Song Of Durin

The song 'Song Of Durin' by The Tolkien Ensemble is a poetic and evocative tribute to the legendary Dwarven king, Durin, from J.R.R. Tolkien's Middle-earth mythology. The lyrics transport listeners to a time when the world was young and untouched, capturing the essence of Durin's awakening and his profound impact on the world around him. The imagery of a pristine, green world with untarnished mountains and unnamed hills sets the stage for Durin's journey of discovery and creation. His reflection in the Mirrormere, crowned with stars, symbolizes his destined greatness and the eternal legacy he would leave behind.

As the song progresses, it paints a vivid picture of Durin's reign, highlighting the grandeur and splendor of his kingdom. The 'many-pillared halls of stone' and the 'golden roof and silver floor' evoke a sense of awe and majesty. The detailed descriptions of the craftsmanship of Durin's folk, from forging weapons to creating intricate jewelry, emphasize the industrious and artistic nature of the Dwarves. The harmonious life in Durin's kingdom, filled with music and song, reflects a time of prosperity and cultural richness.

However, the song takes a somber turn as it contrasts the past glory with the present desolation. The once vibrant and lively halls of Durin are now shrouded in darkness and silence. The 'forge's fire is ashen-cold' and 'no harp is wrung,' signifying the decline and fall of Durin's kingdom. The haunting image of Durin's tomb in Moria, also known as Khazad-dûm, and the sunken stars in the Mirrormere, serve as poignant reminders of a lost era. Yet, the song ends on a note of hope, with the belief that Durin will one day awaken from his sleep, suggesting a cyclical nature of time and the enduring spirit of the Dwarves.

The 'Song Of Durin' is not just a recounting of history but a reflection on the themes of legacy, loss, and hope. It captures the essence of a bygone era while resonating with the timeless human experience of rise and fall, and the enduring hope for renewal.