Lay of Leithian: Canto Ten

Canto ten follows Beren and Lúthien following his dramatic rescue. They wander a while together, basking in love, with their trusty companion Huan. Eventually they find their way to the outskirts of Doriath but not before being intercepted by Celegorm and Curifun. The brothers were unceremoniously run out of Nargothrand after captives return from Thú's isle telling how a maiden dared what they would not: to rescue Beren and Felagund.

The brothers bore down on the lovers with the intent of killing Beren and kidnapping Lúthien. They were foiled by the bravery of Beren and Huan. But an arrow shot in retreat smote Beren in the chest as he bravely protected Lúthien. Lúthien and Huan are able to save him despite the grievous wound and the Canto ends with Beren leaving Lúthien asleep in Huan's care taking up his quest for the Silmaril.

Alas, my quote from the Lay has nothing to do with the action. Rather I was moved at the very beginning in a stanza that reflects on Felagund:

"The isle in Sirion they left behind;

but there on hill-top might one find

a green grave, a stone set, 

and there lie white bones yet

of Felagund, on Finrod's son -

unless that land is changed and gone,

of foundered in unfathomed seas,

while Felagund laughs beneath the trees

in Valinor, and comes no more

to this grey world of tears and war"

(p. 260, The Lays of Beleriand).

I love the picture of Felagund laughing in the blessed land no longer burdened by a world of tears and war. Reminds of Heaven where God will wipe away every tear and the burdens of this world will fade away. Come, Lord Jesus, I want to be laughing beneath the trees.