Comment on Linguistics

<- View Parent
interdimensionalmeme@lemmy.ml ⁨5⁩ ⁨months⁩ ago

This text is a poem in Sindarin, one of the languages created by J.R.R. Tolkien for his Middle-earth legendarium. It is a hymn to Varda (Elbereth), a revered figure among the Elves. Here’s a translation and analysis:

Translation:

A Elbereth Gilthoniel, (Oh Elbereth Star-kindler,)

silivren penna míriel (white-glittering, slanting down sparkling like jewels)

o menel aglar elenath! (from heaven the glory of the star-host!)

Na-chaered palan-díriel (To-remote distance far-having gazed)

o galadhremmin ennorath, (from tree-woven Middle-earth,)

Fanuilos, le linnathon (Fanuilos [Ever-white], to thee I will chant)

nef aear, sí nef aearon! (on this side of the ocean, here on this side of the Great Ocean!)

Analysis:

Elbereth Gilthoniel: Elbereth is another name for Varda, the Queen of the Stars, one of the Valar. Gilthoniel means "Star-kindler."
silivren penna míriel: Describes the shining and glittering quality of the stars.
o menel aglar elenath: Refers to the glory of the star-host (elenath) in the heavens (menel).
Na-chaered palan-díriel: Indicates gazing into the remote distance.
o galadhremmin ennorath: Mentions Middle-earth (Ennorath) being tree-woven.
Fanuilos, le linnathon: Pledges to sing to Fanuilos (another name for Elbereth) forever.
nef aear, sí nef aearon: A vow made on this side of the ocean (referring to the Great Ocean that separates Middle-earth from the Undying Lands).

The poem reflects the deep reverence and love the Elves have for Elbereth, highlighting her connection to the stars and the distant heavens.

source
Sort:hotnewtop