The Wheel of Time has got to be one of the most frustrating series of books ever written. The main reason, of course, is that it's been almost 20 years since the first book was written. And, somewhere between books four and ten the plot became almost too complex and Robert Jordan's writing, so fresh and vivid through the early books, become repetitive. And his women became annoying beyond all reason.
But it's only frustrating because I love these books so much. And I can accept these weaknesses because, besides these few minor flaws, the books are brilliant and compelling. This is my favorite fantasy series in all of contemporary fantasy.
I say all this to illustrate the monumental task given to Brandon Sanderson when Jordan's editor/wife asked Sanderson (due to Jordan's death) to finish the most complex fantasy epic that I know of.
Now with Sanderson we've reached book 12, The Gathering Storm. There are still two books to go, but suddenly the series feels like it's moving again. In fact, I could argue that Sanderson has written book 12 true to Jordan's style while softening the many flaws that were contained in the previous books. In a sense Sanderson could save the series from being overwhelmed by its flaws. (Thank you Brandon Sanderson for not making me read anything about Elayne and limiting the chapters devoted to Perrin and his stupid wife). Things seem a bit more streamlined. Not to say that The Gathering Storm isn't complex. Every chapter seems to be about different characters, but fortunately they all seem to have a purpose. Which hasn't happened so much lately.
I don't know if Sanderson will be able to fully close The Wheel of Time. Jordan had far too many subplots (viewings/dreams/prophesies, etc. . .) for anybody to accomplish that. But, so far, Sanderson has done far better than anybody could have expected. Jordan's editor/wife made the right choice.
Friday, October 30, 2009
Monday, October 12, 2009
Do you feel Safer?
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