The Runes of the Earth: The Last Chronicles of Thomas Covenant — Book One
Chapter 17: Part One — 11. Hints
by Donaldson, Stephen R.The chapter opens with Linden, Liand, and the Ramen breaking camp and journeying eastward along an escarpment toward a mountain gorge. Liand’s doubts about the Ramen are dispelled when he sees his mustang, Somo, unharmed and ready to travel. Meanwhile, Sahah, an injured Ramen Cord, is left behind with companions to recover, sustained by vitrim and the promise of hurtloam. Anele, the old and maddened man, rejoins the group after wandering off, muttering incoherently, his blindness and confusion hinting at deeper struggles with his fractured mind.
Linden, though wary of Anele’s madness, refrains from probing his mind with her renewed senses, fearing the consequences for both of them. Her recent success with Covenant’s ring has restored her confidence in her abilities, yet her underlying despair over her son Jeremiah remains unresolved. The physical strain of the journey forces her to focus on each step, momentarily shielding her from the weight of her emotional turmoil. As the group navigates the rugged terrain, Liand’s youthful enthusiasm and wonder at the world provide Linden with a fleeting sense of hope.
The company enters a narrow gorge, carefully picking their way through boulders and snowmelt streams. Emerging into sunlight, they traverse an open slope, where Linden’s muscles begin to adjust. The landscape shifts as they descend toward a chaotic field of boulders, but the Ramen redirect their path eastward toward a ridge formed by ancient rockfalls. Linden, weary but determined, refuses Hami’s offer to ride Somo, insisting on walking despite her exhaustion. Her resolve reflects her need to reclaim agency after the vulnerabilities of the previous day.
As they approach the ridge, Linden questions Hami about their destination—the Verge of Wandering—where the Ramen hope to address lingering doubts. Hami reassures her that the path, though rough, is manageable, and Somo could carry her if needed. Linden’s refusal underscores her stubborn self-reliance, even as she grapples with unspoken suspicions about Hami’s honesty. The chapter closes with Linden preparing to face the physical and emotional challenges ahead, her journey mirroring her internal struggle between hope and despair.
FAQs
1. What role does vitrim play in Sahah’s recovery, and why is it significant in this chapter?
Answer:
Vitrim is a sustaining substance that helps Sahah recover from her severe injuries. It reduces her fever and infection, allowing her to sip water and speak intermittently. Its significance lies in its life-preserving properties, which give Sahah a chance to survive until hurtloam—a more potent healing agent—can be brought. This highlights the Ramen’s medical knowledge and the precariousness of Sahah’s condition, reinforcing the urgency of their journey and the stakes of their mission.2. How does Linden’s perception of Anele’s madness influence her decisions regarding him?
Answer:
Linden recognizes Anele’s madness as a dangerous and unstable condition, making her hesitant to probe his mind with her renewed senses. She fears that intruding psychically could further damage his fragile sanity or even overwhelm her, as happened when she previously tried to help Covenant. Her restraint reflects both compassion and self-preservation, as she acknowledges the risks of interacting with his disturbed state while balancing her own emotional vulnerability.3. Analyze the symbolic significance of the landscape (e.g., the gorge, rubble, and Verge of Wandering) in relation to Linden’s journey.
Answer:
The rugged terrain—narrow gorges, treacherous rubble, and the looming Verge of Wandering—mirrors Linden’s internal struggles. Each obstacle (like the physical strain of walking) parallels her emotional and psychological challenges, such as her desperation to find Jeremiah and her fear of failure. The Verge of Wandering, in particular, symbolizes uncertainty and the need for answers, reflecting the Ramen’s (and Linden’s) quest for clarity amid chaos. The landscape thus externalizes the themes of perseverance and existential doubt.4. Why does Linden resist riding Somo despite her physical exhaustion, and what does this reveal about her character?
Answer:
Linden refuses to ride Somo because her previous weakness damaged her self-confidence, and she wants to prove her resilience. This decision underscores her determination to maintain agency, even when struggling. It also reflects her pride and fear of dependency, as she prefers enduring pain over relying too heavily on others—a trait that ties into her broader need to control her fate and protect those she loves.5. How does Liand’s attitude contrast with Linden’s, and what effect does this have on her?
Answer:
Liand embodies wonder and optimism, delighting in newfound percipience and the beauty of the world, while Linden is burdened by despair and urgency. His enthusiasm serves as a counterbalance to her grim focus, offering emotional support and reminding her of the world’s inherent goodness. This contrast subtly reinforces Linden’s hope that “a world which gave birth to such people could never be entirely ruined by Despite,” tempering her darker impulses.
Quotes
1. “He had been reclaimed by madness, and his blindness had the distracted cast of a man who wandered among ghosts and saw only death.”
This quote powerfully captures Anele’s tragic mental state, illustrating how his prophetic gifts have become a curse. It reflects the chapter’s theme of fractured perception and the dangers of supernatural insight.
2. “She had found the door to power within herself, and would be able to do so again. In addition, the restoration of her senses seemed to fill her with possibilities.”
This marks a pivotal moment of self-discovery for Linden, showing her growing mastery of her abilities while hinting at future challenges. It represents the chapter’s exploration of personal empowerment.
3. “Every step that she took in the company of the Ramen, like every tale that she heard—like wild magic itself—was necessary to her. Yet none of them brought her nearer to Jeremiah.”
This poignant quote encapsulates Linden’s central conflict - gaining power and knowledge while feeling no closer to rescuing her son. It highlights the emotional core driving her journey.
4. “He helped her believe that a world which gave birth to such people could never be entirely ruined by Despite.”
This reflection on Liand’s character shows how hope persists even in dark times. It’s significant as it reveals how relationships sustain Linden amid her struggles.
5. “Your weariness is plain, Ringthane. Your mount will be able to bear you, if you wish it.” / “No, thanks… If Somo can manage it, I probably can too.”
This exchange demonstrates Linden’s determination to overcome physical limitations through sheer willpower. It shows her character growth and refusal to surrender to weakness.