The Passing of the Elves (known as The Elvish Lament)

Howard Shore's composition, 'The Passing of the Elves (known as The Elvish Lament),' is a hauntingly beautiful piece that captures the ethereal and sorrowful departure of the Elves from Middle-earth. The lyrics, written in Sindarin, one of the Elvish languages created by J.R.R. Tolkien, evoke a deep sense of loss and nostalgia. The Elves, who have long been the guardians and inhabitants of Middle-earth, are now leaving for the Undying Lands, a place of eternal peace and beauty. This departure signifies the end of an era and the fading of magic and wonder from the world of men.

The song opens with a tribute to Elbereth Gilthoniel, a revered figure in Elvish lore, often associated with the stars and the heavens. The Elves sing of her glory and the light she brings, which has guided them through their long journey. The imagery of stars and light is prevalent throughout the song, symbolizing hope, guidance, and the divine presence that the Elves have always felt. The mention of 'Fanuilos,' meaning 'ever-white,' further emphasizes the purity and eternal nature of Elbereth and the Elves' connection to her.

As the song progresses, the Elves express their sorrow and longing. They reminisce about the beauty of Middle-earth, with its forests and starlit skies, and the joy they once found in their homeland. The repetition of Elbereth's name and the invocation of her presence highlight the Elves' desire for comfort and solace as they face the unknown. The final lines of the song reflect a poignant farewell, as the Elves acknowledge the end of their time in Middle-earth and the beginning of a new journey across the sea. This lament is not just a goodbye to a place but a farewell to an entire way of life, filled with magic, beauty, and ancient wisdom.