I thought it was flattering! Of course, you might have some ammunition in the spoiler video for significant vengeance. In that light, I would remind you that the message of Malazan is compassion without expectations, with perhaps a dose of unearned mercy.
@@ACriticalDragon We’re still on the journey, with all the perils on the way, such as dodgy WiFi and frozen screens. And yet, it’s those perilous moments that become so memorable!
Now, see.. if my partner was reading a book that makes them laugh and cry, at the same time , multiple times (might have been just me).. I'd be getting interested too 😂😭 Such a great book - looking forward to the spoiler discussions !
Thanks, Rob! I think that’s part of why she finally started reading the series - that, and I keep making all these videos about Malazan! I hope you’ll enjoy the spoiler talk - I certainly did!
This book holds within what is the closest you can get, in my opinion, to a painting crystallized in text. It's impossible not to feel anything. I remember reading this and clearly thinking I had just read the best work ever written in fantasy, but partly of course it's the... euphoria you get from the ride. Even so, I still maintain it is one of the best I've read after the fact. :)
You guys are psychics. I literally just finished Memories of Ice last night, and in addition to being an emotional wreck I thought to myself “man, I can’t wait till Phillip Chase and AP do their discussions videos for MoI,” and lo and behold, I see this literally the next morning! Can’t wait for the spoiler version.
Actually, A.P. is the psychic. I’m the psycho. But I’m glad this video came at the right time for you, and I’m also glad I have some good company in the boat of emotional wrecks!
While absolutely devastated by this book, I like your highlights of the comic moments - the Mott Irregulars portrayed as these shifty sort-of hillbillies who are all high marshals within their own group, and the running gag of Blend always just appearing next to/behind people, particularly Picker, without any notice, had me rolling every time and were much needed in a pretty heavy book. Great video as always!
This was so enjoyable! And dare I say, you guys are hilarious! The way you bounced off each other made me laugh out so loud, that my husband came to check on me, to see if I was alright (I have to admit, I was laughing and crying at the same time, as I was cutting some onions :D ... not quite as dramatic as Phillip's case!)
I am looking forward to the day I can show off the leather bound edition of MBOTF. But for now, I'll bow to A.P. having the best version. I love the thinking of dual climaxes, one action, the other emotion. It is something that really is you want to stop crying in order to keep reading. I think the happy/sad combo is what really hits hard. It's not pure sadness you're experiencing, it's sadness where the light of joy is shining through, and the balancing of the two.
@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy if you see ordering for it open up, send me a ping on discord. I’ll do the same back. I don’t want to somehow miss out on getting it. :)
Actually, speaking of leather bound editions can we maybe get Steven Erikson on the channel to discuss his proposition for bringing out another special edition of the series ? He announced his thoughts on Facebook a few days ago, but I suspect a lot of people may have missed the post because a lot of folk don't use FB. I only found out because it was brought to my attention on the Malazan reddit channel. The more people who know about this idea the more likely it is to come to fruition, and that means a chance for "new" fans of the series to own a quality edition. It pains me that new readers are forced to read these huge books in mass market paperback format.
Finally here. Your only videos that I didn't watch at the time and now going through them as I read through Book of the Fallen. Starting MoI after this video!
Philip Chase "don't forget to like the video" - hahaha, I liked it the moment I began watching it. This was a great video, thank you so much! I loved the discussion about sublime, and I loved the relaxed and friendly atmosphere. You guys are so great at doing this. It's amazing when someone manages to make a book analysis so educational and fun at the same time (and don't get me wrong, I love the moments when you're serious too, they are just as valuable). Also, A.P. showing us the Sub Press to us was very heart warming. Thanks again, guys, and see you in the next video! :)
Let’s see if we can get A.P. to show us one of the Subterranean Press books in each video! 😉 I’m so glad you enjoyed the discussion. It’s one of the highlights of my month, but the fact that people in our community take something from it makes it even more gratifying.
@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy you are always so kind, it's impressive! I believe every single person who gets to watch your vids (yours alone, yours with A.P. or A.P.'s) takes something from the videos. You give a lot of great ideas and food for thought to the Malazan community, and I am forever grateful for that. I would love it if A.P. showed us a Sub Press book in each video, what a great idea! I've noticed the Sub Press edition of GotM is missing from this video also but I hope to see it back soon, and maybe he opens it for us too at some point :)
@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy I hope so too, A.P. also said it will reappear :) It's very comforting to see my favorite character on the cover all the time while watching his videos :)
I hope it's okay if I borrow the word "sublime" when describing this series. That is an excellent description! At the same time, acknowledging the humor is important as you two mentioned. I'm kind of noisy when I read books (and definitely not very macho), so I can relate to your noisy moment. I love that your wife is reading the series! Great discussion!
Thanks, Johanna! Sublime is the perfect word here, and I’m glad A.P. brought it to this discussion. I’m sure he won’t mind if we all follow his example!
I totally relate, I am the same. I had 70 pages left of MoI when my husband came to bed, I was already swollen up and red-eyed, and considering he wanted to sleep, I took my napkins, my book, and my water and finished the deed in another room! Best decision of that day!
I think about that quote almost daily, you know the one. Especially in todays world, even more so over the last couple of years, we should all strive to be more understanding compassionate people. When it comes down to it, that's a big reason that as to why Malazan will always hold a dear place in my heart. I've always considered myself quite a compassionate, empathetic person, but to have it laid out for me on page so eloquently, the power of the written word really is quite a thing. I remember leaving a comment on one of your very first videos Phillip, something along the lines of Malazan getting under my skin. But truly, I've never read anything quite as powerful or as cathartic as the Malazan series. Just one of the ways in which Erikson's writing had a big impact on me personally, there are many. Also, I love how AP shamelessly flaunts those beautiful subterranean press editions, so funny but also I'm a little mad that I'll never own them.
I remember you leaving that comment, Ryan, and while your devotion to Malazan hasn’t changed, I find myself loving this series more and more. A lot of that is because of my reread, but it’s also because of the BookTube community and Malazan fans like you. You might be hearing a certain quote if you watch the spoiler video. And, if I owned those beauties from the Subterranean Press, I’d be finding a way to feature them in every video!
Great video as always guys! I loved that you mentioned the comedic elements in the non-spoiler video as well. It's definitely one of the most underrated parts of the book! Lady Envy, Bauchelain and Co, the Mott Iregulars, the Bridgeburners, there is so much comedic gold here. Also, "Count.........................................................................................................erpoints" should be a meme.
And one more thing, and this one has been important to me. Steve had intentionately subverted the tropes of the genre and that has been one of his goals. But for me, as a reader, it did not feel like an intentional act on his part. It was done so smoothly, so beautifully, that what might be, in professional terms, a denial of the reader's expectations, has the effect of verismilitude. Not only it doesn't bother, it actually gives life to the story. It gives it credibility. I tend not to have expectations when I grab a book, and maybe that's why this style of writing has never troubled me at all. I would find it hard to believe that there are readers out there who resent the lack of proper fulfillment of a certain story line because it doesn't fit within the little box of genre rules. Then again, I have always been a rule breaker too, so there's that :))) The point is Steve's subverting of these rules and expectations, while done intentionally, was so well executed that it feels organic, rather than an effort on his part.
Beautifully said! In his trope subversion there is authenticity, and that has the effect of making his story more, not less, compelling. Great insight - thank you, Claudia!
Wow i´m done, what a journey. In this book i finally found my way to read these stories. Not so much hoping for incredible reveals of open questions and trying to find all the little connections to peace the plot together (after 3 books i have still no idea what the heck the deck of dragons might be...) . I rather live through the experiences of these characters and learn to know them. And appreciate the bits of lore and magicsystem i can understand. I really felt like Whiskeyjack and Dujek who are "normal" mortal men who came to fight a war they know and ended up in an eternal conflict between gods, eternal beings and so on.... But they have to move on even without knowing everything... Spoilers: besides compassion and motherhood i see a theme of ironic duality here: The two friends Dujek and Whiskeyjack: Dujek accepts that for him there will be no live "after" the war and goes on the suicidemission and survives; Whiskeyjack suddenly finds a reason in Korlat to end his career in the military and sees a live after the war. They even plotting on faking his death to release him from the empire. He dies... Gruntle who hates fighting but is so good at it, he becomes the mortal sword for the new god of war and the god of war chose the strongest human to become his servant and ends up with a pacifist how does not care for him (maybe the saddest thing that could happen to a god)... P.S. Do you think at this point i should know how the deck of dragons works? XD ...i know the question is a contradiction to my first statement XD i´m still learning...
That’s a fantastic way to read Malazan: to “live through the experiences of these characters and learn to know them” - beautifully said! Also, great insights into the theme of duality and ironic contrasts/juxtapositions. As for the Deck of Dragons, I certainly don’t know exactly how it works. I’m not sure even Erikson and Esslemont entirely know. 😁 So, it sounds like you’re in excellent shape to me. Best wishes for House of Chains!
Hardly four minutes in and AP goes and talks about the not showing emotion social behaviour. My husband is Indian, and Indians are all about displaying emotion, even to the point where it's theatrical. He has been accusing our nation of being cold hearted, unfeeling bastards for quite a few years until I realized why that was happening. So I explained that not showing emotion and not feeling emotion are different things. That, unlike his kind, we do not display what we feel, that it is somehow socially untolerated. One of those unwrittten rules. But that doesn't mean that we don't feel it. He didn't quite believe me :))) And yes, Steve has an uncanny gift at releasing all your passions and let the emotion consume you.
Having lived in South Asia and being married to a South Asian, I can appreciate your husband’s experience. That’s one reason I love watching Hindi films, which often make me cry. Someone could do an interesting study on how cinema reflects cultural views and values (I’m sure it’s been done). It’s certainly fascinating how different cultures handle emotions.
I’m so glad you enjoyed our chat! I’m hoping to watch more of your reviews too, but this week I’m grading so many essays that I’m not finding much free time. I hope your studies are going well!
Much like AP Dragon said, after finishing Memories of Ice, I explained to people it combined my favorite parts of the first two books into one, even more awesome story.
this book is when malazan becomes MALAZAN. Because is such a good book it ties up previous subplots and events while providing awsome battle scenes. This book also has great emotional moments. I say that this book is better than a storm of swords. Best fantasy sequal ive ever read.
I love Storm of Swords, but you’re absolutely right! Memories of Ice is a fan favorite for exactly the reason you mention- it’s the book where so many realize this could become their favorite series.
@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy after thinking about it i have a strong desire to re-read this in mikes read a long Becuase of the special moments within.
First of all, Johan, I wish you a speedy recovery and the best health. That sounds like an ordeal. I’m so glad our discussions of these extraordinary books are enjoyable for you. They are definitely a high point of my month!
@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy Thanks, Philip. It has been quite an experience. I value Erikson even more: the man is as knowing as they come. Now reading Dust of Dreams: amazing. Looking forward to all you do!
I am guessing you were reading the last scene for the laughing and crying. Had a similar reaction. And had to chuckle when Counselor even said she was 'kicked in the feels.' One question I did have is during the writing and discussions between Erickson and Esslement if one went 'we didn't game it that way but wish we did.'
Anyone: You're wrong AP! AP: Oh yeah? *pulls The Subterranean* Everyone: I yield, I yield! 😂 Great conversation Philip, as usual. Can't wait to see you talking to Esslemont now.
I’m looking forward to speaking with Esslemont too, and of course to reading Novels of the Malazan Empire. I’ll have to keep thinking of ways to get A.P. to pull out his Subterranean Press editions!
I just finished DG yesterday, following Mike's read along. Hang a sec! You guys are doing double speed! I'll save your spoiler review for the end of May.
Fair enough! Yes, we’re not going with the same schedule as Mike, whose schedule is fantastic for first-time readers. But the videos will be on our channels waiting for any and all at the right time.
I love so much that feel of "who are these guys?" concerning the Mott's Irregulars (I love the Boles!) - just to stick with the example of the video. Gives me a sense of depth in the world: there is a lot more going on there, in this "Malazan World"... Is like seen a movie and wanting the camera to stay or close more in the Wizard's Table, so you can see more details of his desk (is what happened to me while reading Tolkien - "the cats of Queen Beruthiel", for instance - and seeing "Saruman's Studio" in PJ's trilogy). Together with this "depth", I also like the unknown "time" (like the time span between those "two" prologues and the "present" narrative) and "space" (different continents, some places only mentioned but not seen, like the Seguleth Island). It is a "Three Dimensional" world. And your are dragged there and things start to be real. Gorgeous writing. Loved the comparison between "Dragonlance" game genesis vis-a-vis it's narrative and the same within "Malazan". AP and you always have great insights! Outstanding video. Thank you very much.
Thanks so much for watching, Franz! A.P. and I both enjoy these discussions (at least I hope he does!), and it’s gratifying to think that our viewers gain from them too.
Nice discussion. I’m reminded of a Joni Mitchell lyric: Laughing and crying you know it’s the same release. The way you top Memories of Ice is by publishing Toll the Hounds (in my opinion). Everyone seems to agree that Malazan improves on re-reading. So instead of calling them spoilers, shouldn’t we call them enhancers?
I'm through my first reading of this book. I want to say something about the writing style of two characters: Kruppe and Iskaral Pust. I realized that they're both written in a metanarrative style. Kruppe talks as if he were narrating himself in Third Person Limited. Pust talks as if he were narrating himself in First Person Limited. In fact, it is as if the characters "read" Pust's flow of thought, while he elaborates it as if this happens outside the dialogues.
Absolutely right! A.P. has a video on the narration of Malazan that you should watch only after you’ve finished the ten books. The channel Niflrog’s Folly has a great video on the subject too. But wait until you’re done because there are huge and unavoidable spoilers in both. For now, I’ll just say that, when it comes to Malazan, especially Toll the Hounds, it’s good to pay attention to meta narrative!
Paused my reading of Malazan to read Joe Abercrmbie’s Shattered Sea series. Memories of Ice is my focus for March; I can’t wait to dive back into Erikson’s world.
@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy Yes. It was a very pleasant read. I have read the first two books. I will read the third after Memories of Ice. The Shattered Sea series is YA and therefore easy to read. The story and characters are engaging with some predictable elements. The books explores themes of revenge and forgiveness. I am glad I picked up the series. Now I need to dive into Abercrombie’s adult fantasy.
@@francoisbouchart4050 Thanks for letting me know! I’ve put off Shattered Sea even though I love First Law because of the YA label, but I’ll give it a try eventually. Happy reading!
@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy Just saw this comment and thought I'd add a contrasting opinion. I found the Shattered Sea books very YA ( particularly the first book ) - didn't enjoy them anywhere near as much as the First Law series. The "diluted" Joe Abercrombie experience just isn't the same ... a lot of his black humour is lost. And that's one of the main qualities that make his adult books so enjoyable.
Glad you enjoyed it! Deadhouse Gates is the one that alerted me this series was something special on the first read. I think I appreciated Memories of Ice even more on the second read. They’re all wonderful!
@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy I am enjoying it a lot. Unfortunately I have this month booked with Elantris and the first Expanse book so I won’t be getting to House of Chains just yet
Poor Philip - being taunted by A.P every month with his Subterranean Press copies. I'd let you read/touch my copies ... us Scots aren't as cruel as those Irish folk ;)
One should never mention cities, especially those that appear on a map in the beginning of the book! In truth, we BookTubers are a bit paranoid about blurting out spoilers because we’ve all accidentally done it before, so sometimes we make fun of ourselves.
good stuff! I just finished DeadHouse Gates and I have book3 staring me down but I'm going to force my self to read something else (I'm going to read Gormenghast & Jack Vance, have you read either of those?, I would enjoy hearing you talk about those)
@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy it was so good I've already started House of Chains which is saying something since I prefer to have some time between books that are 1000+ pages
@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy House of Chains is excellent so far, yeah a massive curve ball! I love Erikson's use of perspective and how unafraid he is to experiment with it. Starting Book Two Cold Iron tomorrow
It's my second reread of this series, but it's been so long that it's like it is my first. Anyway, I wanted to ask if someone can answer a question. Who is the cutpurse mentioned? Heboric? But I don't remember him becoming the Destriant of Fener or that he is from Unta. Before chapter 14. The last mortal sword of Fener's Reve was Fanald of Cawn Vor, who was killed in the Chaining. The last Boar-cloaked Destriant was Ipshank of Korelri, who vanished during the Last Flight of Manask on the stratem ice fields. Another waited to claim that title, but was cast out from the temple before it came to him, and that man's name has been stricken from all records. It is known, that he was from Unta;that he had begun his days as a cutpurse living on its foul streets, and that his casting out from the temple was marked by the singular punishment of Fener's Reve.
Heboric was formerly a cutpurse (hence the nickname Light Touch), and though he was from Malaz City, not Unta, I think the rest of the information in that passage points to him. It would be just like Erikson and Esslemont to put contradictory information in their epigraphs from "historical" sources. That's my best stab at it. Enjoy your read of Malazan, Gloria!
@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy Ohhh, then maybe my subconscious rembembers something since I thought about him right away. Thank you for the tip and the answer, I wasn't expecting you to answer me, it was a nice surprise.
Just dropped a comment without even finishing the video about the Raymond E Fiest Magician for my knowledge the UK version is not a full rebinding and there's a small difference between the Magician to the 2 books Magician (Apprentice and Master)
I read those a long time ago and they were a good read. The magic system in particular comes to mind. I remember seeing both versions about the same time. I am curious how much of those books are based on their gaming or if it was just the setting.
@@EricMcLuen That is a question I suspect A.P. could answer at length. He’s likely snoozing at the moment, but I hope he’ll eventually see your comment. If not, feel free to leave a comment on the spoiler video, which should come out soon on A Critical Dragon.
Thank you so much for not editing out that horrendous freeze frame during which I look like a complete eejit. Always a pleasure :)
I thought it was flattering! Of course, you might have some ammunition in the spoiler video for significant vengeance. In that light, I would remind you that the message of Malazan is compassion without expectations, with perhaps a dose of unearned mercy.
@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy Yes, that is the message of the series... but we haven't finished it yet, have we? :P
@@ACriticalDragon We’re still on the journey, with all the perils on the way, such as dodgy WiFi and frozen screens. And yet, it’s those perilous moments that become so memorable!
I think that Philip left it in because, much like our American treasure Mr. Rogers, he likes you just the way you are. 😁
@@sethulakovic3722 Exactly!
Now, see.. if my partner was reading a book that makes them laugh and cry, at the same time , multiple times (might have been just me).. I'd be getting interested too 😂😭
Such a great book - looking forward to the spoiler discussions !
Thanks, Rob! I think that’s part of why she finally started reading the series - that, and I keep making all these videos about Malazan! I hope you’ll enjoy the spoiler talk - I certainly did!
The dynamic duo return! This made my morning. Great to listen to you gentlemen again.
Thanks so much for watching, Seth - we’ll be back!
This book holds within what is the closest you can get, in my opinion, to a painting crystallized in text. It's impossible not to feel anything. I remember reading this and clearly thinking I had just read the best work ever written in fantasy, but partly of course it's the... euphoria you get from the ride. Even so, I still maintain it is one of the best I've read after the fact. :)
Beautifully said! I also happen to agree with your assessment. Thanks so much for sharing!
You guys are psychics. I literally just finished Memories of Ice last night, and in addition to being an emotional wreck I thought to myself “man, I can’t wait till Phillip Chase and AP do their discussions videos for MoI,” and lo and behold, I see this literally the next morning! Can’t wait for the spoiler version.
Actually, A.P. is the psychic. I’m the psycho. But I’m glad this video came at the right time for you, and I’m also glad I have some good company in the boat of emotional wrecks!
Woke up to a treat!! The dream team is back together 💪 AP has to rub it in with those Subterraneans! 🤪 Look forward to digging in to this!
If I owned those Subterranean Press books, I’d be showcasing them in every video!
@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy content for days just going through the illustrations and talking about those scenes!
@@IskarJarak Exactly!
@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy You should check out the Folio Society for some beautiful books as well.
@@sethulakovic3722 More drooling from me, no doubt!
I gave MOI another shot and finished it two nights ago and LOVED it. Now to watch the spoiler video - thanks for this series!
@@RedFuryBooks Hooray!!! That makes me happy to hear, Josh!
While absolutely devastated by this book, I like your highlights of the comic moments - the Mott Irregulars portrayed as these shifty sort-of hillbillies who are all high marshals within their own group, and the running gag of Blend always just appearing next to/behind people, particularly Picker, without any notice, had me rolling every time and were much needed in a pretty heavy book. Great video as always!
Thanks so much! Yes, I certainly needed those lighter moments, and I think I loved Kruppe’s presence the most.
At last, we get to the book that made me realize this was going to be my favorite series for life.
That is understandable! In fact, it might have just done the same for me . . .
This was so enjoyable! And dare I say, you guys are hilarious! The way you bounced off each other made me laugh out so loud, that my husband came to check on me, to see if I was alright (I have to admit, I was laughing and crying at the same time, as I was cutting some onions :D ... not quite as dramatic as Phillip's case!)
I should cut onions while reading Malazan from now on! That way, no one will know the truth behind my tears. 😁 I’m glad you enjoyed our chat!
This was a hoot! Looking forward to the spoiler video and your video with Esslemont!
I’m glad you enjoyed the chat! It’s always fun and enlightening to talk with A.P., and I’m excited for the future discussions.
Shout out and much respect to Itkovian
We talk about him some in the spoiler video - definitely a standout character for me!
I must have the same edition as you, Philip, the words became really blurry in the last 50 pages or so, must be a printing error.
Definitely a printing error - we must write the publisher!
Guess the goat sacrifices worked
🤪😂:chefs kiss::salute:
Did they?! Do more!
Bring the goats! 😳
Well, if Quick Ben was willing to try . . .
I am looking forward to the day I can show off the leather bound edition of MBOTF. But for now, I'll bow to A.P. having the best version.
I love the thinking of dual climaxes, one action, the other emotion. It is something that really is you want to stop crying in order to keep reading. I think the happy/sad combo is what really hits hard. It's not pure sadness you're experiencing, it's sadness where the light of joy is shining through, and the balancing of the two.
Well said! Also, I’m hoping for that leather bound edition too!
@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy if you see ordering for it open up, send me a ping on discord. I’ll do the same back. I don’t want to somehow miss out on getting it. :)
@@OrionSupergan You bet!
Actually, speaking of leather bound editions can we maybe get Steven Erikson on the channel to discuss his proposition for bringing out another special edition of the series ? He announced his thoughts on Facebook a few days ago, but I suspect a lot of people may have missed the post because a lot of folk don't use FB. I only found out because it was brought to my attention on the Malazan reddit channel. The more people who know about this idea the more likely it is to come to fruition, and that means a chance for "new" fans of the series to own a quality edition. It pains me that new readers are forced to read these huge books in mass market paperback format.
@@djsuth7727 I agree with this sentiment! (as long as I get to order one before they are sold out)
Finally here. Your only videos that I didn't watch at the time and now going through them as I read through Book of the Fallen. Starting MoI after this video!
I’m excited to hear your reactions to the books, Chirag! My very best to you as you progress!
@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy will be leaving non-spoilery comments as I go along! Cheers Philip
Philip Chase "don't forget to like the video" - hahaha, I liked it the moment I began watching it. This was a great video, thank you so much! I loved the discussion about sublime, and I loved the relaxed and friendly atmosphere. You guys are so great at doing this. It's amazing when someone manages to make a book analysis so educational and fun at the same time (and don't get me wrong, I love the moments when you're serious too, they are just as valuable). Also, A.P. showing us the Sub Press to us was very heart warming. Thanks again, guys, and see you in the next video! :)
Let’s see if we can get A.P. to show us one of the Subterranean Press books in each video! 😉 I’m so glad you enjoyed the discussion. It’s one of the highlights of my month, but the fact that people in our community take something from it makes it even more gratifying.
@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy you are always so kind, it's impressive! I believe every single person who gets to watch your vids (yours alone, yours with A.P. or A.P.'s) takes something from the videos. You give a lot of great ideas and food for thought to the Malazan community, and I am forever grateful for that.
I would love it if A.P. showed us a Sub Press book in each video, what a great idea! I've noticed the Sub Press edition of GotM is missing from this video also but I hope to see it back soon, and maybe he opens it for us too at some point :)
@@RoxanaMagdaD I have a feeling the Sub Press GotM will reappear!
@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy I hope so too, A.P. also said it will reappear :) It's very comforting to see my favorite character on the cover all the time while watching his videos :)
@@RoxanaMagdaD One of many reasons to watch his videos!
I hope it's okay if I borrow the word "sublime" when describing this series. That is an excellent description! At the same time, acknowledging the humor is important as you two mentioned. I'm kind of noisy when I read books (and definitely not very macho), so I can relate to your noisy moment. I love that your wife is reading the series! Great discussion!
Thanks, Johanna! Sublime is the perfect word here, and I’m glad A.P. brought it to this discussion. I’m sure he won’t mind if we all follow his example!
I totally relate, I am the same. I had 70 pages left of MoI when my husband came to bed, I was already swollen up and red-eyed, and considering he wanted to sleep, I took my napkins, my book, and my water and finished the deed in another room! Best decision of that day!
@@liviathemalazanpotatonoob5014 My wife is rather nice about putting up with me, plus it gives her more chances to tease me.
I think about that quote almost daily, you know the one. Especially in todays world, even more so over the last couple of years, we should all strive to be more understanding compassionate people. When it comes down to it, that's a big reason that as to why Malazan will always hold a dear place in my heart. I've always considered myself quite a compassionate, empathetic person, but to have it laid out for me on page so eloquently, the power of the written word really is quite a thing. I remember leaving a comment on one of your very first videos Phillip, something along the lines of Malazan getting under my skin. But truly, I've never read anything quite as powerful or as cathartic as the Malazan series. Just one of the ways in which Erikson's writing had a big impact on me personally, there are many.
Also, I love how AP shamelessly flaunts those beautiful subterranean press editions, so funny but also I'm a little mad that I'll never own them.
I remember you leaving that comment, Ryan, and while your devotion to Malazan hasn’t changed, I find myself loving this series more and more. A lot of that is because of my reread, but it’s also because of the BookTube community and Malazan fans like you. You might be hearing a certain quote if you watch the spoiler video. And, if I owned those beauties from the Subterranean Press, I’d be finding a way to feature them in every video!
Great video as always guys! I loved that you mentioned the comedic elements in the non-spoiler video as well. It's definitely one of the most underrated parts of the book! Lady Envy, Bauchelain and Co, the Mott Iregulars, the Bridgeburners, there is so much comedic gold here.
Also, "Count.........................................................................................................erpoints" should be a meme.
I completely agree about the comedic elements - one reason this series is as great as it is. Speaking of comedic, I’d love to see that meme!
Love these discussions
Thank you!
And one more thing, and this one has been important to me. Steve had intentionately subverted the tropes of the genre and that has been one of his goals. But for me, as a reader, it did not feel like an intentional act on his part. It was done so smoothly, so beautifully, that what might be, in professional terms, a denial of the reader's expectations, has the effect of verismilitude. Not only it doesn't bother, it actually gives life to the story. It gives it credibility. I tend not to have expectations when I grab a book, and maybe that's why this style of writing has never troubled me at all. I would find it hard to believe that there are readers out there who resent the lack of proper fulfillment of a certain story line because it doesn't fit within the little box of genre rules. Then again, I have always been a rule breaker too, so there's that :))) The point is Steve's subverting of these rules and expectations, while done intentionally, was so well executed that it feels organic, rather than an effort on his part.
Beautifully said! In his trope subversion there is authenticity, and that has the effect of making his story more, not less, compelling. Great insight - thank you, Claudia!
When our favorite soldiers scattered through the town during the finale to buy time, I got adrenaline rush.
Incredible stuff!
You guys just make me want to dive back into Malazan as if I don't have anything else to read at the moment!
Tempting, isn’t it? Thanks for watching!
Wow i´m done, what a journey. In this book i finally found my way to read these stories. Not so much hoping for incredible reveals of open questions and trying to find all the little connections to peace the plot together (after 3 books i have still no idea what the heck the deck of dragons might be...) . I rather live through the experiences of these characters and learn to know them. And appreciate the bits of lore and magicsystem i can understand. I really felt like Whiskeyjack and Dujek who are "normal" mortal men who came to fight a war they know and ended up in an eternal conflict between gods, eternal beings and so on.... But they have to move on even without knowing everything...
Spoilers:
besides compassion and motherhood i see a theme of ironic duality here:
The two friends Dujek and Whiskeyjack: Dujek accepts that for him there will be no live "after" the war and goes on the suicidemission and survives; Whiskeyjack suddenly finds a reason in Korlat to end his career in the military and sees a live after the war. They even plotting on faking his death to release him from the empire. He dies...
Gruntle who hates fighting but is so good at it, he becomes the mortal sword for the new god of war and the god of war chose the strongest human to become his servant and ends up with a pacifist how does not care for him (maybe the saddest thing that could happen to a god)...
P.S. Do you think at this point i should know how the deck of dragons works? XD
...i know the question is a contradiction to my first statement XD i´m still learning...
That’s a fantastic way to read Malazan: to “live through the experiences of these characters and learn to know them” - beautifully said! Also, great insights into the theme of duality and ironic contrasts/juxtapositions. As for the Deck of Dragons, I certainly don’t know exactly how it works. I’m not sure even Erikson and Esslemont entirely know. 😁 So, it sounds like you’re in excellent shape to me. Best wishes for House of Chains!
Sometimes when I’m reading these I think each book could be an entire tv series. So much happens
Done right, that would be an amazing tv series. I haven’t had a cable subscription in many, many years, but I’d do whatever it takes to watch it!
Hardly four minutes in and AP goes and talks about the not showing emotion social behaviour. My husband is Indian, and Indians are all about displaying emotion, even to the point where it's theatrical. He has been accusing our nation of being cold hearted, unfeeling bastards for quite a few years until I realized why that was happening. So I explained that not showing emotion and not feeling emotion are different things. That, unlike his kind, we do not display what we feel, that it is somehow socially untolerated. One of those unwrittten rules. But that doesn't mean that we don't feel it. He didn't quite believe me :))) And yes, Steve has an uncanny gift at releasing all your passions and let the emotion consume you.
Having lived in South Asia and being married to a South Asian, I can appreciate your husband’s experience. That’s one reason I love watching Hindi films, which often make me cry. Someone could do an interesting study on how cinema reflects cultural views and values (I’m sure it’s been done). It’s certainly fascinating how different cultures handle emotions.
Thank you for another superb video! Have been eagerly waiting for you guys to get to Memories of Ice for so long! really enjoyed it.
I’m so glad you enjoyed our chat! I’m hoping to watch more of your reviews too, but this week I’m grading so many essays that I’m not finding much free time. I hope your studies are going well!
Much like AP Dragon said, after finishing Memories of Ice, I explained to people it combined my favorite parts of the first two books into one, even more awesome story.
No wonder it’s a fan favorite!
this book is when malazan becomes MALAZAN. Because is such a good book it ties up previous subplots and events while providing awsome battle scenes. This book also has great emotional moments. I say that this book is better than a storm of swords.
Best fantasy sequal ive ever read.
I love Storm of Swords, but you’re absolutely right! Memories of Ice is a fan favorite for exactly the reason you mention- it’s the book where so many realize this could become their favorite series.
@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy after thinking about it i have a strong desire to re-read this in mikes read a long Becuase of the special moments within.
@@THX-bz8bi You’ll have lots of great company there!
Well done! Thank you both for this!
Thank you! I’m grateful for every opportunity to chat with A.P., whose presence on BookTube has added so much to the community.
Your discussion is a thing of wonder. This makes my day every time. Very grateful. (Recovering from a double pneumonia, so I am late to this...)
First of all, Johan, I wish you a speedy recovery and the best health. That sounds like an ordeal. I’m so glad our discussions of these extraordinary books are enjoyable for you. They are definitely a high point of my month!
@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy Thanks, Philip. It has been quite an experience. I value Erikson even more: the man is as knowing as they come. Now reading Dust of Dreams: amazing. Looking forward to all you do!
@@JohanHerrenberg Recovery from illness can help us appreciate the positives - that’s for certain. I’m so glad you’re in that place now.
Seems like AP was beginning to develop some memories of Ice as he was frozen a couple of times during the discussion
Ha ha! Fortunately, he thawed.
I am guessing you were reading the last scene for the laughing and crying. Had a similar reaction. And had to chuckle when Counselor even said she was 'kicked in the feels.'
One question I did have is during the writing and discussions between Erickson and Esslement if one went 'we didn't game it that way but wish we did.'
You got it - that is indeed the scene! That would be a fun question to ask those two. I’ll try to remember it if I ever have the opportunity!
Anyone: You're wrong AP!
AP: Oh yeah? *pulls The Subterranean*
Everyone: I yield, I yield!
😂
Great conversation Philip, as usual. Can't wait to see you talking to Esslemont now.
I’m looking forward to speaking with Esslemont too, and of course to reading Novels of the Malazan Empire. I’ll have to keep thinking of ways to get A.P. to pull out his Subterranean Press editions!
I just finished DG yesterday, following Mike's read along. Hang a sec! You guys are doing double speed! I'll save your spoiler review for the end of May.
Fair enough! Yes, we’re not going with the same schedule as Mike, whose schedule is fantastic for first-time readers. But the videos will be on our channels waiting for any and all at the right time.
I love so much that feel of "who are these guys?" concerning the Mott's Irregulars (I love the Boles!) - just to stick with the example of the video. Gives me a sense of depth in the world: there is a lot more going on there, in this "Malazan World"... Is like seen a movie and wanting the camera to stay or close more in the Wizard's Table, so you can see more details of his desk (is what happened to me while reading Tolkien - "the cats of Queen Beruthiel", for instance - and seeing "Saruman's Studio" in PJ's trilogy). Together with this "depth", I also like the unknown "time" (like the time span between those "two" prologues and the "present" narrative) and "space" (different continents, some places only mentioned but not seen, like the Seguleth Island). It is a "Three Dimensional" world. And your are dragged there and things start to be real. Gorgeous writing.
Loved the comparison between "Dragonlance" game genesis vis-a-vis it's narrative and the same within "Malazan". AP and you always have great insights!
Outstanding video. Thank you very much.
Please film your wife when she is about to finish MoI... XD (better not... hahaha)
If I filmed her then, it would be the last you’d see of me!
@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy I really understand. :)
Thanks so much for watching, Franz! A.P. and I both enjoy these discussions (at least I hope he does!), and it’s gratifying to think that our viewers gain from them too.
Nice, been waiting for the next book coverage!
We’re back!
Nice discussion. I’m reminded of a Joni Mitchell lyric: Laughing and crying you know it’s the same release.
The way you top Memories of Ice is by publishing Toll the Hounds (in my opinion).
Everyone seems to agree that Malazan improves on re-reading. So instead of calling them spoilers, shouldn’t we call them enhancers?
I like that! I would even start calling spoilers “enhancers” if I weren’t certain I’d be kicked out of BookTube 😄. Thanks, as always, for watching!
Love these discussions :)
I’m glad you’re enjoying them!
I'm through my first reading of this book.
I want to say something about the writing style of two characters: Kruppe and Iskaral Pust. I realized that they're both written in a metanarrative style.
Kruppe talks as if he were narrating himself in Third Person Limited.
Pust talks as if he were narrating himself in First Person Limited.
In fact, it is as if the characters "read" Pust's flow of thought, while he elaborates it as if this happens outside the dialogues.
Absolutely right! A.P. has a video on the narration of Malazan that you should watch only after you’ve finished the ten books. The channel Niflrog’s Folly has a great video on the subject too. But wait until you’re done because there are huge and unavoidable spoilers in both. For now, I’ll just say that, when it comes to Malazan, especially Toll the Hounds, it’s good to pay attention to meta narrative!
Paused my reading of Malazan to read Joe Abercrmbie’s Shattered Sea series. Memories of Ice is my focus for March; I can’t wait to dive back into Erikson’s world.
Abercrombie is a good read anytime, though I haven’t read the Shattered Sea series. Do you like it?
@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy Yes. It was a very pleasant read. I have read the first two books. I will read the third after Memories of Ice. The Shattered Sea series is YA and therefore easy to read. The story and characters are engaging with some predictable elements. The books explores themes of revenge and forgiveness. I am glad I picked up the series. Now I need to dive into Abercrombie’s adult fantasy.
@@francoisbouchart4050 Thanks for letting me know! I’ve put off Shattered Sea even though I love First Law because of the YA label, but I’ll give it a try eventually. Happy reading!
@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy Just saw this comment and thought I'd add a contrasting opinion. I found the Shattered Sea books very YA ( particularly the first book ) - didn't enjoy them anywhere near as much as the First Law series. The "diluted" Joe Abercrombie experience just isn't the same ... a lot of his black humour is lost. And that's one of the main qualities that make his adult books so enjoyable.
@@djsuth7727 Thanks for your take!
Just finished the book! I enjoyed Deadhouse Gates more but it was still an awesome ride!
Glad you enjoyed it! Deadhouse Gates is the one that alerted me this series was something special on the first read. I think I appreciated Memories of Ice even more on the second read. They’re all wonderful!
Ah I was anxious to this discussion! WIll watch the video right now! :)
I hope you’ll enjoy it!
I am reading Malazon for the 3rd time, I am 250 pages into Dust of Dreams, and Memories of Ice is one of my favorites
It’s definitely a series that rewards multiple reads. Happy reading!
Ah, you’ve already caught up to where I am in the series. I need to get back to it soon
That leaves you a month to tackle House of Chains - piece of cake for you! I hope you’re still enjoying the series!
@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy I am enjoying it a lot. Unfortunately I have this month booked with Elantris and the first Expanse book so I won’t be getting to House of Chains just yet
@@theserpent6070 No worries! Sounds like a fun month of reading!
Poor Philip - being taunted by A.P every month with his Subterranean Press copies. I'd let you read/touch my copies ... us Scots aren't as cruel as those Irish folk ;)
Did you see me drooling?
Darn! I was all set to read this book, but then you had to mention those cities, and now it's all spoiled and I simply cannot read it now.
One should never mention cities, especially those that appear on a map in the beginning of the book! In truth, we BookTubers are a bit paranoid about blurting out spoilers because we’ve all accidentally done it before, so sometimes we make fun of ourselves.
Toc the younger being tortured by the Martin was mental 😂
Ah, poor Toc. In a series that features a lot of suffering, does anyone suffer more?
@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy *matron… I’m almost halfway through MT and so far I don’t think so! 💀
good stuff! I just finished DeadHouse Gates and I have book3 staring me down but I'm going to force my self to read something else (I'm going to read Gormenghast & Jack Vance, have you read either of those?, I would enjoy hearing you talk about those)
Thanks, Mathias! I would love to cover Peake and Vance for the channel someday. I’m fairly sure A.P. has read them, but I haven’t yet.
Finished it last night, got emotional on more than one occasion especially in those last 100 pages.
I know exactly what you mean about those last 100 pages! Congratulations on another Malazan book under your belt!
@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy it was so good I've already started House of Chains which is saying something since I prefer to have some time between books that are 1000+ pages
@@thatsci-firogue That’s an excellent sign! Get ready for something different in House of Chains - every book has its own curve ball.
@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy House of Chains is excellent so far, yeah a massive curve ball! I love Erikson's use of perspective and how unafraid he is to experiment with it.
Starting Book Two Cold Iron tomorrow
@@thatsci-firogue So glad to hear you’re enjoying the read!
Great stuff as usual guys :) Keep it up
Thank you!
It's my second reread of this series, but it's been so long that it's like it is my first.
Anyway, I wanted to ask if someone can answer a question. Who is the cutpurse mentioned? Heboric? But I don't remember him becoming the Destriant of Fener or that he is from Unta.
Before chapter 14.
The last mortal sword of Fener's Reve was Fanald of Cawn Vor, who was killed in the Chaining. The last Boar-cloaked Destriant was Ipshank of Korelri, who vanished during the Last Flight of Manask on the stratem ice fields. Another waited to claim that title, but was cast out from the temple before it came to him, and that man's name has been stricken from all records. It is known, that he was from Unta;that he had begun his days as a cutpurse living on its foul streets, and that his casting out from the temple was marked by the singular punishment of Fener's Reve.
Heboric was formerly a cutpurse (hence the nickname Light Touch), and though he was from Malaz City, not Unta, I think the rest of the information in that passage points to him. It would be just like Erikson and Esslemont to put contradictory information in their epigraphs from "historical" sources. That's my best stab at it. Enjoy your read of Malazan, Gloria!
@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy Ohhh, then maybe my subconscious rembembers something since I thought about him right away. Thank you for the tip and the answer, I wasn't expecting you to answer me, it was a nice surprise.
@@gloria5334 The subconscious is an amazing thing in what it knows. My pleasure, Gloria!
Just dropped a comment without even finishing the video about the Raymond E Fiest Magician for my knowledge the UK version is not a full rebinding and there's a small difference between the Magician to the 2 books Magician (Apprentice and Master)
Thanks for the clarification!
@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy But there was an anniversary edition that was released as a single volume that contains excised sections...
@@ACriticalDragon Ah! Now I’m wondering which edition of Magician I have. It’s been years since I read it. I shall investigate!
I read those a long time ago and they were a good read. The magic system in particular comes to mind. I remember seeing both versions about the same time.
I am curious how much of those books are based on their gaming or if it was just the setting.
@@EricMcLuen That is a question I suspect A.P. could answer at length. He’s likely snoozing at the moment, but I hope he’ll eventually see your comment. If not, feel free to leave a comment on the spoiler video, which should come out soon on A Critical Dragon.
Oh No, not MoI...... 😭😭😭
I’m afraid so!