Silmarillion Stories - E03 - The Beginning of Days

Jan 30, 2023

David and John explore the captivating origins of light and the cosmic conflict in Arda. They thoughtfully critique the leadership of Manwë, while unraveling the deep lore surrounding the creation of the Two Trees. The hosts dive into themes of grief, transformation, and the intertwining fates of mortals and immortals. They also reflect on the complex relationships in Tolkien's world, setting the stage for profound discussions on free will and destiny. Engaging listener feedback adds an interactive element to their immersive storytelling.

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ANECDOTE

Podcast Guests

The Lorehounds guested on the podcast "That's What I'm Talking About".
They also plan to invite Mary Clay and Maester Anthony to their own podcast.

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INSIGHT

Chapter Overview

"Of the Beginning of Days" is shorter than expected but rich with lore and events.
It marks the start of the main narrative within the Silmarillion.

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Origins of the Silmarils

01:42 • 5min

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Illuminating Arda: Light and Darkness

07:03 • 15min

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The Enchantment of the Two Trees

22:21 • 16min

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Exploring Elven Mortality and the Depths of Tolkien

38:18 • 4min

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Exploring Tolkien's Early Lore

42:03 • 17min

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Appreciation and Upcoming Collaborations

59:06 • 2min

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Upcoming Episodes and Exciting Topics in Podcasting

01:01:17 • 2min

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Upcoming Episodes and New Literary Adventures

A Clash of Kings picks up where A Game of Thrones left off, with the Seven Kingdoms of Westeros in the midst of a bloody civil war. Joffrey Lannister sits on the Iron Throne, but his claim is contested by Stannis and Renly Baratheon. Meanwhile, Robb Stark has declared himself King in the North, and across the narrow sea, Daenerys Targaryen seeks to reclaim her birthright. The novel follows multiple plotlines, including the Night's Watch's expedition beyond the Wall, Theon Greyjoy's betrayal of the Starks, and Tyrion Lannister's efforts to defend King's Landing against Stannis's army. The book is known for its complex characters, intricate plotting, and the escalating conflicts that shape the world of Westeros.

A Wizard of Earthsea

Ursula K. Le Guin

The novel is a bildungsroman that explores Ged's process of learning to cope with power and come to terms with death. It is set in the fictional archipelago of Earthsea, where magic is based on a delicate balance maintained by wizards. Ged's story involves his education at a school of wizardry, his struggles with a shadow he inadvertently summons, and his journey to confront and merge with this shadow. The book is renowned for its philosophical themes, including the power of names and the balance of the universe, and is part of the six-volume Earthsea Cycle.

The Nature of Middle-Earth

J.R.R Tolkien

The Nature of Middle-earth is a collection of essays and writings by J.R. R. Tolkien, published posthumously by his son Christopher Tolkien. It offers further insights into Tolkien's creation of Middle-earth, exploring various aspects of his mythology and world-building. The book delves into Tolkien's linguistic creations, his exploration of different cultures and mythologies, and his philosophical reflections on the nature of creation and existence. The essays provide a deeper understanding of Tolkien's creative process and his vision for Middle-earth. The book is a valuable resource for Tolkien scholars and fans alike, offering a glimpse into the mind of one of the greatest fantasy authors of all time.

The Silmarillion

J. R. R. Tolkien

The Silmarillion is a comprehensive narrative that details the creation of Tolkien's universe, Eä, and the history of the First Age. It includes the legend of the Silmarils, jewels crafted by Fëanor that contain the essence of the Two Trees of Valinor. The book covers the creation of the world, the history of the Elves and Men, the wars against Morgoth, and the legendary love story of Beren and Lúthien. Edited and published posthumously by Christopher Tolkien with the assistance of Guy Gavriel Kay, it is a foundational work that underpins the stories of 'The Hobbit' and 'The Lord of the Rings'.

Leaf by Niggle

J. R. R. Tolkien

Written in 1938-39 and first published in the 'Dublin Review' in January 1945, 'Leaf by Niggle' is an allegorical tale that reflects Tolkien's own creative process and life. The story follows Niggle, a painter who is obsessed with painting a perfect tree but is constantly interrupted by his obligations. When Niggle is forced to take a journey, he finds himself in a bureaucratic purgatory and eventually discovers his tree in a more perfect form in an afterlife. The narrative is a profound exploration of divine creation, human sub-creation, and the journey of life and death.

David and John discuss Of the Beginning of Days, Tolkien’s mythology on the beginning of light and time in Arda. After discussing the war with Melkor and the marring of Middle-earth, David and John begin their case against the leadership of Manwë. Finally, they answer listener feedback.

Contact Us

Deep lore questions, comments and/or thoughts to share? Send us an email at lotr@thelorehounds.com Early and ad-free versions of all our podcasts are available on our Patreon at: https://www.patreon.com/thelorehounds

Find us on Twitter @thelorehounds, on Twitch at twitch.tv/thelorehounds, or join us for further discussion of all things Tolkien over on our Discord Server.

Silmarillion Stories Reading Schedule

November 2022 - Ainulindalë
December 2022 - Valaquenta
January 2023 - Of the Beginning of Days February 2023 - Of Aule and Yavanna
March 2023 - Of the Coming of Elves and the Captivity of Melkor
April 2023 - Of Thingol and Melian
May 2023 - Of Eldamar and the Princes of the Edalië
June 2023 - Of Fëanor and the Unchaining of Melkor

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