peril."

Impact on Middle-earth The hosts discuss how these elements of hope and foresight not only influence individual characters but also the broader narrative of Middle-earth’s fate:

[83:19] Alan Sisto: "Paying all this money for Liv Tyler and all she does is show up in the last scene."

7. Conclusion: The Weight of Sacrifice

Final Reflections As the episode draws to a close, Alan and Sara reflect on the profound sacrifices made by Arwen and Aragorn, encapsulating the essence of their relationship and its impact on the fate of Middle-earth:

[105:20] Sara: "Yes. Because it’s all about empowering Sam and making Sam more important because he’s the one who turns them around."

[110:42] Alan Sisto: "It is a hobbit centered story. Has to be right."

Emotional Undertones The episode concludes with a poignant acknowledgment of the emotional depth of Aragorn and Arwen’s story, highlighting the enduring legacy of their choices:

[117:31] Sara: "But until next time, however, Farewell, friends."

Notable Quotes

• Alan Sisto [10:37]: "He that would be Aragorn did not know it, but Arwen Evenstar was also there, dwelling again for a time with the kin of her mother."

• Sara [22:20]: "Yes. The fate has to be accepted. The fate has to be chosen."

• Sara [80:56]: "Yes, because otherwise it's easy to make that judgment, actually, that Arwen is simply stays at home sewing banners."

• Alan Sisto [77:44]: "That is glorious. What a great summary that is."

• Sara [62:05]: "Yesildur."

• Alan Sisto [93:00]: "That is a really tough question. And my head just exploded."

• Sara [113:05]: "He’s not just a pretty elf who sews, you know, standards and banners and then turns up."

Final Thoughts

Episode 367 of The Prancing Pony Podcast offers a nuanced and comprehensive examination of Aragorn and Arwen’s narrative arc within Tolkien’s expansive universe. Through meticulous analysis and passionate discussion, Alan and Sara illuminate the depths of character development, thematic complexity, and the enduring relevance of these legendary figures. For enthusiasts seeking a deeper understanding of Middle-earth’s intricate lore, this episode serves as an invaluable resource, bridging gaps between the primary texts and their rich, underlying narratives.