b2mem | Entries tagged with 2016:mod post

We wish to thank everyone who participated in Back to Middle-earth Month this year. There were nearly two hundred fanworks posted here in the community. Whether by creating, reviewing, or both, you helped keep the fandom alive.

We also wish to thank our mod team:

indy1776 was our head mod this year as well as a tagger and poster of prompts.

dreamflower02 wrote and posted all of the retrospective posts on past B2MeM events.

ysilme was both a new mod this year and helped post the prompts.

dawn_felagund volunteered to help post the prompts as well as do background work despite working on her thesis.

angelica_ramses,

huinare, and

rhapsodythebard were likewise wonderful help during the planning and running-the-event stages.

We especially would like to thank

lignota, who volunteered to help tag for the fifth year in a row!

A final note: B2MeM prompts never expire so feel free to use them to create fanworks throughout the year. This community and our AO3 collections are likewise open year-round for posting of works inspired by the prompts.

We hope you’ve had a wonderful time and hope to see you again next year!

independence1776

Here are today’s prompts:

2007 (t_n_b)-- þ - thorn - like þoughtful Þéoden.

2007 (SWG)-- In all the days of the Third Age, after the fall of Gil-galad, Master Elrond abode in Imladris, and he gathered there many Elves, and other folk of wisdom and power from among all the kindreds of Middle-earth, and he preserved through many lives of Men the memory of all that had been fair; and the house of Elrond was a refuge for the weary and the oppressed, and a treasury of good counsel and wise lore.

2009-- Think of an experience when you realised that you suddenly understood an idea, a skill, or a concept you had been struggling with--it might be something related to a class that you took or a specific skill you were trying to perfect it. Translate this moment to your Middle-earth character and capture this in a story, poem or piece of art.

2009-- Bob Dylan says "Don't criticize what you don't understand." Do you agree with this? Have you ever been criticized by someone who didn't understand you? Think or write briefly about this experience. Now write a story, poem or create an artwork where unfounded criticism plays a central part.

2011-- Write a story or poem, or create a piece of art on the theme of leaving or returning home.

2012-- O70

2013 (Z)-- "Now Thingol had in Menegroth deep armouries filled with great wealth of weapons: metal wrought like fishes' mail an shining like water in the moon; swords and axes, shields an helms, wrought by Telchar himself or by his master Gamil Zirak the old, or by elven-wrights more skilful still."

2013 (Z)-- "'Stare, if you must, great eyes!' he said. 'You're a pretty girl, but too thin. Will you eat?' He took a loaf out of his bag.
'Be off, Îbal!' cried an old woman, coming from the dairy-door. 'And use your long legs, or you'll forget the message I gave you for your mother before you get home!'
'No need for a watch-dog where you are, mother Zamîn!' cried the boy, and with a bark and a shout he leapt over the gate and went off at a run down the hill. Zamîn was an old country?woman, free-tongued, and not easily daunted, even by the White Lady."

2013 (Z)-- "There I lay staring upward, while the stars wheeled over, and each day was as long as a life-age of the earth. Faint to my ears came the rumour of all lands: the springing and the dying, the song and the weeping, and the slow everlasting groan of overburdened stone."

For more prompts, check out the 2016:prompts tag.

Posted via m.livejournal.com.

dreamflower

Back to Middle-earth Month 2016: Remembering 2014

Discussion post for 2014

The theme for 2014 was "Back to Middle-earth Month 2014: Seasons of Middle-earth".

This year's Back to Middle-earth Month event will involve putting together a compilation of writing and art related to the theme "Four Seasons of Middle-earth." Each day during the month of March, we will post a selection of stories, poetry, and artwork created in response to prompts related to this year's theme.

There will eventually be an ebook of the compilation available.

Participants chose a season, and were assigned a date for their piece to be posted.

Did you participate in the 2014 Four Seasons Challenge? Did you make posts or write stories for it? If you did, please share your experience with us here in the comments. Give us links, share your anecdotes and memories.

Did you miss out on it, but find yourself curious about it? Check out the comments and ask questions and join in the discussions! And if you check out previous works, be sure to let the creator know how you liked them.

independence1776

Here are today’s prompts:

2007 (t_n_b)-- ð - eth - like a thirsty Third Marshal on the Thrihyrne.

2007 (SWG)-- Then Gil-galad and Elendil passed into Mordor and encompassed the stronghold of Sauron; and they laid siege to it for seven years, and suffered grievous loss by fire and by the darts and bolts of the Enemy, and Sauron sent many sorties against them.

2009-- What if you have been falsely accused of something? Take that emotion and write a story or poem or create a piece of art what your character would do. What would he or she do: set the record straight or walk away or ...?

2011-- Write a story or poem or create artwork where your character battles and overcomes their darkest hour.

2012-- B6

2013 (XY)-- "Some there are who have seen her standing like a tree under heaven, crowned with the Sun; and from all its branches there spilled a golden dew upon the barren earth, and it grew green with corn."

2013 (XY)-- "They did not speak, for no one, save only the King, spoke upon the height of Meneltarma; but as they came down Erendis stood a moment, looking towards Emerië, and beyond, towards the woods of her home.
'Do you not love the Yôzâyan?' she said.
'I love it indeed,' he answered, 'though I think that you doubt it. For I think also of what it may be in time to come, and the hope and splendour of its people; and I believe that a gift should not lie idle in hoard.'"

2013 (XY)-- "There were no more sounds. Even the leaves were silent, and the very falls seemed to be hushed. Frodo sat and shivered in his wraps. He was thankful that they had not been caught on the ground; but he felt that the trees offered little protection, except concealment. Orcs were as keen as hounds on a scent, it was said, but they could also climb. He drew out Sting: it flashed and glittered like a blue flame and then slowly faded again and grew dull. In spite of the fading of his sword the feeling of immediate danger did not leave Frodo, rather it grew stronger. He got up and crawled to the opening and peered down. He was almost certain that he could hear stealthy movements at the tree's foot far below."

For more prompts, check out the 2016:prompts tag.

Posted via m.livejournal.com.

independence1776

Here are today’s prompts:

2007 (t_n_b)-- ,the G-rune - like Gandalf is no goon.

2007 (SWG)-- The chief city of this southern realm was Osgiliath, through the midst of which the Great River flowed; and the Númenóreans built there a great bridge, upon which there were towers and houses of stone wonderful to behold, and tall ships came up out of the sea to the quays of the city.

2009-- What's your favorite month of the year? Consider or write briefly about why this month is special. Picture your character during this month, his or her activities or reflections. Try to cover this in a story, poem or piece of art.

2011-- “There was no avoiding it; the letter had to be composed...” Who will receive this letter? An uncle? A lover? The High-King? Why is there "no avoiding it"? Circumstances? Or is Mother watching with arms crossed? Will the letter be written in haste? Or will each phrase be meticulously crafted? Write a story or poem inspired by this line (you do not need to use the exact quote), or create a piece of art that reflects this situation.

2012-- G59

2013 (W)-- "But Morgoth himself the Valar thrust through the Door of Night beyond the Walls of the World, into the Timeless Void; and a guard is set for ever on those walls, and Eärendil keeps watch upon the ramparts of the sky."

2013 (W)-- "... but still its might and splendour increased. For the kings and their people had not yet abandoned wisdom, and if they loved the Valar no longer at least they still feared them."

2013 (W)-- "A troubled look came into the guard's eyes. 'Of Éomer I have naught to say,' he answered. 'If what you tell me is truth, then doubtless Théoden will have heard of it. Maybe your coming was not wholly unlooked-for. It is but two nights ago that Wormtongue came to us and said that by the will of Théoden no stranger should pass these gates.'"

For more prompts, check out the 2016:prompts tag.

Posted via m.livejournal.com.

ysilme

Here are today’s prompts:

2007 (t_n_b)-- Ë - an "e" with dots like Fëanor with spots.

2007 (SWG)-- It was in Eregion that the counsels of Sauron were most gladly received, for in that land the Noldor desired ever to increase the skill and subtlety of their works. Moreover they were not at peace in their hearts, since they had refused to return into the West, and they desired both to stay in Middle-earth, which indeed they loved, and yet to enjoy the bliss of those that had departed. Therefore they hearkened to Sauron, and they learned of him many things, for his knowledge was great. In those days the smiths of Ost-in-Edhil surpassed all that they had contrived before; and they took thought, and they made Rings of Power.

2009-- Imagine this, a relative of your chosen characters passes on and lives your character a trunk. He or she opens it when... Capture that moment in a piece of art, be it a drawing, story or poem.

2011-- Write a story or poem, or create a piece of art where your character rises above themselves to follow their dreams.

2012-- B13

2013 (V)-- "But the Great Sea is terrible, Tuor son of Huor, and it hates the Noldor, for it works the Doom of the Valar. Worse things it holds than to sink into the abyss and so perish: loathing, and loneliness and madness."

2013 (V)-- "He was born in the year 61 of the Second Age and died in 471. He was called Nólimon for his chief love was for ancient lore, which he gathered from Elves and Men. Upon the departure of Elros, being then 381 years of age, he did not ascend the throne, but gave the sceptre to his son. He is nonetheless accounted the second of the Kings, and is deemed to have reigned one year. It remained the custom thereafter until the days."

2013 (V)-- "There was Gildor and many fair Elven folk; and there to Sam's wonder rode Elrond and Galadriel. Elrond wore a mantle of grey and had a star upon his forehead, and a silver harp was in his hand, and upon his finger was a ring of gold with a great blue stone, Vilya, mightiest of the Three."

For more prompts, check out the 2016:prompts tag.

ysilme

Here are today’s prompts:

2007 (t_n_b)-- Z: Like zooming around Zirakzigil

2007 (SWG)-- Upon the shores of the Gulf of Lhûn the Elves built their havens, and named them Mithlond; and there they held many ships, for the harbourage was good. From the Grey Havens the Eldar ever and anon set sail, fleeing from the darkness of the days of Earth; for by the mercy of the Valar the Firstborn could still follow the Straight Road and return, if they would, to their kindred in Eressëa and Valinor beyond the encircling seas.

2009-- Think of a teacher who played a key role in your life. What qualities about this person influenced you? Write briefly about this person: a short character sketch, scene, or conversation involving her or him. Write a story, poem or create an artwork about a character who educated his people in some way.

2011-- How would a character not allowed to express his or her thoughts, creativity, or opinion act out? Capture this in a story, poem or piece of art.

2012-- N36

2013 (U)-- "Thus news comes to Ulmo, even in the deeps, of all the needs and griefs of Arda, which otherwise would be hidden from Manwë."

2013 (U)-- "In that time Aldarion became estranged from his father, and ceased to speak openly of his designs and his desires; but Almarian the Queen supported her son in all that he did, and Meneldur perforce let matters go as they must. For the Ven?turers grew in numbers and in the esteem of men, and they called them Uinendili, the lovers of Uinen; and their Captain became the less easy to rebuke or restrain."

2013 (U)-- "Then the whole company began to run with the long loping strides of Orcs. They kept no order, thrusting, jostling, and cursing; yet their speed was very great. Each hobbit had a guard of three. Pippin was far back in the line. He wondered how long he would be able to go on at this pace: he had had no food since the morning. One of his guards had a whip. But at present the orc-liquor was still hot in him. His wits, too, were wide-awake."

For more prompts, check out the 2016:prompts tag.

dreamflower

Back to Middle-earth Month 2016: Remembering 2013

Discussion post for 2013

Back-to-Middle-earth Month 2013: Scavenger Hunt: Expedition in the Abecedarium

Middle-earth is full of hunters. The Vala Oromë found the first people of Middle-earth while hunting, and hunters have remained central to the stories since. Whether hunting for an Arkenstone or a band of Orcs or for truth and justice, Tolkien’s world is full of hunts for things both physical and metaphorical. Back-to-Middle-earth Month Scavenger Hunt: Expedition in the Abecedarium seeks to encourage creativity in the Tolkien fandom through a “quote scavenger hunt” that participants will use as inspiration for stories, art, meta, and other creative responses.

In 2013, a "Reading Week" was added at the end of the event. This was to encourage those who could not find the time to read, due to working on projects for the event, could take the time to read and comment afterwards.

Did you participate in the 2013 Scavenger Hunt Challenge? Did you make posts or write stories for it? If you did, please share your experience with us here in the comments. Give us links, share your anecdotes and memories.

Did you miss out on it, but find yourself curious about it? Check out the comments and ask questions and join in the discussions! And if you check out previous works, be sure to let the creator know how you liked them.

dawn_felagund

Here are today’s prompts:

2006 -- In the "Tale of the Years" Tolkien tells us about what happens to certain characters each day of March 3019. We challenge you to write about the character(s) he does NOT mention: “The Host is surrounded on the Slag-hills. Frodo and Samwise reach the Sammath Naur. Gollum seizes the Ring and falls into the Cracks of Doom. Downfall of Barad-dûr and passing of Sauron."

2007 (t_n_b) -- Y: Like a yawning Yavanna

2007 (SWG) -- Thus in after days, what by the voyages of ships, what by lore and star-craft, the kings of Men knew that the world was indeed made round, and yet the Eldar were permitted still to depart and to come to the Ancient West and to Avallónë, if they would. Therefore the loremasters of Men said that a Straight Road must still be, for those that were permitted to find it. And they taught that, while the new world fell away, the old road and the path of the memory of the West still went on, as it were a mighty bridge invisible that passed through the air of breath and of flight (which were bent now as the world was bent), and traversed Ilmen which flesh unaided cannot endure, until it came to Tol Eressëa, the Lonely Isle, and maybe even beyond, to Valinor, where the Valar still dwell and watch the unfolding of the story of the world. And tales and rumours arose along the shores of the sea concerning mariners and men forlorn upon the water who, by some fate or grace or favour of the Valar, had entered in upon the Straight Way and seen the face of the world sink below them, and so had come to the lamplit quays of Avallónë, or verily to the last beaches on the margin of Aman, and there had looked upon the White Mountain, dreadful and beautiful, before they died.

2009 -- What are your fondest memories of your childhood? And the saddest? Write briefly about a memory that is particularly powerful, whether it is happy or sad. Write a story, poem or create an artwork based on those feelings and experiences or based on a character's memories.

2011 -- “She knelt on the floor, carefully picking up the shards of glass. Why did it have to be this one that broke?” Start a story with this two lines and answer the question of what was once broken. Or create a poem or piece of art that pictures this scene.

2012 -- O62

2013 (T) -- "He forgot then utterly all his people and all the purposes of his mind, and following the birds under the shadow of the trees he passed deep into Nan Elmoth and was lost."

2013 (T) -- "And last of all the mounting wave, green and cold and plumed with foam, climbing over the land, took to its bosom Tar-Míriel the Queen, fairer than silver or ivory or pearls. Too late she strove to ascend the steep ways of the Meneltarma to the holy place; for the waters overtook her, and her cry was lost in the roaring of the wind."

2013 (T) -- "Up they got again; and this time the result was disastrous. The feast that they now saw was greater and more magnificent than before; and at the head of a long line of feasters sat a woodland king with a crown of leaves upon his golden hair, very much as Bombur had described the figure in his dream. The elvish folk were passing bowls from hand to hand and across the fires, and some were harping and many were singing. Their gloaming hair was twined with flowers; green and white gems glinted on their collars and their belts; and their faces and their songs were filled with mirth. Loud and clear and fair were those songs, and out stepped Thorin into their midst."

For more prompts, check out the 2016:prompts tag.

dawn_felagund

Here are today’s prompts:

2006 -- In the "Tale of the Years" Tolkien tells us about what happens to certain characters each day of March 3019. We challenge you to write about the character(s) he does NOT mention: “Frodo and Samwise make their last journey to the feet of Mount Doom. The Host camps in the Desolation of the Morannon."

2007 (t_n_b) -- X: Like excruciating exertions on the way to that crucial cross on the mouldering map

2007 (SWG) -- But Sauron caused to be built upon the hill in the midst of the city of the Númenóreans, Armenelos the Golden, a mighty temple; and it was in the form of a circle at the base, and there the walls were fifty feet in thickness, and the width of the base was five hundred feet across the centre, and the walls rose from the ground five hundred feet, and they were crowned with a mighty dome. And that dome was roofed all with silver, and rose glittering in the sun, so that the light of it could be seen afar off; but soon the light was darkened, and the silver became black. For there was an altar of fire in the midst of the temple, and in the topmost of the dome there was a louver, whence there issued a great smoke. And the first fire upon the altar Sauron kindled with the hewn wood of Nimloth, and it crackled and was consumed; but men marvelled at the reek that went up from it, so that the land lay under a cloud for seven days, until slowly it passed into the west.

2009 -- Choose your favorite line or quotation from a non-Tolkien source. It can be a book, movie, poem--anything you can think of! Write down that quote. Now create a story, poem, or work of art that relates to it somehow, either the quote itself or the meaning that you take from it.

2011 -- Write a story or poem or create artwork using one or more animals as symbols, omens, or metaphors. Use associations and meanings from any culture or source you wish (e.g., Celtic, Native American, Biblical).

2012 -- O64

For more prompts, check out the 2016:prompts tag.

independence1776

Here are today’s prompts:

In the "Tale of the Years" Tolkien tells us about what happens to certain characters each day of March 3019. We challenge you to write about the character(s) he does NOT mention: “The Host passes out of Ithilien. Aragorn dismisses the faint-hearted. Frodo and Samwise cast away their arms and gear."

W: Like wet Wargs

And men saw his sails coming up out of the sunset, dyed as with scarlet and gleaming with red and gold, and fear fell upon the dwellers by the coasts, and they fled far away. But the fleet came at last to that place that was called Umbar, where was the mighty haven of the Númenóreans that no hand had wrought. Empty and silent were all the lands about when the King of the Sea marched upon Middle-earth. For seven days he journeyed with banner and trumpet, and he came to a hill, and he went up, and he set there his pavilion and his throne; and he sat him down in the midst of the land, and the tents of his host were ranged all about him, blue, golden, and white, as a field of tall flowers. Then he sent forth heralds, and he commanded Sauron to come before him and swear to him fealty.

You find an old dusty bottle and, when you pick it up, a genie pops out! What three wishes would you make and why? Now, imagine that your character bumps into a genie (or a Middle-earth variation of it) and she offers to grant your character three wishes. What are the wishes and why would he and she wish for them? Create an artwork, story or poem how your character mulls it over or goes about it.

What is the greatest sacrifice you can be asked to make? Think or write briefly about this. Write a story, poem or create an artwork where the characters make their greatest sacrifice.

Dol Goldur: “Everyone avoided the tower. It was believed to have ...” Write a story or poem that starts with this line or create a piece of art that reflects this line.

"The Noldor also it was who first achieved the making of gems; and the fairest of all gems were the Silmarils, and they are lost."

"Next to it lay a treasure without price, long mourned as lost for ever: the Elendilmir itself, the white star of Elvish crystal upon a fillet of mithril that had descended from Silmarien to Elendil, and had been taken by him as the token of royalty in the North Kingdom."

"But I don't think you need go alone. Not if you know of anyone you can trust, and who would be willing to go by your side - and that you would be willing to take into unknown perils. But if you look for a companion, be careful in choosing! And be careful of what you say, even to your closest friends! The enemy has many spies and many ways of hearing."

For more prompts, check out the 2016:prompts tag.

Posted via m.livejournal.com.

dreamflower

Back to Middle-earth Month 2016: Remembering 2012

Discussion post for 2012

The theme for Back to Middle-earth Month 2012 was Bingo Baggins' BINGO Bash:

2012's B2MeM was the largest hosted to date, with 88 participants signed on to play. The Silmarillion Writers' Guild and Many Paths to Tread were also joined by Arda Inspired as a sponsoring community. Participants in the 2012 challenge selected from over 100 different BINGO cards, also created by participants. Cards were themed and included challenges in the card spaces. A new BINGO number was called daily, and participants had two days to complete and report any challenges. When participants completed and reported a challenge, they received a stamp on the relevant card.

For the first time, a reviewer challenge was added. Those who reviewed works were encouraged to keep track and reported them to the comm, and were able to get banners and icons for participating as a reviewer.

This was also the first year that the

b2mem LiveJournal community was used, in order for creators from all the participating groups to gather in one location. Stories and art were either posted at the new comm, or were linked there, making them easier to find.

Did you participate in the 2012 BINGO Challenge? Did you make posts or write stories for it? If you did, please share your experience with us here in the comments. Give us links, share your anecdotes and memories.

Did you miss out on it, but find yourself curious about it? Check out the comments and ask questions and join in the discussions! And if you check out previous works, be sure to let the creator know how you liked them.

independence1776

Here are today’s prompts:

In the "Tale of the Years" Tolkien tells us about what happens to certain characters each day of March 3019. We challenge you to write about the character(s) he does NOT mention: “The dreadful nightfall. Frodo and Samwise leave the road and turn south to Mount Doom. Third assault on Lórien."

V: Like a visiting Varda

But the wise among them knew that this distant land was not indeed the Blessed Realm of Valinor, but was Avallónë, the haven of the Eldar upon Eressëa, easternmost of the Undying Lands. And thence at times the Firstborn still would come sailing to Númenor in oarless boats, as white birds flying from the sunset. And they brought to Númenor many gifts: birds of song, and fragrant flowers, and herbs of great virtue. And a seedling they brought of Celeborn, the White Tree that grew in the midst of Eressëa; and that was in its turn a seedling of Galathilion the Tree of Túna, the image of Telperion that Yavanna gave to the Eldar in the Blessed Realm. And the tree grew and blossomed in the courts of the King in Armenelos; Nimloth it was named, and flowered in the evening, and the shadows of night it filled with its fragrance.

According to the Romans, the basic principle of the law is that agreements should be respected under all circumstances. Do you agree with this? Is there a time in your life when you had to break this principle? When someone broke an agreement with you? Now write a story, poem or create an artwork where characters are forced to break this principle.

Erebor: Refugee issues are our issues; their plight is our plight. Write a story or poem or create artwork that illustrates the situation of some displaced group in Middle-earth.

"Then it was that the Noldor first bethought them of letters, and Rúmil of Tirion was the name of the loremaster who first achieved fitting signs for the recording of speech and song, some for graving upon metal or in stone, others for drawing with brush or with pen."

"From the first he loved the Sea, and his mind was turned to the craft of ship-building. He had little liking for the north country, and spent all the time that his father would grant by the shores of the sea, especially near R?menna, where was the chief haven of Númenor, the greatest shipyards, and the most skilled shipwrights."

"His house was perfect, whether you liked food, or sleep, or work, or story-telling, or singing, or just sitting and thinking best, or a pleasant mixture of them all. Evil things did not come into that valley."

For more prompts, check out the 2016:prompts tag.

Posted via m.livejournal.com.

dreamflower

Back to Middle-earth Month 2016: Remembering 2011

Discussion post for 2011

The theme for Back to Middle-earth Month 2011 was Passport to Middle-earth:

This year we invite you to travel! The Silmarillion Writers’ Guild has teamed up with Many Paths to Tread to host Passport to Middle-earth: a month-long holiday visiting our favourite places in Middle-earth. Every day, the tour will stop in a new location and, with it will come a new challenge to tempt your muses. We invite you to create a response for one, some, or all of our daily challenges! Once you've completed a challenge, you will receive a stamp from that location for your passport.

Once you've completed a challenge, you will receive a stamp from that location for your passport. You can copy HTML code to display the stamp on your profile page as soon as you complete the day's challenge. Once you've finished with all of the challenges you want to do, you can contact us, and we will put your stamps together into a passport for you to display on your profile.

Did you participate in the 2011 Passport Challenge? Did you make posts or write stories for it? If you did, please share your experience with us here in the comments. Give us links, share your anecdotes and memories.

Did you miss out on it, but find yourself curious about it? Check out the comments and ask questions and join in the discussions! And if you check out previous works, be sure to let the creator know how you liked them.

independence1776

Here are today’s prompts:

U: Like unsavory urges in Umbar

Then the Edain set sail upon the deep waters, following the Star; and the Valar laid a peace upon the sea for many days, and sent sunlight and a sailing wind, so that the waters glittered before the eyes of the Edain like rippling glass, and the foam flew like snow before the stems of their ships. But so bright was Rothinzil that even at morning Men could see it glimmering in the West, and in the cloudless night it shone alone, for no other star could stand beside it. And setting their course towards it the Edain came at last over leagues of sea and saw afar the land that was prepared for them, Andor, the Land of Gift, shimmering in a golden haze.

Describe a big storm from your memory and place it in Tolkien's world. Write a story, poem or create a piece of art that reflects this impressive moment.

Mirkwood: The words West and East are often used in the works of Tolkien. Write a story or poem or create an artwork that uses these words as the central focus, whether as cardinals, regions, or as metaphors.

"The ancient tongue, common to all Elves, in the form that it took in Valinor; brought to Middle-earth by the Noldorin exiles, but abandoned by them as a daily speech, especially after the edict of King Thingol against its use."

"She was the only child of Tar-Aldarion, and the first Ruling Queen of N?menor. She was born in the year 873, and she reigned for 205 years, longer than any ruler after Elros; she surrendered the sceptre in 1280, and died in 1285."

"Now not day only shall be beloved, but night too shall be beautiful and blessed and all fear pass away!"

For more prompts, check out the 2016:prompts tag.

Posted via m.livejournal.com.

ysilme

Here are today’s prompts:

T: Like a turgid Turgon

Thus an end was made of the power of Angband in the North, and the evil realm was brought to naught; and out of the deep prisons a multitude of slaves came forth beyond all hope into the light of day, and they looked upon a world that was changed. For so great was the fury of those adversaries that the northern regions of the western world were rent asunder, and the sea roared in through many chasms, and there was confusion and great noise; and rivers perished or found new paths, and the valleys were upheaved and the hills trod down; and Sirion was no more.

We all have experienced this. Due to illness, a family event, work, you didn't have as much time to study for an important test as you needed or finish a project you promised to do. Think of a specific event that you went through of which you felt unprepared for and write briefly about the preparation that you were able to do, the reasons that you didn't get to prepare as well as you wanted, and of course, the outcome. Write a story, poem or create a piece of art where a character is unprepared.

Write a story or poem or create an artwork in which a character unaccustomed to acting as a leader must make an important decision.

"For though Eru appointed to you to die not in Eä, and no sickness may assail you, yet slain ye may be, and slain ye shall be: by weapon and by torment and by grief; and your houseless spirits shall come then to Mandos."

"Many treasures and great heirlooms of virtue and wonder the Exiles had brought from Númenor; and of these the most renowned were the Seven Stones and the White Tree."

"There was a specially large pavilion, so big that the tree that grew in the field was right inside it, and stood proudly near one end, at the head of the chief table. Lanterns were hung on all its branches. More promising still (to the hobbits' mind): an enormous open-air kitchen was erected in the north corner of the field."

For more prompts, check out the 2016:prompts tag.

ysilme

Here are today’s prompts:

In the "Tale of the Years" Tolkien tells us about what happens to certain characters each day of March 3019. We challenge you to write about the character(s) he does NOT mention: “The Host comes to Mogul-vale. Frodo and Samwise escape and begin their journey along the road to the Barad-dûr."

S: Like a sordid Sauron

Softly in the gloom they heard the birds
Singing afar in Nargothrond,
The sighting of the Sea beyond,
Beyond the western world, on sand,
On sand of pearls on Elvenland.
Then in the doom gathered; darkness growing
In Valinor, the red blood flowing
Beside the Sea, where the Noldor slew
The Foamriders, and stealing drew
Their white ships with their white sails
From lamplit havens. The wind wails,
The wolf howls. The ravens flee.
The ice mutters in the mouths of the Sea.
The captives sad in Angband mourn.
Thunder rumbles, the fires burn--
And Finrod fell before the throne.

If you could pass on three pieces of wisdom to future generations, what would they be? Now, from the point of view of a character, what three things would this character want to pass on to his or her children and grandchildren? How similar are they to yours? Write a story, poem or create a piece of art which reflects this.

Write a story or create a piece of artwork centred on meetings or reunions.

"Fëanor and his sons abode seldom in one place for long, but travelled far and wide upon the confines of Valinor, going even to the borders of the Dark and the cold shores of the Outer Sea, seeking the unknown."

"The building of the chief city of Eregion, Ost-in-Edhil, was begun in about the year 750 of the Second Age [the date that is given in the Tale of Years for the founding of Eregion by the Noldor]."

"He spoke then in a great voice the Oath of Eorl. This he said in the tongue of the Éothéod, which in the Common Speech is interpreted: Hear now all peoples who bow not to the Shadow in the East, by the gift of the Lord of the Mundburg we will come to dwell in the land that he names Calenardhon, and therefore I vow in my own name and on behalf of the Éothéod of the North that between us and the Great People of the West there shall be friendship for ever: their enemies shall be our enemies, their need shall be our need, and whatsoever evil, or threat, or assault may come upon them we will aid them to the utmost end of our strength. This vow shall descend to my heirs, all such as may come after me in our new land, and let them keep it in faith unbroken, lest the Shadow fall upon them and they become accursed."

For more prompts, check out the 2016:prompts tag.

dawn_felagund

Here are today’s prompts:

2006 -- In the "Tale of the Years" Tolkien tells us about what happens to certain characters each day of March 3019. We challenge you to write about the character(s) he does NOT mention: “The Host of the West marches from Minas Tirith. Frodo comes in sight of the Isenmouthe; he is overtaken by Orcs on the road from Durthang to Udûn."

2007 (t_n_b) -- R: Like a radiant Radagast

2007 (SWG) -- There came a time near dawn on the eve of spring, and Lúthien danced upon a green hill; and suddenly she began to sing. Keen, heart-piercing was her song as the song of the lark that rises from the gates of night and pours its voice among the dying stars, seeing the sun behind the walls of the world; and the song of Lúthien released the bonds of winter, and the frozen waters spoke, and flowers sprang from the cold earth where her feet had passed.

2009 -- Craft a story, poem or artwork where your character is in bed and he or she awakes to a future leader, heir, or current leader standing outside the window, staring into your character's face with a giant smile. What's going on?

2011 -- The act of kindness or hospitality usually comes from a generous heart. Write a story or poem, or create a piece of art where your character displays this virtue.

2012 -- N38

2013 (N) -- "For the Naugrim withstood fire more hardily than either Elves or Men, and it was their custom moreover to wear great masks in battle hideous to look upon; and those stood them in good stead against the dragons."

2013 (N) -- "Therefore they grew wise and glorious, and in all things more like to the Firstborn than any other of the kindreds of Men; and they were tall, taller than the tallest of the sons of Middle-earth; and the light of their eyes was like the bright stars."

2013 (N) -- "'They come from Mordor,' said Strider in a low voice. 'From Mordor, Barliman, if that means anything to you.'"

For more prompts, check out the 2016:prompts tag .

dawn_felagund

Here are today’s prompts:

2006 -- In the "Tale of the Years" Tolkien tells us about what happens to certain characters each day of March 3019. We challenge you to write about the character(s) he does NOT mention: “Battle of Dale. King Brand and King Dáin Ironfoot fall. Many Dwarves and Men take refuge in Erebor and are besieged. Shagrat brings Frodo's cloak, mail-shirt, and sword to Barad-dûr."

2007 (t_n_b) -- Q: Like a querulous Quickbeam

2007 (SWG) -- Now the forest of Dorthonion rose southward into mountainous moors; and in the east of those highlands there lay a lake, Tarn Aeluin, with wild heaths about it, and all that land was pathless and untamed, for even in the days of the Long Peace none had dwelt there. But the waters of Tarn Aeluin were held in reverence, for they were clear and blue by day and by night were a mirror for the stars; and it was said that Melian herself had hallowed that water in the days of old. Thither Barahir and his outlaws withdrew, and there made their lair, and Morgoth could not discover it.

2009 -- A stereotype is a generalization, usually exaggerated or oversimplified and often offensive, used to describe a group. Think about a group that you identify with, either in your real life or in Tolkien's works, and write down at least three stereotypes that do or might exist about that group. Write a story, poem or create an artwork where characters break stereotypes.

2011 -- Hobbits are well known for their gift-giving traditions. Write a story or poem in which the exchange of gifts is featured, or use "gifting" as a theme for a piece of art.

2012 -- B1

For more prompts, check out the 2016:prompts tag.

dreamflower

Back to Middle-earth Month 2016: Remembering 2010

Discussion post for 2010

In 2010, B2MeM participants embarked on an adventure to determine the fate of the world during the Last Battle.

This year's event is a quest game writing challenge. Imagine yourself far in the future from your favorite age of Arda. The Elves have long passed into the West. The Age of Men began millennia ago. Only in legend, largely forgotten, do the people of Middle-earth recall the Ring War, the ascension of King Aragorn, the last ship to depart from the Grey Havens. The world has again begun to change. The waves break on new lands, and a new threat passes its dark hand across the tired face of the Sun. Perhaps in the deepest and long-forgotten lore the people of Arda can find the secrets to overcome this new threat?

Rules for this particular challenge could be found here.

The challenge this year was partially a role-playing game, and partially a writing challenge. Writers could take part in choreographing the Dagor Dagorath, Arda's Last Battle, or they could opt to just write unrelated stories based on the daily prompts. They were also encouraged to work in teams if they wished to. The gathering place was "The Tavern", a place where the characters met to plan their moves. It was a very exciting experience.

Did you participate in the 2010 Last Battle Challenge? Did you make posts or write stories for it? If you did, please share your experience with us here in the comments. Give us links, share your anecdotes and memories.

Did you miss out on it, but find yourself curious about it? Check out the comments and ask questions and join in the discussions! And if you check out previous works, be sure to let the creator know how you liked them.