Posted: September 30, 1998 at 10:25:12: by Neithan
: Yes. But to add to this let's ask the question what isn't a Maia. Meaning what characteristics don't they have. Obviously Maia range in power from being almost Valar-like (Eonwe) to being almost elven like in power (Radagast). They seem to have fear (a characteristic Tom doesn't have). They seem to understand the Valar, Maia relationship, something Tom doesn't. But the most important Tom question, which leads me to believe Tolkien is hiding the truth and really knows who Tom is, is the question WHY AT THE END OF THE STORY WHY IS TOM SO IMPORTANT TO GANDALF? HE SAYS HE'LL HAVE THE GREATEST TALK IN ALL HIS TIME (AND THAT'S SAYING A LOT AT GANDALF'S AGE).: Jon Accepting Martin's view as valid- which it is- Tom would be superior in power an knowledge of Middle-earth even to Mithrandir. Leaving Endor, Mithrandir would probably like to soak up as much knowledge as he can bring back to Aman. If for nothing else then to be able to make a full report to his superiors, or to gain a different perspective on the struggle- one connected to the earth, flowers and trees.
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