On the Numenorean rescue ship, Halbrand grins at Galadriel eating. Some will insist he’s amused at her ravenous appetite, which is true. Yet this scene also carries an undeniable erotic undercurrent.
Much of it is due to Galadriel’s hair. A golden silver marvel unmatched and drove the boys wild. The very same locks that inspired the creation of the Silmaril jewels stolen by Morgoth and who it is said, marveled at their radiance unblinking for three days.
Elves especially find long beautiful hair deeply attractive. During sleep, the universal practice for protecting long hair is plaits or otherwise contained. Although Elves sleep much less than Men, often when exhausted from vigorous activity.
To see an Elf awaken with disheveled free-flowing hair is highly suggestive of prior sexual activity. Perhaps protective plaits eschewed in the throes of passion.
In this scene, Galadriel awakens, her lovely mussed gold locks shining under sunlight. In a shift that once clung sea-soaked and indelicately to her body. Now dry and offering shadowy curves. Halbrand gazes at her with a knowing grin. For he is treated to a sight reserved for a lover.
To boot, he knows who she is. Finrod Felagund’s only sister. Former enemy of Morgoth. Now his own determined huntress. Unbelievably, here. Unarmed. Trusting. That she is unaware of who he is, likely adds to the wicked thrill of this private voyeurism.
