Why Steven Erikson’s Malazan Book of the Fallen is among the best fantasy
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- Опубліковано 29 вер 2024
- This video examines the brilliance of Steven Erikson’s Malazan Book of the Fallen for its prose, complexity, themes, and world building even as it suggests that the vast scale of the series inhibits the arcs of the characters, who are small against such a grand backdrop.
Hello, everyone! Just a little note here to mention that my thinking about Malazan has evolved in a couple respects since I made this video, and this is because I've now read the prequels to The Malazan Book of the Fallen in preparation for my reread of the series (and, yes, I'm including Esslemont's Novels of the Malazan Empire this time). In fact, my reread has begun, and I have some new Malazan related videos. Most exciting is the fact that I'll be joined in the reread by A.P. Canavan, advance reader for Steven Erikson and Ian Esslemont. A.P. and I will have a discussion of each of the ten books in The Malazan Book of the Fallen over the next ten months. I'd be delighted to have you join us!
Great, looking forward to this!!
I honestly believe malazan has changed my life profoundly. I think the character arc is for yourself as you go through the books. The main protagonist is compassion. Humanitys ability to turn it off was the antagonist.
Liam Carragher That’s a beautiful idea! I totally agree that compassion is at the heart of Erikson’s story, so that’s a wonderful notion. And we have seen plenty of evidence of humanity’s ability to turn it off. Thanks for the excellent comment!
totally get that vibes from the last 3 books. certainly changed the way i saw my on life and how i value people, that's something rarely happens.
I’ve always felt like it was a challenge for us to turn off our own short-term interest knee-jerks and listen to the longer call to common sense.
"It's not casual reading ... " - now there's an understatement if I ever heard one ! The complexity, depth & detail of this series is second to none in the fantasy genre ( in my opinion ).
dj suth Well said! It is the most complex series in fantasy that I know of. Not just in terms of being long and having a huge cast of characters, but also in how it challenges and engages a reader, giving the reader much more than easy entertainment. Thanks for the comment!
I still think Tolkien and his books are superior in that regard, Malazan feels more convoluted than complex by comparison though it's still an amazing achievement obviously.
Fighting Irish Tolkien’s tales in Middle-earth were my first love, and LOTR will always be my number one book - not just fantasy, but my number one book. Period. To me, it yields to nothing in terms of depth and beauty. That said, I’d be willing to acknowledge Malazan as the most complex fantasy. Thanks for the comment!
Then try Book of the New Sun my fellow bridgeburner!
Léon the Amateur Yes, that’s a huge gap I need to fill. Gene Wolfe’s books are definitely on my radar. Perhaps mid-year or late next year. From what I’ve heard, I expect to really enjoy them. Thanks for the recommendation!
After 3 books of the series, I would say that although Steven Erikson TRULY does amazing scenes and action, it is in the quiet moments within the characters themselves where I see mastery of the artform. I see others who do this, but it sometimes rings empty. With Malazan so far, I can say that you get out of it what you are willing to give it. So don't rush. Put it down and let moments simmer properly. Enjoy the journey of it.
That’s excellent advice, Dan!
Good video. I like that you talk about some of the humor Erikson injects into the series. Some of my favorite characters are Bugg and Tehol and Kruppe just for the hilarious stuff they say hahah.
I totally agree with you about Bugg and Tehol -- I love the interactions between them, which can be so brilliantly random and yet insightful at the same time. Thanks for the comment!
The fight between Iskaral and Tehol on muleback...
@@RaysHobbies Yea but he has others too like that Greyfrog was hilarious. Iskaral Pust etc etc.
@@Deuwl oh definitely. So many moments. I'll always love the series as likely the most enjoyable I've likely read.
@@RaysHobbies I don't know why ppl are scared of it. Life is about experiencing things. I call you a coward if you deny yourself this poetic journey. Also, I am a pilot and I fly online too and have a squad, which, haha is ... you guessed it ... The Bridgeburners aka 453.
Just started this series thanks to you and Mike's Book Reviews! I've never experienced a book where I felt so lost and just really enjoyed it at the same time. I've got a lot of gardens of the moon left, but I'm loving it so far! Thanks for the recommendation!
The attitude of embracing the moment can take you far in Malazan, and before you know it, you’re so immersed that you feel like a veteran Bridgeburner. Best wishes for the read!
@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy I'm learning that myself! Excited to see where the story goes, and thanks for the best wishes!
Gosh about 2 years ago I picked up Gardens of the moon. Got about halfway with little difficulty and was loving it. Then suddenly i realized why this series was so daunting, there was so much happening in every sentence and page i couldn't keep up anymore haha. I still haven't finished the first book and I've read many other series since. Maybe this year I'll finish it 😄
Best wishes if you give it another try, and I hope you’ll enjoy whatever you read!
This may be a silly question, but please bear with me. I am a fan of the larger paperback size you have on the right, but have only found that size for GOTM. The other nine books are the smaller size. Do the larger paperbacks have a name that differentiates them from the smaller ones?
Not a silly question at all. The larger ones are called trade paperbacks. They’re usually about the size of the hardcovers, whereas the mass-market paperbacks are smaller (and have smaller print). The trade paperbacks are usually in between the mass-market paperbacks and the hardcovers in price. I think they’re the best and most comfortable option in most cases.
@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy I agree completely about the comfort of holding the trade paperbacks. Thanks for answering. They seem to be harder to find, but I will do what I can. I just finished Deadhouse Gates last night (12/24/21) and am about to begin Memories of Ice this evening. Deadhouse Gates was tough to get through at first, but by the end I knew I'd had to start MOI immediately. The final few chapters were riveting.
@@Gilmatic__ I know exactly what you mean, Gil. Best wishes for your Malazan read!
I never finished Malazan, not because I didn't like it but it just dropped off. I am at book 5! My memory of the first 4 isn't so good now but it sounds almost as if the 5th would be a good place to start back again. What would you advise?
I certainly agree about Erikson's sense of humour. One particular scene involving the Bridgeburners and a levitating table left me absolutely rolling, which to be honest is rare from even a funny book.
Guilbert Maric One thing you could try is to read a summary of each of the first four books to jar your memory. Wikipedia probably has summaries, but if not, there’s a Malazan Wiki, I think at Malazan.fandom.com, where you’d find summaries of the books and articles on all the characters. Be careful, though - you could end up spending loads of time in there figuring out plot points!
@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy I might have a look! Currently going through Wheel of Time because I wanted to read it before the show is released, but damn am I excited to get back into Malazan!
Guilbert Maric Awesome!
@@crmccauley1 is wheel of time good bro?
Best writer, best series. Full stop.
(Karkanas not complete yet).
Erikson is certainly a unique writer, and I'm appreciating his work more and more. After reading Forge of Darkness, I think I understand the perspective he writes from a little better, and I'm quite excited for my eventual reread of Malazan. Thanks for commenting!
Malazan is amazing, and yet, it seems to be missing something... or something...
i don't know what that is or isn't, because Malazan is amazing.
It’s definitely different!
nice, read the main series 3 times. all the esslemont books...INCLUDING the prequels.
Its IS the best fantasy series, but i wouldnt say its a writers writer series as much as an experienced fantasy reader writer.
When you've been reading fantasy for 20+ years you start to get bored with some of the same approaches to telling a story. Erickson throws you straight into it ASSUMING you'll figure it out as you go.
Not charcter driven yet amazing character development, because when some of these characters die you get upset. Or look forward to what they think up next. Im writing this as i listen so maybe u cover that.
Even after 3 reads its still tricky to explain, i find new things EVERY TIME...which makes it worth the read...you will enjoy the follow up series.
I absolutely agree -- Erikson is indeed excellent at character development, and I did get pretty upset when characters I liked didn't make it, though some of them became ascendants or someone else (or part of someone else). I am looking forward to read through number 2 and intend to include Esslemont's contributions this time, and I have a suspicion that the Malazan books will grow more and more on me. In fact, I'll be reading plenty of Erikson in the near future since I just ordered the first two books of the Kharkanas Trilogy today and will review them at some point this summer. Thanks for the wonderful comment!
I think that I will be starting reread number 3 fairly soon.And I agree, 25 years of reading fantasy and science fiction, this series just seems to be at a level I love. I remember hating reading books with more than one PoV, and then I fall in love with this series.
Jason Donath Best wishes for re-read number three!
He says grainy a hell of allot
Getting through Gardens of The Moon sounds exactly what it sounds like. The book is comparable to scientific journal dedicated to figuring out how to put a literal garden of the moon.
It's not casual reading and that throws me off quite a bit and combined with the flowery prose and tarot card magic that I never really got into, it's a struggle to get through.
With all the uni readings I have to do, Gardens of the Moon and Malazan in general is not something my brain wants to deal with. I'll get back to it once my smooth brain is filled with Percy Jackson and Skulduggery feel good
Ha ha! A "scientific journal" -- I like that. I can't blame you for wanting something a bit more relaxing sometimes, and you're absolutely right that Malazan is not a light read. Whether it's Percy Jackson or Malazan, I wish you happy reading!
All, but for that one obnoxious Toblakai...
Del Pollard Speaking of which, Erikson is planning a trilogy on him, right?
@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy I hope so. I'm doing a reread of the books. I loved the first journey but I'm enjoying the 2nd time more.
Del Pollard I’m pretty certain the same will hold true for me. Thanks for watching and commenting!
I’m 200 pages into gardens of the moon. I am absolutely blown away already by what I have read . To say I am excited to read the rest of the books is a wild understatement
My best wishes to you for the series! It’s like no other.
How are you getting on? Took me 9 months to read all 10 books
All time favourite. Remarkable autor, probably the most poetic one I've stumbled upon in the genre.
Honestly I think Tavore has the best and most complete character arc, probably on par only with Fiddler's.
"Poetic" is a perfect word to describe Erikson's writing. Thanks for the comment!
I was thinking Karsa Orlong perhaps comes close to a complete character arc, and in a more condensed way, perhaps closer to what you might see in a typical fantasy book.
@@hopeprevails3213 guy gavriel Kay and Gene Wolfe are rolling in their bed, laughing
@@MrShaiya96 His prose is not at all bad, but SE starts writing actual poetry, instead of just impeccable prose. Its a somewhat unfair comparison though. This is epic fantasy. ;) Personally I think his biggest strength is world building.
I've read the series many, many times.
The series being titled The BOOK of the fallen is just spot on.
First read through of gardens, I wasn't so much confused as I was feeling I just didn't have all of the information, but what I did have I knew I liked, so I continued.
Deadhouse gates fully introduces you to Erickson. Not the story, but how he writes. It's just a slow build up of what you think are inconsequential things, that converge into an amazing finale with the chain of dogs, which is where I became dumbfounded and hooked.
Erickson writes the entire series like it is just one big book: a series of what you think are random or inconsequential or disconnected events, that slowly converge into an amazing finale.
By the time I got to the crippled god, no matter if it was the first or ninth time, I had to take breaks because I would start crying at certain events. The only form of media to make me cry, and I love erickson and the series for it.
Wow! I can see what you mean about the pathos of the series, and I also found the last two books especially gut wrenching. I'm truly excited to do my reread since I'll be better prepared and more open to the full experience of the story without worrying about what's going on. In the meantime, I loved Forge of Darkness, which has helped me to better understand and appreciate Erikson's unique genius. Thanks so much for watching and commenting -- much appreciated!
The Chain of Dogs is one of the most amazing and emotional stories ever written then when you get Duiker starting to tell the story at the end of Memories of Ice you can start to really appreciate the scope of this epic world.
I’m on my first reading of the series and I’m on chapter 5 of gardens of the moon and I am getting hits of the idear what it’s about but I’m still so bloody confused but I’m not giving up,
I don't know that I'll ever read another fantasy series quite like Malazan, it got under my skin like nothing I've ever read. Erikson did such a remarkable job with the thematic content and the philosophies he tackled, i was constantly stopping to read entire pages over again, some really brilliant writing. Strangely though, i actually found the story to be quite a character driven one.
That said, it can be a very frustrating reading experience at times, in some ways i often think some of Malazans greatest strengths are also it's greatest weaknesses. He's currently working on a Karsa Trilogy, i believe the first book is all done and just waiting for the publication process to get underway.
Interesting tid-bit, Erikson actually meant for MOI to come before Deadhouse Gates, he wrote 400 pages of MOI and lost all the work he'd done on it, got frustated and wrote DG instead, i think it worked out for the best honestly.
Ryan Copeland I was looking forward to your reaction to this video! Thanks for your thoughts. I can see that I still have a lot to learn about the Malazan books, and I suspect I’ll enjoy them even more the next time around. What you describe with these books getting under your skin is the reason we read - the reason we need stories! I certainly agree with you about the brilliance of Erikson’s writing. Have you read Ian Esslemont’s Malazan books as well? I’ve seen fewer reactions to those.
@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy unfortunately I haven't, planning to change that real soon though! I recently bought the ICE novels and Erikson's prequel trilogy. I won't make too many comments on Esslemonts work since I haven't read anything by him, but I don't think they are nearly as well received compared with the main Erikson series. In some ways I like filling in the gaps myself though.
I watched your Robin Hobb video a few days ago, she's been sitting on my shelves for the best part of a decade, constantly kicking myself for not getting around to those books. I've heard wonderful things about them.
Thanks, Ryan. Sounds like you’ve got some great books waiting for you - happy reading!
Meaning the 3rd book of the trilogy is about to come out?
Travis Stroman-spaniel I haven’t heard that book 3 of The Kharkanas Trilogy is coming out, but I’d be thrilled if it did!
First in, last out.
Erik Willms Always a fair exchange
Motto to live by, Bridgeburners for life and beyond!
@@RaghavSatya I named my squad that I fly with in IL2 Sturmovik, a WW2 flying game, the 453, Bridgeburners!
Here’s how I describe reading Gardens of the Moon: it’s like not knowing anything at all about Lord of the Rings and starting to read in the mines of Moria.
Second Account I love that description! That is indeed in medias res. Thanks for the comment, which gave me a big smile!
Might be one reason why I liked it, and then liked it even more as I read the rest. When I was part of a poetry group, people were either annoyed or intrigued at how often I started a poem with "And", as if the first stanza was somehow the middle of a story.
Allan Widner Ha ha! An in medias res poem. Homer did it, so why not?
That's a great analogy. I can totally see how something like this might be a turn off for a lot of readers. I think you have to be of a certain disposition to appreciate being thrown in on the deep end like that. Personally, I loved it. It didn't feel as daunting to me as it seem to be to others. I saw it more as an alluring mystery. That kind of thing really sparks my curiousity and urges me forward to find out more.
It's more akin to starting at the Battle of Helms deep what with the Assault on Moon Spawn happening very early on in GotM.
I really don’t understand why malazan isn’t more well known. Everybody who reads fantasy knows of the wheel of time but I know too few fantasy fans that have heard of malazan which I find perplexing. I’m only midway through book 5 and unless the wheels come off in later books, it is every bit as amazing as WoT
Jeff Smith I’m a big fan of both series, but my take is that WoT is the more “conventional” of the two in that it’s more representative of fantasy and its tropes. Malazan is simply unusual, perhaps unique, in its refusal to conform to some of the conventions, like having a central protagonist or at least a group of main characters. Perhaps Erikson’s unique genius is why more readers don’t pick up Malazan, and also why many give up. But those who persist and recognize the brilliance usually end up devoted fans. My take. Thanks for commenting!
Thanks for putting this in plain English. It seems most folks who talk about Malazan just want to flex about how intelligent they are for having read it. I'm starting a huge group read of it this January and this was what I wanted to hear. Thanks again!
Mike's Book Reviews Thanks! In all honesty, it took me a while to adjust to Erikson’s style, partly because he defies certain conventions, like having a central protagonist or set of characters whom the story is built around. Malazan is theme driven instead, with the central theme perhaps being compassion (and often enough the lack thereof). Once I wrapped my head around the fact that Erikson wasn’t giving me a hero but instead was presenting me with a rich cast of very “human” characters, I really started to appreciate his genius. If you don’t mind, I’d love to join your reading group. I just figured out what a discord is with some help from a very nice viewer. I’m a bit behind on social media, but I love fantasy. Thanks so much for watching and commenting!
@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy Hey, we would love to have you! We have a handful that will be doing a re-read and adding the full chronological order, including the Esslemont books. Malazan veterans are most welcome. You can join our server here: discord.gg/FxASdqz
Mike's Book Reviews Awesome! I’ll be doing my first reread and adding the Esslemont books, and the timing is pretty ideal for me. I appreciate the opportunity, especially since I admire the positive vibe you’ve established for your channel. I’m reading your buddy Stephen King’s Dark Tower series now, by the way, and I loved The Gunslinger!
@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy I really enjoyed the Gunslinger re-read. I forgot how much foreshadowing is in that first book.
Mike's Book Reviews I’m impressed so far and look forward to more of the series - I hadn’t realized King was such a great writer!
You mentioned the Black Company. From my understanding it was a direct influence on malazan as well as an influence on dark fantasy and grimdark. Perhaps that’s a series you could do a video on
Caesar2k1 Thanks for the suggestion! I’ve read the first three books, but I’ll have to re-read them before I make a video since it’s been a while. It’s definitely on my list, though. Thanks for the comment!
black company is that shit!
@@infamouscola Glen Cook did one of the intros one one of the books. Erickson has repeatedly acknowledged his influence and was humbled by this.
Black Company is a good read. Maybe considered "OG" grim dark. I don't know. I am just a casual reader! But you can clearly see where it influenced Erikson, and his books (Which I consider the pinnacle of fantasy to date.)
Kilo Echo I saw the influence primarily in the relationships among the soldiers, and possibly in the humor and randomness of their dialogue. It’s really one of the best things about Cook’s books, I think, and Erikson did well to put his own stamp on it. Of course, there’s a lot more going on in Malazan too!
Thanks for your recommendation! I'm an anthropologist and fantasy writer myself, so when I heard you describe his books, he sounds perfect for me. Got the first book before I even finished your video.
Brian N It sounds like a perfect fit! I think you’ll easily recognize the anthropological influences. I hope you’ll enjoy it, and I’d love to hear your impressions. Thanks for watching and commenting!
I've finished The Main Series, Forge of Darkness, Fall of Light, The Novellas and Esselmonts Novels, haven't gotten to Path to Ascendancy but imo no world is built like Malazan
Soffish583822 I ordered Forge of Darkness and Fall of Light just a few days ago, and I’m excited to read them. Now that I’ve got a handle on Erikson’s world, I have a feeling I’m going to love it more and more.
@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy without giving to much away prepare for a different experience. Way more philosophical imo, which is saying something!
Ben Gardiner I agree! I released my Forge of Darkness review a few days ago. I did find it more philosophical, as you say, but at the same time it was highly readable and helped me understand and appreciate Erikson’s genius. I’m looking forward to Fall of Light. Thanks for commenting!
@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy You might look forward to FoL but you're gonna have to wait for the final book. Erikson and his publisher weren't happy with the sales and they put it on a hiatus...
Christopher Suchy Yes, I heard about that from another viewer. It’s disappointing to hear, but I do hope Erikson will forge ahead with it at some point (no pun intended). From what I’ve read so far, The Kharkanas Trilogy seems so quintessentially Erikson’s style. Thanks for commenting!
I’m currently on book 5 of The Wheel of Time, which I am loving, and I think I will pick his series up as soon as I finish WoT! I love reading these huge, overarching epic fantasy stories, so I can’t wait to try it out!
You're absolutely right -- there's something wonderful about immersing yourself in one of these giant series. WoT is a fantastic one too, and I hope you continue to love it as you progress through it. Thanks for the comment!
I started Malazan after feeling at a loss after finishing Wheel of Time in like 2 months and was needing another epic! I gotta say, I love WoT but Malazan is a whole other level of epic. You'll love it.
I find that once you begin the re-read the beauty really starts to come through. I've gone through the series multiple times and each time still learn things missed times before. Incredible series
I believe you when you say you pick up new things even after multiple reads of the series. I’ve finished the two Kharkanas books published so far, and I’ve started Path to Ascendancy, so I’m confident I’ll be prepared to catch a lot more when I start my reread at the end of this year (and I’m including Esslemont’s books this time). I’m very excited for it. Thanks for watching and commenting!
For a man of retirement age such as myself this multi-volume wall of reading seems too daunting for me. Thanks for your thoughtful and informative vids on the books. Per the numerous recommendations I've received from UA-camrs and more I've begun reading The Blade Itself. So far so good. Enjoy your Malazan journey.
Thanks, Curt! First Law is excellent too. I recently reviewed Abercrombie’s latest, The Wisdom of Crowds, and it’s my opinion that he gets better and better with every book. I hope you’ll enjoy the adventures with Logen, Glokta, and the rest!
My absolute favorite series, to my mind one of the best things ever created. A living breathing world like no other.
Glyph the Denier Beautifully said! I’m looking forward to immersing myself more deeply in the world of the Malazan books, and I have the feeling that I’m going to love it even more as I do.
I’m excited to be diving in this year! Should be a fun time
I feel the same way. I doubt we'll see anything even close to matching it for many years. I've read the books so many times they are falling to pieces.
andrew strongman I’m going to be working on wearing down my copies some more in the near future, and I’m confident that I’m going to understand and love them even more.
@@andrewstrongman305 Best series ever written! At least to my mind. I've reread it and I can't help but think this.
i am so envious of you english speakers! as a german reader i will have to wait probably 2-3 more years until i can finally finish the series.
there will be 20 books in german because the bastards split everyone in two to make more money, and the next one, number 17, will be released in september .... -.-
i could read it in english of course, but eriksons english is of such high quality that i would probably miss a lot of things because my english is not perfect on that level.
german by the way is perfectly suited for an eloquent writer like him.
it is by far the best series i have ever read!
It is quite true that anyone who can read Erikson is fortunate! As you say, his prose is excellent. On the other hand, this summer I will begin reading Bernhard Hennen's Die Elfen, and because my German is not so good, I'll resort to reading it in an English translation. So, my friend, in this case you might be the fortunate one (though I don't know how you feel about Die Elfen). Thanks for your comment, and best wishes with finishing the Malazan series!
Hey! I recently finished Toll the Hounds and I stumbled across your channel as I was going through Booktubers talking about Malazan.
The community and environment you have developed here is amazing! I've been watching your videos - from your first one - and as someone who's into fantasy, I've found your videos both informative and fun to watch!
Looking forward to watching more of your videos and hearing your thoughts! And I admire the dedication with which you reply to comments. Thank you, Dr. Chase, for this channel!
Thanks so much, Rohit! I’m glad you’ve been enjoying the Malazan videos. A.P. Canavan and I have been having an amazing time going through the books. You may know already, but we have several videos on Toll the Hounds, including one discussion on the book with Steven Erikson, which you’ll find on A.P.’s channel, A Critical Dragon. We’ve just started Dust of Dreams, so it sounds like great timing. Cheers!
Like how it throws you into the shit with no explanation. There are a lot of Garden of the Moon-isms that are anachronistic due to the long time between book one and two.
cotillion That beginning was one of the first signs for me that there was something different about this author. Now that I’m more used to Erikson’s style, I’m looking forward to not only re-reading Malazan but also to reading his other work. Just ordered the first two books of the Kharkanas Trilogy. I have a feeling I’m going to love Erikson’s work more and more as I get a better understanding of it. Thanks for the comment!
Shoulder pads and rambling intros... bold choice, my friend. Good substance.
Cheers!
Liked and subbed. I'm willing to watch content from fantasy in general, but if you keep bringing Malazan commentary I'd be great!
I greatly appreciate your assessment of the series.
O Niflrog Thank you! I’m glad you enjoyed the video. I’ll be revisiting Erikson’s work in the future as I read the Kharkanas Trilogy and re-read his Malazan books along with Esslemont’s. I have a feeling that as I read more of Erikson’s books, my admiration for them will grow even more.
When you reread this, you will be in awe of what was created. I was amazed my first time through, but the second time was the best experience I've ever had rereading a series and the foreshadowing is shocking.
Jason Donath I totally believe you when you say that it was the best re-read you’ve done. I’m expecting to catch a lot more and feel less lost, and that will free me up to savor the prose, which I already recognize as brilliant. I’ve actually just started reading Forge of Darkness, the first book of The Kharkanas Trilogy, and I’m loving it so far. Thanks for the comment!
im on my series reread as well. just starting starting dust of dreams. even better the second time around.
Awesome! I’m glad to hear your enthusiasm for the series, and I’m confident I’m going to find myself loving it more and more. I’ve already made some steps along that path by reading Forge of Darkness. Thanks for the comment!
Jason Hackett Excellent! I’m certain I’ll find the same when I get there. In the meantime, I loved Forge of Darkness. Thanks for watching!
I agree, I'm on Bonehunters now on my second read and doing the audiobook this time around and am enjoying it even more.
i have read so many fantasies and being a foreigner one may say it may have been challenging . but it was the best and greatest fantasy book . the story and the characters and the world is absolutely amazing. karsa orlong character by itself shows the intelligence behind the writer.
Well said! I've read a few novels in languages that are not my first language, so I have some idea how challenging it can be, but my hat is off to you for tackling Malazan! I've heard that Erikson is writing a trilogy with Karsa Orlong at the center of it, though I don't know much about it yet. Thanks for the comment!
I might try IT in future, Thanks.
If you do try it, I wish you the best for the journey - it’s a long one!
@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy Well, im a huge fan of Sanderson, Martin, Tolkien and Jordan and im a bit afraid of Malazan due its complexity and length but u encouraged ME so Thanks again sir!!! 😊
I don't think you need to be a genius to read Malazan, but I do think you need to find something in the books to keep you going. In Gardens of the Moon I really enjoyed that early scene when Shadowthrone and Cotillion arrive on that beach after that massacre - it seemed like such a random scene to be dropped into. And I found the scene with Topper and Ganoes walking through the Imperial Warren to be really weird and captivating, too. That kept me going until the battle of Pale with Anomander and the Malazan's - after that I was hooked and dedicated to reading the series. The scene with Ganoes and the Twins was also very epic. Without these moments in Gardens of the Moon I would have dropped this series. It gets better, but I still highly rate these moments in the first book.
Well said! I completely agree with you about Gardens of the Moon, which I think is an underrated book. Those iconic and mysterious moments abound in Erikson’s writing, and they are definitely effective at hooking a reader’s interest. Thanks for your insights - much appreciated!
I tried reading GotM but I DNF'd it because it was too much. Then upon doing more research I learned just how different and unconventional this series was. Apart from that I learned that you gotta put in extra effort to really appreciate this series. It sounds like a great series with so many cool things so I'll give it another go soon. Good video.
Jamarcus Russell Thanks very much! In all honesty, I wish I had prepared the way you have or been advised before reading the series. You’re absolutely right about the effort, but I can say it really paid off for me, and I’m finding myself more and more impressed with Erikson’s work.
It's an amazing series, definitely worth rereading.
Would also recommend the Esslemont books, they are great companion novels. He focuses a lot more on individual characters and specific events within the same narrative. His first book was a bit rough, especially when comparing it to Erikson, but he has grown a hell of a lot - and if you like the setting it's just all gravy 😀
Also the Kharkanas novels - those are on hold for now, but I seriously hope the trilogy will be completed soon. Delving into the history of Dark, Light and the Tiste, yes please!
Just pick up everything Erikson has written. The Bauchelain and Korbal Broach short stories are great fun, as are his Star Trek spoofs Wilful Child. And his serious sci-fi novel Rejoice was probably the best book I've read last year.
Thanks for the informative comments! I’ve heard about the Kharkanas Trilogy and will definitely be reading it as well as the Bauchelain and Korbal Broach stories. With those and the Esslemont books thrown in the next time I read Erikson’s Malazan series, I’ve got plenty to look forward to. Thanks for recommendations - very helpful!
I agree the Esslemont book are worth the read also
Fritz Amtsberg Good to know. I’m definitely going to buy them. Thanks!
This series is definitely one of, if not THE greatest I've ever read. It's UA-camrs like you who inspired me to make my own Malazan video for new people who may want to start the series. It'd be awesome if you would check it out, Philip! Cheers.
Thanks for letting me know, and I look forward to watching your video!
The two series work well together. Erikson's books are the huge time spanning overall arc of this time in their land. Many key events in the book are closed over, because they are handled by the other series. Think of it this way. Erikson's books are months of time. The other novels are one key night. So they read totally different but complement each other perfectly. I highly recommend reading the other set of books to fill in those gaps.
Thank you! I most definitely will be following your advice for my reread of the series. Incidentally, I recently finished Forge of Darkness and loved it. I'm trying to get all the background stuff under my belt so that I can really enjoy Malazan the second time around, but I also found Forge of Darkness to be an excellent story itself. I appreciate your help!
Just finished the first book Gardens of the Moon. This was my introduction to the epic high fantasy genre. And holy smoke! It's mind blowing! Thoroughly enjoyed it! Also, loved your book review! Although I have to confess that your mention of Soletaken - beings taking the form of dragons turned out to be a bit of a spoiler as I watched your video while in the middle of the book. Nevertheless, nicely done. I enjoyed it!
I’m so glad you enjoyed Gardens of the Moon! I’ll be rereading it soon myself. You probably know, but there will be a Malazan read along on Mike’s Book Reviews starting in January. Sorry about the Soletaken spoiler - it’s tough to avoid spoilers during reviews, and sometimes I don’t think about something in terms of it being a spoiler. But I’m glad you liked the review overall, and I appreciate your wonderful comments!
Great video man, thanks for highlighting Erikson, his writing is incredible! The Malazan Empire novels are cool, too, they give you a really cool background on some events, and they do finish a few arcs, but as always, they leave you wondering
Jared Bryce Thanks! Any chance you’re related to Jodee Bryce, who commented on this video just a few minutes before you? Just curious! I’m definitely looking forward to my reread of the Malazan books, and I’ll include Esslemont’s contributions when I get there. I loved Forge of Darkness and really feel like I’m getting a better understanding of Erikson’s work, which I’m quite motivated to read. Thanks again for the encouragement- much appreciated!
I’m almost done Dust of Dreams and don’t think I’m ready for whatever The Crippled God brings to the table
Can't wait to reread the entire series and pick up on a lot of more tasty details. Karsa Orlong had the most consistent character arch to me. Really enjoyed following his path.
Carl Lindqvist I completely agree about Karsa Orlong. You may already know this, but I’ve heard Erikson is working on a trilogy featuring Karsa. Thanks for the comment, and happy reading!
I quit after Gardens of the Moon and I really don't understand how anybody can praise the writing, the characters, the plotting ... It is all just awful. There is some imagination going on but the author fails miserably to congeal it all into a readable story. It is repetitive and shallow, and the little setups that he does put into the book all end with such pathetic payoffs.
I find Stormlight to be overlong and in need of a good editor but at least Sanderson knows how to write good action scenes and can do basic setup and payoff. Erikson either has endless setup with very poor payoff, or deus ex payoffs coming out of the blue with little or no setup.
Baffling.
Been putting this off for a decade until I was ready. Now starting it today as I think it will be the best series I'll ever read and everything else after it won't compare.
The Malazan Book of the Fallen, along with all the other Malazan books by Erikson and Esslemont, has become my favorite of all time. For lots more Malazan content, including chats with A.P. Canavan (advance reader for Erikson and Esslemont) and discussions with Erikson and Esslemont, see the Erikson and Esslemont playlists on my channel. Best wishes for the read!
I have officially started Gardens of the Moon with Mike’s discord and am done with the first section! It’s definitely dense and hard to follow at times but I’m still really enjoying it more than I thought I would. The second chapter itself might be one of the most epic beginnings of any story I’ve ever experienced. Can’t wait to continue on!
Excellent! I’m happy to hear you’re enjoying Gardens of the Moon so far. I just reread it myself, and as much as I loved it the first time, the second time is blowing me away. I had a chance to talk with Steven Erikson and his advance reader A.P. Canavan (spoiler free), and not only is Erikson brilliant, but he’s also extremely personable and kind.
My favorite books ever!!
Same here! Thanks for watching!
i agree with all of the comments. there is something about this series that makes you want to read more and to read all the ten volumes. i am reading the second volume.
My best wishes to you for the read, Theo! For me, Malazan gets better and better the more times I read it, and I’ve never encountered anything quite like it.
@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy i am actually listening to the books. i then plan to read all the books on my kindle. i am so much looking forward to the re-read. listening to the audio books just brings all the characters alive. you should hear karsa orlong! most of the narrating is done by michael page. a few were done by ralph lister.
currently finishing up listening to TOLL THE HOUNDS and reading JADE CITY at the same time.
i am a mailman so when i am doing my route of mail delivery i listen to the books and at home i read books. i love it.
take care philip and good luck with your trilogy of books to come.
@@theotang681 Thank you, Theo! I’m reading Jade City now too!
I'm not sure man, I'm attached to lots of characters, kruppe, relick, rake, cotillion and so many mord 0
New to fantasy books. Love the channel!! Very informative.
Awesome! Thanks for watching -- much appreciated!
Gotta say phillip, this was the pitch that made me start this in 2021, and i am now reading it all this year as I only read book and part of deadhouse gates, I will finish it this year. Then likely reread it next year with the ICE novels
Awesome! Malazan is like nothing else I’ve ever read. I wish you the best for the rest of the books, Sean!
@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy I was doing the read along with Alex from tall guy reads and crew but finished the first two books in like 9 days, and they're no longer doing it one a month, so I'll likely just do it alone, unless I can hold off until march to pick up memories of ice which is harder and harder every day haha
@@seanhalpin87 Sounds like you’re loving it - that’s music to my ears!
@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy absolutely incredible thus far. I LOVED deadhouse gates, and I instantly read the prologue of memories of ice, and wow. That was just the most insane prologue I've ever read
Update: I just finished the prologue of Malazan, it's def better this time around. I think after I finish Shattered Sea I'm gonna start Malazan. I'm prepared for a 10 book epic! You defentely convinced me to retry. I found the prose much better this time, I maybe was not in the mood for Malazan.
Awesome! I hope you’ll enjoy it!
@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy I already find the dialogue very poetic like you said in your video. I liked the anti-war theme in the prologue that one shouldn't aspire to be in war. It reminded me of Beck from the Heroes who was aspiring to follow his father's footsteps. This is just the prologue!
Erikson may have been influenced by Cook, but his books are a league above. All time favorite. If you don't read about Tehol and Bugg I feel bad for you.
Kilo Echo I love the dialogue between Tehol Beddict and Bugg! That was a relationship that was full of quirks and surprises. Yet another example of Erikson’s uniqueness as a writer. Thanks for commenting!
Great series but in my opinion the author is borderline mad and by book 8 or so the series starts to become almost incomprehensible. I'm on book 10 now and its a slog. I stopped trying to recall secondary character from previous novels
I think your experience is not uncommon, and I definitely went through some of that myself, which is why I'm reading some of Erikson's other work to prepare for a reread of Malazan. I'm pretty sure it will be easier and more enjoyable the second time -- in fact, there's so much that is brilliant about Erikson's writing, and I'm excited to enjoy it more fully since I'll be less confused. Thanks for the comment!
@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy I read the first 4 books 3 times primarily because I took 1-2 year breaks once I reached a certain book and really had no choice but to revisit. I have a pretty solid understanding and know the the characters well for the first half. The second half Erikson resorts to "being mysterious by omission" so often its difficult to follow the motivations. For example Shadowthrone. Or book 8-9 Icarium. Or even recognizing Icarium. What were the K'Chain Nah'ruk even DOING in the Kolanse? I found it frustrating to be frank.
on my 5th reread of this series. Erikson is a god among fantasy writers
5th reread puts you among the truest fans -- you have my respect! As for me, I'm really looking forward to my first reread, which will include the Esslemont books this time. I'm prepping by reading Erikson's other Malazan related content, and I recently read and reviewed Forge of Darkness, which I loved. Now that I'm beginning to wrap my head around Erikson's writing, I'm pretty certain I'm going to love the series even more my second time through. Thanks for the comment!
@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy - always glad to see someone 'find' the Malazan series and appreciate them. I've given away Gardens of the Moon at least 12 times to seduce new readers but you're right that not everyone can handle it
Rumble It’s a series that demands some investment, but it really pays some amazing rewards for those that make that investment. Gardens of the Moon - what a great gift idea!
More power to you. I don’t think I could ever reread the series again for a variety of reasons
I am very attached to Toc and Beak.
Kristin Ford They are excellent characters. My favorite characters among the many brilliant ones Erikson writes tend to be the ones who most exhibit what seems to be the overarching and controlling theme: compassion.
@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy I am doing a reread right now and including the ICE books too. I've only read the first one, Night of Knives. I liked it but the writing style is a wee bit different.
My reread is going much slower this time around. Crazy. I feel like I'm hanging out with the best of all armies for my quarantine.
Kristin Ford Awesome! I’m really looking forward to my reread after all my prepping. Recently finished and reviewed Erikson’s Forge of Darkness, which I loved. After I finish The Kharkanas Trilogy and other Malazan related material, I’ll start the reread and include the Esslemont books. Thanks for your take, and happy reading!
about the arcs, yes they are covered in the ICE books, the books they write do not follow characters but events. the ppl in them are only in them as long as they effect that books story if you want the character arcs you'll need to read all the books.
that said there are a number of arcs that complete inside the main series.
Thanks for the info on the character arcs! Definitely good to know, and, like I said in the video, I'll be reading Esslemont's books alongside Erikson's the next time. I have a feeling I'll enjoy them even more that way.
On another note, would you say that Esslemont's contributions are as good as Erikson's?
kinda, he is not as good a writer as erikson is(no one is) but he has as good a handle on the world as erikson. the empire novels of his does a great job at expanding the main series both in finishing up the empire arc and expanding the conflict with the crippled god even more.
on the plus side he makes squads that are as great as eriksons and he is perhaps even better at large battles and when characters jump betwen the series you can instantly recognize them - they very much agree on personalities etc(from their RPG sessions i'd guess), on the negative he does not attempt anything near the same 'ambition'(for lack of a better word) as erikson does. it is much more 'traditional fantasy'.
if i rate erikson as 10/10(i do) then Ian is about an 8.
TheRiddler ? Thanks again! This is helpful, for sure. I’ll be certain to read Esslemont’s books in the future. It’s pretty awesome to see the level of dedication of the fans who love all these books, and I’m glad to count myself among them.
this series shaped my life. Midnight Tides is the greatest piece of fiction i ever read
Siddiq Ali Awesome! I recently finished reading Erikson’s Forge of Darkness as part of my preparations for my reread of Malazan, and I anticipate I’m going to love it even more the next time. Thanks for the comment!
@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy Forge of Darkness was a great read. He has a way of making you instantly like new characters. Prazek and Dathenar dialogue had me in stitches
Siddiq Ali Quite true! Erikson sketches vivid characters in only a few pages, and his humor is wonderful.
I am one third of the way through Gardens of The Moon, but I can't feel hooked yet. I am used to feeling instantly hooked after books launching series like The Fifth Season (it's my customized brand of drugs), A Game of Thrones, The Name of The Wind, The Blade Itself, or standalones like Anathem. With Gardens of The Moon, it's not the complexity. I feel a bit underwhelmed.
Obviously, I am a fantasy newbie. I need hope please 😂
Admittedly, Gardens of the Moon hit me much harder the second time I read it. I think you’ll find the pace increasing until it reaches the chaotic convergence that is the climax. It’s definitely a book that I appreciated more in retrospect, but the next installment, Deadhouse Gates, was where I realized this series is something different. Best wishes!
Thank you for the informative review. I'll be putting this one my short list.
I hope you’ll enjoy it!
Well, you’re to blame… I’ve started Gardens of the Moon. I had never heard of Malazan or Steven Erikson, but I was yearning for a new series of books, a world to add to my other inner worlds, to live in, live with. Thank you… I think :)
I accept the blame! 😁 Also, I hope you’ll love Malazan. It’s a big investment with payoff like I’ve never experienced elsewhere. All the best!
First time viewer. I like the points you've made. I think the video quality will greatly improve if you add some transitions so that it doesn't feel forced.
Shamit Sharma Thanks for the comment and the tip! I’m still relatively new at making videos, so I appreciate the insight. Thanks for watching!
Anyone who reads this should be able to tell this is clearly DnD related - often characters get massively damaged (Malazan marines, bridgeburners for example) yet they totally ignore their wounds… or fight till they just pass out/die. In rpg’s you see this all the time - got 60hp and take 58 damage? I’m still up and at full capacity to fight / cast spells, etc.
Erikson and Esslemont did initially create their Malazan world while gaming in GURPS, which they preferred over D&D because it allowed more creative freedom, so undoubtedly there's gaming influence in the series.
Stop recommending and praising these series.
Well, I finally finished the Book of the Fallen and I can confirm. Truly amongst the best of literature and solidified itself amongst my personal favourites, and I cannot wait to delve more into this world and converse more of the fan base. And I can't wait to reread these books multiple times. I guess I can count myself amongst you veterans now.
Welcome to the Malazan Marines! Now you need an appropriate nickname . . . So glad you read and loved the series!
I think the best way to approach this series is to not get invested in the characters, but their overall theme and arch. It's not black and white but grey all over, and while there may be evil and good characters, it's not that apparent, especially once you've taken in their back story. The themes are what you need to understand to fully appreciate this series.
RaZeyLWindBladE That’s excellent advice, and I agree with you, especially regarding the importance of theme. Well said! Thanks for watching and commenting!
Favorite series, hands down. I've read it twice and listened to the first 3 audiobooks. Then they went and changed the narrator and it just killed it for me : ( I will most likely read it again in a few years.
After my reread, it’s my favorite series too. I don’t think I could digest Malazan via audiobooks, but I’ve only tried one audiobook, and it didn’t go well despite the talented narrator and my love of the book. However you read it, Malazan is unlike anything else!
Stopped after the first book because I felt like nothing really happened
It's an unusual narrative, for sure. I feel like Gardens of the Moon should come with a warning label that says something like, "This fantasy series is unlike any other you've read, containing not just a massive amount of world building but also ignoring conventions like having a protagonist or set of characters that the reader follows throughout." It would have made my life easier if I had known all that, but I'm so glad I persisted through my confusion since I find Erikson to be one of the best writers I've ever read. Thanks for commenting!
Everything happened in the first book, you are just a dumbfck.
@@Kserijaro But you don't understand any of it until book 10.
@@frutrace No, you do. There are mini-story arcs and the main plot is obvious.
People are either dumb, don't read properly or are pretending to like fantasy.
The only thing that was hard was Book One of the main series.
Everything else is easy.
@@Kserijaro It has always amused me how people who have to try really hard to prove they are smarter than everyone else end up proving just the opposite. Don't you find that funny?
I'm curious into discovering new fantasy literature. Will check them out. 📘
I hope you’ll enjoy Malazan. It’s different from anything else I know of. Cheers!
There are so many people who give up on malazan because of the first book. I, on the other hand, was hooked. The malazan book of the fallen is a great series. I am now reading the second book and it's even better. Unfortunately, this series is very hard to understand and hard to recomend. For those who are willing to put in the effort and enjoy grand, epic fantasy, with complex magic systems, different races and a rich story and overarching narrative, then you are in for a treet.
Malazan does demand a lot from the reader, but it gives back so much more.
Lots of people have complained about the character work because they don't get to experience all of the nitty-gritty inner thoughts and feelings of the characters (for the most part). They want to latch onto a character (or characters) and experience the events in the books through them. To them I simply compare the characters in Malazan to reading about your co-workers or schoolmates. You learn their personalities, you learn what makes them tick, you learn tidbits about their past through conversations and references throughout the series. But, just like your co-workers and schoolmates, you're never let completely in... And that's on purpose, and that's ok, because Malazan is a book about world events and history. The characters are just along for the ride.
Beautifully said! What I’ve come more and more to think is that Erikson’s portrayal and use of characters is more true to life than any other fantasy author’s. Unlike most authors, he doesn’t give the conventional perspective of one character or set of characters being special and more important than all others.
I've literally just read the prologue and chapter 1 of Gardens of the Moon and I'm already invested.
That’s an excellent sign for things to come!
Is there people who read Steven Erik sons and Ian c essalmorts books and book of the fallen and read multiple books challenge thing, I’m not sure there to start reading multiple books while I continue reading malazan book of the fallen or just go one at a time read this series right throught before moving on because I don’t whant to confuse myself.
If you want to read all the books in the Malazan world, the most common advice is to read them all in publication order. You can also read the various series one at a time if you prefer.
This is one of the only fantasy book series I never finished. I loved the early books (and re-read them several times). I read Ian's Crimson Guard books too, at least the first couple. But by the time the series had wrapped up the plot with Tehol and Bugg the whole thing felt like it lost steam. The story of the Bridgeburners, which originally was the one that hooked me on the series, became uninteresting to the point where I stopped reading entirely. Never read Crippled God, no idea how it ends and I can't find it in me to go back to re-read to finish it now. He took what were my favorite characters and made them boring and kept throwing in curveballs rather than paying off threads he had been weaving for many books.
I will say that few stories were as heartbreaking as the one between Felisin and Tavore =\
dmann05 That’s a fair observation to make, I think, and your experience is probably a result of Erikson defying the conventions. I admit I was confused as I gradually discovered that the Bridgeburners were not the “heroes” of the story. In my mind, it has no protagonist but is instead theme driven. It took me a while to wrap my head around that, but once I let go of the idea of having a main character or group of characters, I started appreciating the story more. The trouble is, a lot of people read fantasy because they like following along with a protagonist or set of main characters. It’s a vicarious sort of journey. Erikson does something different by relentlessly and brilliantly following the theme, which I believe is compassion, all while visiting characters as they’re needed. That’s my take, at least. Thanks for watching and commenting!
I think daylight is the best light to read with.
Oh goodness. We have a lot of similarities! I love this series, and I am currently on Midnight Tides. Subbed, and excited to watch your other videos!
Awesome! I’m relatively new to UA-cam, honestly, but I can see how great it can be to listen to people with similar interests and learn from them. Thanks for watching this one, and I’ll be looking out for your assessment of Malazan!
Philip Chase I’m definitely going to be doing a video series on them. I can’t wait! I’m new-ish to UA-cam too, and it’s so nice to build a community with other readers. ❤️
This is just one of the best series I've ever read. Reading the final book a few weeks back, it wasn't at all what I expected to happen, but I was satisfied with the ending. The more I thought about it, the more satisfied I became. Erikson added things in that final book that I'd not thought about for 2, maybe 3 books, but those things had such a pivotal role in the ending. It all just makes sense and kind of clicks together.
Never have I read such mind blowing, epic, grand storytelling or scenes. The battles in Memories of Ice, the convergence in Toll the Hounds, Lightfall, Korabas, and so many others in The Crippled God.
I could go on and on about this series forever. Oh also, I believe Tavore to be one of the best fantasy characters ever written. Great video!
sneezy deezy mc deluxe Thank you! I completely agree with you about The Crippled God. I, for one, was not predicting that ending, but it now seems like such a fitting way to finish. You said it well! Thanks again for watching and for the comment!
So excited to finally start this soon. Really looking forward to this series.
I hope you’ll love it!
this isn't an exaggeration, but the book has ruined my novel books consumption. i have never read anything as good as that series, before or since. there are good books out there, like dan simmons hyperion or the heechee series but non has able to combine seemingly random story arc together into a grand story arc based on fate, and conspiracy.
There’s nothing quite like Malazan! At this point, when I’ve actually read nearly everything by both authors and I’m more than halfway through my reread of MBOTF, I rate the books of the Malazan world the greatest achievement in fantasy.
Only on Midnight Tides but Malazan is quenching a thirst I didn't know I had
Almost halfway there! I love Midnight Tides, by the way, and The Bonehunters just blew me away.
This is probably the best explanatory video to get into this series. Great job Philip.
Thank you for the kind words!
@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy Keep up the great work, looking forward to starting the Edan Trilogy next year or maybe around Christmas. Malazan is scheduled around summer 2024.
@@vermadheeraj29 My deepest thanks for giving The Edan Trilogy a try!
@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy I am always up for great fantasy, and with your passion I am certain it's going to be a hell of a ride. Keep making stories.
There's nothing more enjoyable than hearing someone's thoughts on this series, both the positive and negative.
hank france Thank you! I’m glad you enjoyed my thoughts, which are evolving as I get to know Erikson’s work better. Just finished Forge of Darkness from The Kharkanas Trilogy and was very impressed. After prepping by reading more of Erikson’s books, I intend to reread Malazan. Thanks for the comment!
I am fascinated by the idea that this series was born out of a D&D game, that campaign would have been epic.
I wish I had been a fly in the wall during some of those gaming sessions!
@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy Same here, Sadly D&D is not a thing here where I'm from, maybe if it does become popular some day, I would love recreate that magical campaign in my own way.
After pushing myself to finish Deadhouse Gates I found him to be one of the worst fantasy authors. Maybe it gets better later? He just doesn't flesh out characters very well at all and I never could care about anything going on since they never really came alive. They were like cardboard cutouts with names and ranks. Also the plot wasn't interesting either. I usually don't quit a series but this is one of the few I felt fine quitting.
I think I went through some similar experiences while reading Malazan. Though I find his characters to be beautifully sketched, I was confused and a bit frustrated at how they would disappear as the books went somewhere else. The thing I had to adjust to was the fact that Erikson doesn't conform to the standard practice of building a story around a character or key set of characters. Instead, theme drives the story, and the characters serve the theme. I believe that Erikson has said that compassion (and perhaps the lack of it) is one of the driving themes of the series. I think I'm going to enjoy the series even more the second time I read it since I'll be prepared for Erikson's unique, and in my opinion, brilliant style. Thanks for the comment!
Stick to Game of Thrones pleb.
@@Kserijaro Oh I will stick to many fantasy authors superior to Erikson. There are so many.
@@trencher7 Sure, fucktard ;D
@@KserijaroWow I hit a nerve. Are you in love with Erikson? So sorry.
only criticism i have is the first few books throw way too many characters at you its literally impossible to know or care about many of them until you get a bigger picture of events later that is a big hurdle to overcome
It’s definitely a lot to take in! For me, the investment paid off in a big way, and it’s still paying off. Thanks for watching!
Having read the series twice now I'm amazed at how many characters I truly love and care about. Then you have the story. Best series ever
I've been reading this for slightly more than year and a half now - the volume may be daunting, but it's so worth it. I already know that when I finish these I'll miss them and will probably start re-reading them
oh and for those who are thinking about picking these up, fair warning: Gardens of the Moon is probably *the* hardest case of in medias res I've ever seen
Maria Ludlow Beautifully said! I’m definitely looking forward to my reread of the series. Yes, you can tell right from the start of Gardens of the Moon that Erikson won’t be holding your hand! Thanks for watching and commenting!
Gene Wolfe is another I would characterize as a writer’s writer. What a great description! Thank you.
Harrison Williams Another viewer mentioned Gene Wolfe, so it seems I really need to check out his books! Thanks for watching and commenting!
His work is generally shorter than contemporary fantasy, but more challenging, of a much higher quality, more rewarding and more memorable (haunting?). I’d recommend Book of the New Sun or Fifth Head of Cerberus as a good starting place.
I tried reading gardens of the moon a few months back when I started Wheel of Time and didn’t care for it. But I’m thinking about giving it another chance when I finish wot, feels like I missed something
Both Wheel of Time and Malazan are beloved series for great reasons, and both are massive series. One big difference is that Wheel of Time does a great job of fulfilling the usual expectations of a fantasy series, whereas Malazan subverts many of those same expectations. I hope you’ll enjoy it on the second try!
@@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy yeah I adore Wheel of Time. It’s probably my favorite fantasy series I’ve read besides ASOIAF, hoping Malazan will impress me on a second try!
Beautiful prose. Some books you read to escape reality. Malazan makes so feel every emotion and you feel better for it. I’ve laughed out loud (bugg and tehol), cried(fiddler and whiskeyjack), and felt extreme hatred(damn you high king). Read every book about Malazan three times and I’m ready for the fourth in 2021.
So true! The prose is honestly some of the best I’ve read. I’m starting my reread (this time including Esslemont’s books) at the end of this year. I’ve read the two Kharkanas books published so far, and I’ve started Path to Ascendancy to prepare. I’ll be more than ready this time!
Yeah both authors buck top tier fantasy but there is fare more than just the 6 extra books
No doubt! I’ve read all the other series now (this video is a couple years old). There’s nothing like Malazan!
My all time favorite as well. So great. Ians series is good as well but to short
r f Thanks! I’m prepping for my reread of Malazan these days. I’ll be done with the two published Kharkanas books soon, and then I’ll tackle Path to Ascendancy. And I’ll include Esslemont’s Malazan books this time too. Loads of reading to look forward to!
Trying to get into it, first book is a bitch though.
It’s confusing as hell at first. At least, it sure was for me. I’m my case, the payoff was worth it, and I hope the same will be the case for you. If I can offer some advice, I’d say just accept that you’ll be confused for a while and try to enjoy the moment. Best wishes!
It certainly isnt for casual reading haha! I have been listening to the audiobooks on my commute, but I often have to go to the blog "Malazan, reread of the Fallen" to properly understand the significance of some plot events and characters. Thank god for those bloggers. A truly fantastic saga and I am nearly done, on Toll the Hounds right now. I cant wait for the convergence in this book!
Hatham Rahman Awesome! I wish I had known about the blog - it probably would’ve made my life easier too! It definitely is a fantastic saga. Thanks for the comment!
I always recommend Tor's Reread of the Fallen to people who are interested, but intimidated by the MBotF. I had my 70 y/o mother read the series with Tor's Reread as a companion, and she loved it.
frutrace Excellent idea - thanks for suggesting it!
is the language of the books easy to read for a non native english reader ?
Erikson’s prose has incredible range, capable of evoking beauty, horror, tragedy, comedy, pathos and stoicism. Overall, while it’s not deliberately difficult, I would not call it easy to read. It asks for more of the reader than most other genre fiction tends to. I hope that helps, Kaif, and best wishes!
this is making me feel excited to read this series. In 5 months or less ill make sure that i have read this series
I hope you’ll enjoy it!