Torech Besruth, Falathlorn, Lindon
2 Yávië in the Reckoning of Imladris
I have been engaged in a line of research regarding Mortal customs relevant to weddings and marriages, and have recently come across a curiosity called the "honeymoon"...
The name "honeymoon" is in reference to the first month of the marriage, apparently when "the love is the sweetest, like honey". According to my research, the period immediately following a wedding is where the newlywed couple spends time in each others' company to the exclusion of others, or in company of others if desired, as a holiday to mark the occasion of their union.
I cannot help but be amused at the concept: for Elves, love is sweet and a holiday whether it be a month or a century. I note, however, this is in keeping with Mortals' compressed understanding and experience of time - they do not have the luxury of the years that Elves do, so their experiences must needs be swift as the changing seasons, for them to touch upon all the bliss that life offers.
Another interesting concept my research reveals is what is termed the "bridal tour". Mortal couples mark the wedding celebration much the same as Elves do, with a grand feast attended by friends and kin. But what Mortals add is the staging of a long journey, in which the couple will pay visit to those friends and kin who were either too distant to attend or elsewise delayed.
This last concept intrigues me. My wedding was attended by friends from both far and near, and I was pleasantly surprised and delighted to greet those who attended. In recent days, though, I have received letters from distant friends who deeply regret missing the event - and this now has me considering a possibility.
What of a bridal tour of my own?
My husband has gone to long, even ridiculous lengths, to incorporate Elven traditions and customs for our betrothal then marriage at every turn, even foregoing Mortal customs for that sake. I deem it appropriate, and not only fair, that I should accommodate dear Cutch in turn. This is something I shall approach him on (perhaps this evening, after renewing our wedding vows...)
