Single Malt History with Gareth Russell Dan Jones chats "Wolves of Winter"
Oct 8, 2023
Dan Jones, a Sunday Times bestselling historian, TV presenter, and author, dives into his latest novel, "Wolves of Winter," exploring the lives of ordinary soldiers during the Hundred Years' War. He discusses his shift from nonfiction to historical fiction, aiming to humanize warfare. Dan shares insights on researching everyday struggles of soldiers and how he characterizes real historical figures through small yet significant details. He also reveals his favorite characters from the novel, highlighting their unique traits and appeal.
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Ground-Level View Of War
- Dan Jones chose historical fiction to show the Hundred Years' War through ordinary soldiers' eyes rather than chivalric elites.
- That perspective simplifies huge political complexity while revealing everyday experience and humanity in war.
Use Milestones To Pivot Creatively
- Try new creative forms after reaching big round milestones to refresh your career and craft.
- Let a specific narrative idea drive your transition rather than novelty alone.
The War Is A Web, Not A Single Cause
- The Hundred Years' War is a chain of linked conflicts about English kings' rights, trade, and regional alliances, not a single coherent cause.
- Viewing it through ordinary people avoids getting lost in its sprawling political and diplomatic complexity.
