Embarking into Andrzej Sapkowski‘s fantasy masterpiece, The Last Wish, feels akin to stepping into an enchanting realm. As the initial installment in the Witcher series, this collection of interconnected short stories introduces readers to Geralt of Rivia, and themes of identity, destiny, and the consequences of choice. I found myself immersed in Sapkowski’s universe, and captivated by the profound themes woven into the fabric of each tale.
The Last Wish by Andrzej Sapowski
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Geralt the Witcher—revered and hated—is a man whose magic powers, enhanced by long training and a mysterious elixir, have made him a brilliant fighter and a merciless assassin. Yet he is no ordinary murderer: his targets are the multifarious monsters and vile fiends that ravage the land and attack the innocent.
But not everything monstrous-looking is evil and not everything fair is good… and in every fairy tale there is a grain of truth.
Gollancz
Sapkowski‘s The Last Wish invites readers into a realm of magic, monsters, and morally ambiguous characters, providing a refreshing take on traditional fantasy. This collection of interconnected short stories serves as the introduction to the iconic Witcher series, offering a glimpse into the world of Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter for hire.
The Last Wish begins with a wounded Geralt seeking refuge in the Temple of Melitele, where he encounters a priestess named Nenneke. This sets the stage for a series of flashbacks, each presenting a distinct story or episode from Geralt’s past. The narrative explores his encounters with deadly beasts, complex relationships, and the intricate politics of a world teetering on the brink of chaos.
One of the strengths of Sapkowski‘s storytelling lies in his skillful characterisation. Geralt, often perceived as a stoic and emotionless figure, unveils layers of complexity. His moral code is neither black nor white, and readers find themselves empathising with the struggles of a monster hunter who is, in many ways, a monster himself.
The supporting cast is equally compelling. Yennefer, the enigmatic sorceress, adds depth to Geralt’s world, and their relationship forms a central thread in the narrative. Dandelion, the charismatic bard, provides moments of levity amidst the darkness, creating a well-rounded ensemble that keeps the stories engaging.
Sapkowski‘s world-building is immersive and distinctive. Drawing inspiration from Eastern European folklore, he crafts a universe where magic and monsters coexist with the mundane. The political landscape is rife with tensions between humans, elves, and dwarves, reflecting the socio-political complexities inherent in his narrative.
The Last Wish delves into themes of identity, destiny, and the consequences of choice. Geralt grapples with societal prejudice against Witchers, individuals mutated to enhance their monster-hunting abilities. The juxtaposition of Geralt’s humanity against his supernatural attributes raises thought-provoking questions about acceptance and discrimination.
Sapkowski also explores the impact of choices on destiny, a recurring motif in Geralt’s journey. The consequences of his decisions ripple through the narrative, underscoring the interconnectedness of fate and free will.
Sapkowski‘s writing is rich and evocative, with a penchant for dialogue that feels both witty and profound. The short story format allows for diverse storytelling techniques, and Sapkowski seamlessly weaves together narratives that are both episodic and interconnected. The prose is often poetic, enhancing the fantastical atmosphere of the tale.
While The Last Wish is a masterclass in fantasy storytelling, some readers may find the episodic nature of the narrative challenging. The abrupt shifts in time and perspective can be disorienting, requiring readers to piece together the overarching story. Although on the other hand, the shift from the episodic nature into linear progression of the later books in the series will similarly disorient readers.
Additionally, the complexity of the world and its various political factions might overwhelm those new to high fantasy. However, for those willing to invest time in understanding the intricacies, the payoff is immensely rewarding.
In The Last Wish Andrzej Sapkowski introduces readers to a dark and enchanting world where the lines between right and wrong blur. Through Geralt’s eyes, we navigate a realm of magic, morality, and monsters. The depth of characterization, intricate world-building, and exploration of profound themes make this collection a must-read for fantasy enthusiasts. Sapkowski’s work transcends the boundaries of traditional fantasy, offering a narrative that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant. The Last Wish serves not only as an excellent introduction to the Witcher series but as a standalone masterpiece in the fantasy genre.
Positives of The Last Wish
- Skillful characterisation of Geralt
- Compelling supporting cast
- Immersive world building from Eastern European folklore
Negatives of The Last Wish
- Challenges of episodic nature of the story
- Potential overwhelm for new readers
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