New Silm. 2002 - The Barrow-Downs Discussion Forum

Aiwendil · 12-29-2001, 11:50 AM

On the several points we're considering:

1. I'm not sure sending the whole list of name changes to Elfling is a great idea; I don't know if anyone here is on the list, but I am, and it's been a bit busy of late, with a lot of new members apparently attracted by the glimpses of Elvish in the movie. We might get some worthwhile comments, though. I'm all for sending it privately to whomever might be knowledgeable enough to help. I can't speak for anyone else here, but I'm certainly no expert; it might be unwise to rely on our judgement alone.

But the question of the names of Gondolin is not one easily answered, with or without a good understanding of Elvish etymology. The problem is essentially this: we have about nine names, each equally valid, for a city that must have seven names. Which do we drop? I'd be interested to see other people's comments on this discussion, as (I think) it has so far only been touched by Jallanite and me. Perhaps I'll start another thread devoted to it.

2. A poll is a good idea. I'd suggest that we clearly lay out all the evidence for both sides, though, along with the poll. And perhaps whichever option wins should then need a written justification according to our principles - this is all to prevent personal preference and aesthetics from playing a larger role than it should.

3. Agreed.

4. Agreed once again.

12-29-2001, 11:50 AM	#6
Aiwendil Late Istar Join Date: Mar 2001 Posts: 2,224	On the several points we're considering: 1. I'm not sure sending the whole list of name changes to Elfling is a great idea; I don't know if anyone here is on the list, but I am, and it's been a bit busy of late, with a lot of new members apparently attracted by the glimpses of Elvish in the movie. We might get some worthwhile comments, though. I'm all for sending it privately to whomever might be knowledgeable enough to help. I can't speak for anyone else here, but I'm certainly no expert; it might be unwise to rely on our judgement alone. But the question of the names of Gondolin is not one easily answered, with or without a good understanding of Elvish etymology. The problem is essentially this: we have about nine names, each equally valid, for a city that must have seven names. Which do we drop? I'd be interested to see other people's comments on this discussion, as (I think) it has so far only been touched by Jallanite and me. Perhaps I'll start another thread devoted to it. 2. A poll is a good idea. I'd suggest that we clearly lay out all the evidence for both sides, though, along with the poll. And perhaps whichever option wins should then need a written justification according to our principles - this is all to prevent personal preference and aesthetics from playing a larger role than it should. 3. Agreed. 4. Agreed once again.