End? No, the journey doesn't end here. Death is just another path, one that we all must take. The grey rain-curtain of this world rolls back, and all turns to silver glass, and then you see it.

At last, Lady Evenstar, fairest in this world, and most beloved, my world is fading. Lo! we have gathered, and we have spent, and now the time of payment draws near." 'Arwen knew well what he intended, and long had foreseen it; nonetheless she was overborne by her grief. "Would you then, lord, before your time leave your people that live by your word?" she said.

Art is the human process that produces by the way (it is not its only or ultimate object) Secondary Belief.

it was easier to believe in the Dragon and less easy to believe in Thorin in these wild parts

Of all the things that men may heed 'Tis most of love they sing indeed.

Tell me, who are you, alone, yourself and nameless?

I cordially dislike allegory in all its manifestations, and always have done since I grew old and wary enough to detect its presence.