Aníron (Theme for Aragorn and Arwen)

Howard Shore's 'Aníron (Theme for Aragorn and Arwen)' is a hauntingly beautiful piece that captures the deep, timeless love between Aragorn and Arwen, two central characters from J.R.R. Tolkien's 'The Lord of the Rings'. The lyrics, written in Sindarin, one of Tolkien's Elvish languages, add an ethereal quality to the song, enhancing its emotional depth and connection to the fantasy world of Middle-earth.

The song opens with the line 'O mór henion i dhû', which translates to 'From darkness I understand the night'. This sets a tone of introspection and longing, reflecting the challenges and sacrifices that both Aragorn and Arwen face in their love story. The mention of 'Ely siriar, êl síla' ('The stars are clear, all is calm') evokes a sense of peace and eternal beauty, symbolizing the purity and enduring nature of their love.

The repeated phrase 'Ai! Aníron Undómiel' ('Ah! I desire Evenstar') directly references Arwen, who is often called Undómiel, or Evenstar, due to her unparalleled beauty and grace. This line underscores Aragorn's deep yearning and admiration for Arwen. The plea 'Tiro! Êl eria e mór' ('Look! A star rises out of the darkness') signifies hope and the promise of a brighter future, despite the surrounding darkness. The final lines, 'I 'lîr en êl luitha 'uren' ('The song of the star enchants my heart'), encapsulate the enchanting and transformative power of their love.

Howard Shore's composition, combined with the poetic lyrics, creates a powerful and moving tribute to one of the most iconic love stories in literature. The song not only enhances the emotional landscape of 'The Lord of the Rings' but also resonates with listeners on a deeply personal level, reminding us of the enduring power of love and hope in the face of adversity.