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Old 04-21-2003, 07:02 AM   #14
doug*platypus
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Join Date: Dec 2002
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When I read about what the Numenoreans had in their wallets, I was actually a little disappointed. The detailed explanation of how many miles they would march every day likewise was a bit too much for me.

I think that overexplaining is a trait that's all too common in many fantasy and science fiction stories. I like the fact that JRRT was trying to explain to us exactly how these guys worked, but I think the effect is better when it isn't delved into too much. Like lembas and miruvor - we know that they exist, but damned if we know how. We know that the Numenoreans were capable of great feats of strength, but having it broken down into detail doesn't make it any more impressive; probably less so.

But I like the bit where the Orcs drag the Numenoreans out and slay them with their big claws. Grisly.
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