I don't know why people associate being "moved" with being in tears. I never cried, but two scenes really "moved" me, or at least infused me with emotion.
- Noal coming back for Olver, because I have a son and would hate for any child to feel like nobody cares.
- When Egwene says something akin to, "It's nice to know that when everything else is breaking down, two things never change... cuendillar and Matrim Cauthon." [obviously paraphrased]
Mat was the brightest of all through the stories. I know he had the bit with the dagger, but for the rest of the series, he was so true to himself and people around him. He never disappoints. And he was willing to laugh in the face of oppression, darkness, and the Shadow. That's serious strength of character. He gave me more hope than all other characters combined.
I think the crying and moving parts may be because for some, crying and being moved are one and the same. For instance, if my husband is moved, he usually cries; I often do not--but sometimes I do.
And as far as Mat--there's a reason we named our little, undaunted stray kitty after him--he complains, but he perseveres anyway. Some talk bold, but fold when it counts and can never adapt. Mat adapts and gives hope in the end. He and Egwene were my least favorite characters in Book 1. I love, love, love him now!--from especially Book 3.
I think this series is over 400 hrs. long in audio now--not enough for me.
I want to say a positive word for Toral Gaidin--at the 10th anni--some are not really interested in the books anymore--he was there in the front of the line--this is before I had actually met him--with a stack of books in his arms, waiting for the authors, etc. to sign them--a true lover of books, and these books!!!!!! ;b
I'm not here as oft as I should be, but I love these books, RJ, Harriet and team, and this site! Truly.