The Dior Dilemma

[William Cloud Hicklin]

but Arwen claims that when Aragorn died no ship was left which could take her west, indicating that the Mithlond was already deserted.

It could be read that way, but it also could be interpreted as meaning that although there were still ships, Arwen wouldn't be allowed to board (the actual wording used is "would take" not "could take"). She had given up her ticket, as it were.

The fact that Legolas built his own ship is interesting (where did he learn the craft??) Does this imply that Cirdan was out of business, or does it reflect statements T makes elsewhere that suggest rather strongly that sailing West was the prerogative of the exiled Noldor alone?*

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*Plus Cirdan, acording to the late essay on him: after all, he would have gone after Olwe but for Ulmo's command.