Evenstar

Howard Shore's 'Evenstar' is a hauntingly beautiful piece that captures the ethereal and melancholic essence of the character Arwen from J.R.R. Tolkien's 'The Lord of the Rings'. The song is sung in Sindarin, one of the Elvish languages created by Tolkien, which adds a layer of mystique and otherworldliness to the composition. The lyrics, though sparse, are deeply evocative and laden with meaning.

The soloist begins with the line 'Ú i vethed nâ i onnad,' which translates to 'The end is not the beginning.' This phrase sets the tone for the song, suggesting a cyclical nature of life and fate, a common theme in Tolkien's works. The following line, 'Si boe ú-dhanna,' means 'It is necessary to go,' indicating a sense of inevitability and destiny. The chorus echoes these sentiments, reinforcing the idea that some paths are unavoidable.

In the second part of the song, the soloist repeatedly sings 'Estelio han, estelio veleth,' which translates to 'Trust this, trust love.' This plea for trust and faith in love is poignant, especially considering Arwen's story. She chooses a mortal life with Aragorn over the immortal life of an Elf, a decision driven by profound love and trust. The chorus, singing 'Teliach nad, estelio han,' or 'You have come far, trust this,' underscores the journey and the importance of faith in the face of uncertainty.

'Evenstar' is not just a song but a narrative encapsulated in music. It speaks to themes of love, destiny, and the eternal struggle between choice and fate. Shore's composition, combined with the Elvish lyrics, creates a timeless piece that resonates with the listener on a deeply emotional level.