# Face-of-God Talketh with the Sun-Beam explained — The Roots of the Mountains

> Chapter companion for The Roots of the Mountains by William Morris.

## What happens

Face-of-god meets Sun-beam at the bridge before sunrise, and they walk through the meadows, sharing intimate conversation about their love, their past, and their hopes for the future. They reflect on how they have changed since first meeting, and Sun-beam reassures Face-of-god that her love for her people is genuine, even as she delights in their bond. They discuss the impending battle, with Sun-beam expressing a wish to die in his arms if necessary, while Face-of-god affirms his commitment to the kindred. The chapter ends with them noticing footprints in the sand, suggesting other lovers have passed by.

## Themes in this chapter

### Love and Sacrifice

The chapter centers on the deep love between Face-of-god and Sun-beam, and their willingness to face death together for the sake of their people.

### War and Liberation

The impending battle looms over their conversation, highlighting the sacrifice and hope for a better future through conflict.

## Character check-ins

### Face-of-god

Meets Sun-beam at the bridge, walks with her in the meadow, and engages in deep conversation about love, war, and his role as a chieftain.

### Sun-beam

Walks barefoot in the meadow with Face-of-god, expresses her love and fear for him, and reflects on her past wisdom and present joy.

## Key lines

> Gold-mane, my dear, sorely I wonder at thee and at me, how we are changed since that day last autumn when I first saw thee.

Sun-beam marvels at how both she and Face-of-god have transformed since their first meeting.

_Reflects on personal growth and the evolution of their relationship._

> I would die for the kindred and its good days, nor falter therein; but if I am to die, might I but die in thine arms!

Sun-beam declares her readiness to sacrifice herself for her people, but wishes to die in Face-of-god's embrace.

_Highlights the theme of love and sacrifice._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_roots_of_the_mountains_se/chapters/xxxv-face-of-god-talketh-with-the-sun-beam
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_roots_of_the_mountains_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_roots_of_the_mountains_se/chapters