The Prancing Pony Podcast: Episode 368 – If You Leave Me Now

Release Date: April 20, 2025

Introduction

In episode 368 of The Prancing Pony Podcast, hosts Alan Sisto and Sara Marchese delve deep into the poignant tale of Aragorn and Arwen as narrated in J.R.R. Tolkien's Appendix A. This episode marks a significant exploration of themes such as mortality, love, and loss within the Middle-earth legendarium. Through insightful discussions and thoughtful analysis, Alan and Sara unravel the complexities of Aragorn and Arwen's farewell, drawing parallels with other notable narratives in Tolkien's works.

Revisiting the War of the Rohirrim Film Adaptation

Before immersing themselves in the heart-wrenching story of Aragorn and Arwen, Alan and Sara revisit the recently released War of the Rohirrim film. They critique its adaptation choices, particularly the focus on Hera, a character whose narrative was scarcely developed in Tolkien's original texts.

Sara's Defense of Tolkien’s Portrayal of Women: Sara passionately counters longstanding criticisms that label Tolkien as a misogynist. She emphasizes that Tolkien's female characters, though fewer in number, are profoundly impactful and well-crafted.

Sara [02:18]: "I'm not saying anything. Folks, pull up a bench in the common room and join us."

Sara [06:17]: "Galadriel is older than Elrond, has seen a heck of a lot more... I think we can. I think we should put that to bed, frankly."

Discussion on Female Characters: The hosts highlight exemplary female figures like Eowyn, Galadriel, and Olwen, underscoring their strength, agency, and complexity.

Sara [07:42]: "Well written female character is one that is well rounded, three dimensional, actually has agency... sometimes they go through all sorts of terrible things."

This segment dismantles the misconception that Tolkien sidelined women, showcasing their integral roles and profound influence within his narratives.

Exploring Aragorn and Arwen’s Farewell

Transitioning to the core of the episode, Alan and Sara embark on an in-depth discussion of Aragorn and Arwen’s final moments together, as depicted in Appendix A. They begin by reading a significant excerpt that encapsulates the bittersweet parting of these two beloved characters.

Reading the Passage: Sara reads the passage from Appendix A that details Aragorn's farewell to Arwen, highlighting the gravity and sorrow embedded in their conversation.

Sara [27:30]: "When the Great Ring was unmade and the three were shorn of their power then Elrond grew weary at last and forsook Middle Earth never to return."

Analysis of Mortality and Grief: The discussion delves into the themes of mortality, the inevitability of death, and the profound grief experienced by both Aragorn and Arwen. They explore why Aragorn chooses to depart willingly rather than succumb to senility, emphasizing his desire to preserve his dignity and the well-being of his lineage.

Alan [31:42]: "Why wouldn't he choose to leave?"

Sara [34:07]: "She was overborne by her grief."

Aragorn’s Decision: Alan contemplates Aragorn's decision to leave while still strong, pondering whether Elrond could have chosen mortality. They conclude that Aragorn's extended lifespan, though significantly longer than that of ordinary men, still culminates in the same inevitable end.

Alan [36:41]: "Or maybe even until Arwen's death."

Sara [37:06]: "She has to abide the doom of men."

Parallels with Other Tolkien Narratives

The hosts draw insightful parallels between Aragorn and Arwen's story and other narratives within Tolkien’s works, notably the tales of Luthien and Beren, and Finrod and Andreth.

Comparing to Luthien and Beren: Sara notes the difference in Arwen's experience compared to Luthien's acceptance of mortality, emphasizing the unique sorrow Arwen endures.

Sara [55:01]: "Arwen just doesn't know what to do with it."

Finrod and Andreth: Alan and Sara touch upon Finrod's discussions with Andreth about mortality, highlighting the differing perceptions and acceptance of death between elves and men.

Sara [95:08]: "Androth's bitter complaint that Iluvatar had forsaken the Etani and that the Valar had ignored them."

Themes of Choice and the Human Condition

A central theme of the episode is the profound exploration of choice, particularly in the face of inevitable mortality. The conversation emphasizes Aragorn's acceptance of his fate as a testament to living a life of purpose and honor.

Sara on the Human Condition: Sara reflects on the universality of loss and the human struggle to find comfort in the face of unchangeable sorrow.

Sara [62:04]: "There is sorrow in all endings."

Alan on Acceptance: Alan admires Aragorn's ability to accept his fate, viewing it as a model of strength and wisdom.

Alan [60:43]: "You can't fix it. You just have to live what you got."

Final Reflections and Conclusions

As the episode concludes, Alan and Sara reflect on the lasting impact of Aragorn and Arwen's story. They underscore the narrative's deep resonance with the human experience, encapsulating the inevitability of loss and the beauty of enduring love.

Sara on Arwen’s Legacy: Sara laments the ultimate obscurity Arwen faces, highlighting the transient nature of memory and legacy.

Sara [84:54]: "All the days of her life are utterly forgotten by men that come after."

Alan on Tolkien’s Prose: Alan praises Tolkien's masterful prose, particularly the lines that encapsulate the grandeur and sorrow of Aragorn's legacy.

Alan [90:53]: "It is so glorious... some of the most beautiful prose... buried here in the appendices."

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Sara [06:17]: "Galadriel is older than Elrond, has seen a heck of a lot more... I think we can. I think we should put that to bed, frankly."

• Sara [07:42]: "Well written female character is one that is well rounded, three dimensional, actually has agency... sometimes they go through all sorts of terrible things."

• Sara [27:30]: "When the Great Ring was unmade and the three were shorn of their power then Elrond grew weary at last and forsook Middle Earth never to return."

• Alan [31:42]: "Why wouldn't he choose to leave?"

• Sara [34:07]: "She was overborne by her grief."

• Sara [55:01]: "Arwen just doesn't know what to do with it."

• Sara [95:08]: "Androth's bitter complaint that Iluvatar had forsaken the Etani and that the Valar had ignored them."

• Sara [62:04]: "There is sorrow in all endings."

• Alan [60:43]: "You can't fix it. You just have to live what you got."

• Sara [84:54]: "All the days of her life are utterly forgotten by men that come after."

• Alan [90:53]: "It is so glorious... some of the most beautiful prose... buried here in the appendices."

Conclusion

Episode 368 of The Prancing Pony Podcast offers a heartfelt and intellectually stimulating examination of Aragorn and Arwen’s farewell. Through their nuanced discussions, Alan and Sara illuminate the profound emotional and philosophical underpinnings of Tolkien's work, celebrating the enduring legacy of his characters while addressing complex themes that resonate deeply with listeners.

Whether you're a seasoned Tolkien enthusiast or new to the legendarium, this episode provides a rich tapestry of insights that enhance the understanding and appreciation of Middle-earth's intricate narratives.