The Roots of the Mountains · Chapter
Talk Upon the Wildwood Way explained
Face-of-god walks with the Sun-beam and Bow-may through an oak-wood, discussing the likelihood of returning to Silverdale.
What happens
Face-of-god walks with the Sun-beam and Bow-may through an oak-wood, discussing the likelihood of returning to Silverdale. The Sun-beam reflects on the many troubles and duties that will keep them away, and Face-of-god accepts that only war or trouble may bring him back. The scene is filled with the bright presence of the House of the Steer as they journey toward Burgdale.
Themes in this chapter
Heroic Journey and Self-Discovery
Face-of-god reflects on his transformation from a wanderer to a chieftain, and the many deeds that now fill his days.
Love and Sacrifice
The Sun-beam and Face-of-god share a fond but unsmiling exchange, acknowledging that love may be set aside for duty and war.
Characters to notice
- Face-of-god
Walks with the Sun-beam and Bow-may, discussing the future and the unlikelihood of returning to Silverdale except through war.
- Sun-beam
Talks with Face-of-god about the long road and the many troubles that will hinder their return to Silverdale.
- Bow-may
Walks barefoot with bow and arrows, bearing a sword, accompanying the Sun-beam and Face-of-god.
Key passages
“What deemest thou, my speech-friend, concerning our coming back to guest in Silverdale one day?”
What do you think about us returning to Silverdale as guests someday?
Face-of-god asks the Sun-beam about the possibility of returning to Silverdale.
“The way is long. That may hinder us but not stay us.”
The distance is great, but it will only delay us, not stop us.
Face-of-god acknowledges the long journey but remains determined.
“Thinkest thou that the winning of Silverstead is the last battle which thou shalt see?”
Do you believe that the victory at Silverstead will be your final battle?
The Sun-beam questions whether Face-of-god thinks his fighting days are over.