Track-by-Track: Soundtrack Discussion and Analysis

[dancing spawn of ungoliant]

First of all, thank you, Enca, this has been a huge commitment for you!

I think this is the most wonderful and emotional closing track of the three films. I like the way that The Grey Havens and Into the West are related by using a same theme.

Also, it's so beautiful how the lyrics tell you of a new better land while guitars and a bodhran on the background remind you of the Shire. I've always thought that it's Galadriel, who's singing this song to Frodo and I think Annie Lennox's voice is perfect for this. Did you know that since the third movie's title was the Return of the King, PJ and his crew considered using a male voice to sing the end title? Well, I'm glad that they chose Lennox instead.

Here's again something that Mr. Shore said in an interview:

Tell me about your idea to add on that one minute finale to 'Into the West', after Annie's vocal is finished.
I just wanted to write an ending to the trilogy, a piece you hadn't heard. In a way it's an ending, but it's also a new beginning. There's connection in both pieces to Ring mythology. I had to write a statement that this is the end of the trilogy. It ends in reflection really, the end of the movie as a parting. Sam stays in The Shire and has a family, it's a rebirth.

I first didn't like the little outro there, but now I think that it's something that might be needed. I don't see it as much as a new beginning or a rebirth as a gentle nudge to tell us that 'seriously guys, this is the end'.

During this track, I clearly see in my mind how the ship sails towards Undying Lands and when that outro begins, it feels like it's finally time to part from Frodo. I see the ship sailing away while I'm left behind because that's when they reach Valinor, and I can't go there.

Originally Posted by Lathriel

I remember when Annie Lennox sand this song at the oscars, it was definitly the best song from all the other ones I heard at the ceremonies that year.

I remember that, too. I think Lennox's performance didn't go so well there, but it was definitely the best song and worthy of an Oscar.