The love of Legolas and Aragorn is truly one of the most tragic - and therefore most tragically romantic - in all of fan literature, for one is mortal and the other lives forever; terrible grief is unavoidable. That they dare to love at all (in our hearts and minds, at least) is extraordinary. I have celebrated this in two sonnets, the first from Legolas' point of view; the second from Aragorn's.
Lullaby for Aragorn
Lay your head here, my love, upon my breast;
Even the greatest monarchs sleep at night.
Gondor will doubtless last until the light
Of interloping Anor breaks your rest.
Lay your head down, my love, and do not jest
At human need, at feeble mortals' plight;
See rather how your faithful Elf tonight
As guard will stand while you're by sleep possess'd.
Ringed in my arms, I hold you safe and sure
And as you slumber, I shall mourn my fate,
Granted a blessed gift that can't endure
O love eternal with a mortal mate!
Ringed in my arms, I hold you tight and weep:
No guard will ward off Mandos' bitter sleep.
Dawnsong for Legolas
Anor has risen, love, and so must we.
Rather, much rather would I keep my place
Amongst these pillows, locked in your embrace,
Gold slipping through my fingers silkily.
Only in daylight can your beauties be
Revealed as they deserve; your flawless grace
New shown to th'astonished world; your face
Lit doubly by the sun and love for me.
Evening must come, though, and I watch with sorrow
Grey thoughts enfold you and your light eclipse
Or hear you murmur "Mortal" 'gainst my lips
Like one who mourns today for loss tomorrow.
A man lives not forever, but I'll fight,
So long as I have breath, for your dear light.