Can We Knight Someone? — Intentionally Blank Ep. 189

11 snips

Jan 15, 2025

Four acclaimed authors dive into the intriguing world of fantasy literature. They humorously dissect Tolkien's lasting impact on the genre and the unique pressures it creates. A lively discussion emerges about the rising respect for animation in fantasy adaptations, alongside whimsical thoughts on fantasy knighthoods. The power of fandom takes center stage, showcasing its influence on authors and book marketing. They also delve into the growing LitRPG genre and the appeal of web serials, exploring the future of storytelling and unadapted works that deserve the limelight.

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ANECDOTE

Tolkien's Linguistic Prowess

Tolkien's language mastery is seen as a high bar for fantasy authors.
Brandon Sanderson jokes about Tolkien "stealing all the best words".

ANECDOTE

The Trilogy Trope

Tolkien's Lord of the Rings was presented as a trilogy despite being six books.
This set an unrealistic expectation for other fantasy authors, according to Brandon Sanderson.

ANECDOTE

Tolkien's Naming Conventions

Dan Wells points out the inconsistency in Tolkien's character names.
Some are complex like "Aerathorn, Aragorn, son of Aerathorn", while others are simple, like "Sam".

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Mistborn

The Final Empire

Brandon Sanderson

In this epic fantasy, Brandon Sanderson introduces a world called Scadrial, where ash constantly falls from the sky, plants are brown, and supernatural mists cloak the landscape every night. The story follows Vin, a young half-Skaa orphan with the rare ability to become a Mistborn, and Kelsier, a charismatic thief who recruits Vin to join a group of Allomancers in a high-stakes plan to overthrow the divine despot, the Lord Ruler. The novel explores themes of rebellion, trust, and the complexities of a well-crafted magical system based on metals. The world-building is rich and detailed, with a focus on the political intrigue and the harsh realities of a dystopian society.

The Lord of the Rings

J.R.R Tolkien

The Lord of the Rings, written by J.R.R. Tolkien, is an epic high fantasy novel set in Middle-earth. The story follows Frodo Baggins, a hobbit who inherits the One Ring from his uncle Bilbo. The Ring, forged by Sauron, holds the power to control all other Rings of Power and must be destroyed in the fires of Mount Doom to prevent Sauron's return. Frodo is joined by a fellowship of other characters, including Gandalf the Grey, Samwise Gamgee, Aragorn, Legolas, Gimli, and Boromir, as they embark on a dangerous quest across Middle-earth. The novel explores themes of good vs. evil, the corrupting influence of power, and the struggle between fate and free will[3][4][5].

Liveship Traders

None

Robin Hobb

Robin Hobb's "Liveship Traders" is the second trilogy in her Realm of the Elderlings series. It follows the lives of various characters connected to sentient ships, exploring themes of family, duty, and the complexities of relationships. The story delves into the lives of seafaring families, their struggles, and their connections to the magical liveships. The trilogy is known for its intricate plot, well-developed characters, and its exploration of the seafaring world. The series is praised for its unique blend of fantasy and maritime adventure.

TIGANA

Guy Gavriel Kay

Blue Sword

None

Robin McKinley

Greenbone Saga

null

Fonda Lee