Importance of Water

Water represents protection. Throughout the novel, both the Eldar and Tuor have been compelled to seek out water. Whether it be the Great Sea or the Sirion River, being near water builds a desire to stay near it. This is because water is the center of Ulmo’s power. Without water, the people have no protection. This is most important during the battle of Gondolin. While the fountain still flows, the people have hope. When the fountain dries up, the people feel hopeless. This is also why Ulmo leads the survivors back to the Great Sea and the Sirion River; so he can protect them.