Choosing Between Lord of the Rings and A Song of Ice and Fire
Deciding which book series to dive into can be a daunting task, especially if you're young and eager to start a new adventure. The two popular choices on your plate are The Lord of the Rings and A Song of Ice and Fire. Both are renowned for their rich storytelling and complex characters. This article aims to help you make an informed decision based on various factors such as completion, narrative depth, and thematic appeal.
Why Read Lord of the Rings?
Preface and Chapters: Nancy Hayes, a seasoned reader, recommends skipping the preface and diving right into Chapter One. She explains that she read The Lord of the Rings multiple times, even completing her master's thesis on its author, J.R.R. Tolkien. This experience demonstrates the book's enduring charm and the value it holds.
Completion and Satisfaction: Hayes highlights The Lord of the Rings as a complete story. Unlike A Song of Ice and Fire, which is still being written, LotR offers a satisfying resolution after more than six decades. You can enjoy a well-structured narrative without the uncertainty of waiting for future installments, as two more books remained unfinished before the author's passing.
Comparative Analysis
Engagement and Themes: Nancy Hayes and other avid readers highlight the differences in engagement and thematic depth between the two series. The Lord of the Rings is consistently described as more engaging and uplifting, making it a more accessible option for beginners. A Song of Ice and Fire, on the other hand, is primarily a political intrigue story, mainly because two key books have yet to be released. Additionally, the last two books may never see the light of day, leaving readers with unanswered questions and a sense of incompleteness.
Moral and Universal Appeal: The message conveyed by Tolkien in Lord of the Rings is deemed less superficial and more universal. In contrast, George R.R. Martin, the author of A Song of Ice and Fire, is noted for his darker, more cynical approach to storytelling. While Martin is a skilled writer, his stories lack the broad appeal found in Tolkien's works. Hayes suggests reading LotR for its actual conclusion and its more satisfying and less lazy message about the world it strives to portray.
Recommended Reading Order
Jumping In: Nancy's advice goes beyond the initial choice of series. She recommends reading The Hobbit for a deeper understanding of Middle-earth before tackling Lord of the Rings. This advice applies equally to those inexperienced with the fantasy genre, ensuring a smoother entry into the Tolkien universe.
Alternative Path: Donaldson's Chronicles: It's also suggested that readers might want to explore other fantasy series before venturing into Martin's works. For instance, Terry Brooks' Chronicles of Thomas Covenant the Unbeliever is recommended as a more accessible entry point, followed by Martin's series. This progression method caters to different reading levels and preferences, ensuring a more enjoyable reading experience.
Final Thoughts: Whether you opt for The Lord of the Rings or A Song of Ice and Fire, you're about to embark on a memorable literary journey. However, for a complete experience, a satisfying conclusion, and a more uplifting narrative, The Lord of the Rings remains the wise choice for younger readers and seasoned fans alike.