Friday Conversation | Ep 98: Cheers to Fantasy Taverns, Literature and Comic Books w/ Chris Mohan, Carl D. Albert, Varsha & Jarrod

In this final discussion for the Thousandfold Thought and the Prince of Nothing trilogy, the hosts express their appreciation for the series and discuss their favorite aspects and surprises. They have mixed reactions to the battle scenes, with some finding them confusing and others enjoying the cinematic elements. The character endings also elicit conflicting feelings, with some being satisfied and others feeling teased. The nature of Kellhus and his beliefs and motivations are explored, along with the uncertainty surrounding the No-God and the consult. The discussion ends with unanswered questions and speculation about Nathan's backstory. In this part of the conversation, the miscommunication between Kellhus and Moengus is highlighted, as well as the unclear timeline of events. The repetition in their conversation is also discussed, with some parts feeling unnecessary. The origin of humans and non-men is explored, along with the beliefs about the No-God. The role of Akamian as the hero of the story is debated, and the decision of Esmenet to stay with Kellhus is analyzed. The chapter concludes with a discussion on Kelllhus' teleportation ability. In this conversation, the hosts discuss the metaphysics and magic in the series, particularly focusing on the concept of carrying multiple ideas simultaneously. They speculate that this ability may be related to existing across multiple times as a fourth-dimensional being. They also explore the nature of the Thousand-fold Thought and its role in saving humanity. The hosts delve into the significance of dreams and memories, questioning their reliability and the possibility of manipulation. They analyze the complex character of Nair and his journey of self-discovery. The conversation concludes with reflections on the depth and richness of the series.

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 Tim Hardy and R.J. Bayley discuss Tim's upcoming Kickstarter campaign to fund the production of an audiobook for his book series. They delve into the process of creating audiobooks, funding goals, and rewards for supporters. R.J. shares his voice acting experience and the nuances of narrating audiobooks. They explore the differences between reading and listening to books and the impact of audiobooks in reaching wider audiences. Topics include writing, narrating, Kickstarter campaigns, interpreting stories, finding narrators, audiobook business aspects, creative isolation, promotional modes, and the importance of followers in crowdfunding. Tim Hardy and RJ Bayley are accessible on various social media platforms and websites.

Find the Brotherood of the Eagle Kickstarter here

Find Tim Hardie Here

Find RJ Bayley

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Together, we untangle the rich tapestry of consciousness, the soul, and the manipulative brilliance of the series' protagonist, Kellhus. Can we discern truth from deception in a world where belief is both a weapon and a weakness? Our discussions cut to the heart of the series' most enigmatic themes, from the nature of damnation and salvation to the political chess game of religions and empires. 

As we navigate the labyrinthine plot and its deeply complex characters, we uncover the poignant emotional narratives that give this fantasy epic its raw power. Witness the tragic tale of Z and Akka's confrontation with the harrowing reality of his journey, revealing the human struggle for understanding amidst a sea of turmoil and deception. We also dissect the genetic mysteries and apocalyptic prophecies that loom over Bakker's world, inviting you to ponder the true nature of destiny and the potential of a universal consciousness speaking through the No-God.

Seamlessly blending the mythical with the cerebral, we journey to the heart of the Thousandfold Thought, questioning the authenticity of the divine and the prospect of a revelation that could shatter the very foundations of reality. Theologians and thrill-seekers alike will find themselves ensnared by the enigmas of belief and power. Join us for an exploration that transcends mere fiction, where the quest for knowledge could either be the key to salvation or the path to damnation.

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Discover the intricacies of epic narratives as we unravel the layers of literature and cinema that captivated us this February. Together, we wander through the narrative intricacies of "The Spear Cuts Through Water," debate the merits of magical realism, and revisit the rich textures of "Malazan Book of the Fallen" and "Dune." We also contrast the investment in history books with their fictional counterparts and share our recent journey into the realm of film, seeking a refreshing complement to our reading adventures.

Horror takes the spotlight where we uncover the genre's varied offerings, from Mariana Enriquez's chilling tales to the allegorical depth of Stephen King's works. We dissect the often-overlooked literary quality present in genre series and standalones, like those from Ian M. Banks and Ursula K. Le Guin, pondering the bias that sometimes shadows speculative fiction. The conversation then shifts to the challenges avid readers face when presented with distinctive storytelling methods, including those found in 'House of Leaves,' and the genre expectations that shape the fantasy landscape.

Rounding off our chat, we dive into the thematic richness of "Truth of Crowns" and the intrigue surrounding Jeff VanderMeer's trilogy. As we venture into the chilling domain of horror films, we examine the psychological impact of movies that linger, such as "Hereditary," and offer recommendations for those new to the genre. Finally, we express our thoughts on overlooked performances in horror cinema, openly discussing the industry's recognition shortcomings. Join us on the Page Chewing forum to continue the dialogue, and immerse yourself in this month's compelling fusion of page and screen.

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 As we navigate chapters 5 through 9, our conversation spirals into the abyss of character psyches, dissecting the delicate interplay of power and vulnerability within Esmenet's ascension and Akka's internal conflicts. The richness of this literary tapestry becomes evident as we trace the emotional threads and shifting paradigms that challenge societal norms, mirroring the disorientation felt by the characters themselves.

Amid the dark labyrinths of intrigue and the looming shadow of war, we speculate on the fates of beloved characters, drawing comparisons to the epic scale of "Lord of the Rings." The convergence of story lines beckons, and our anticipation builds for the grand finale of Maithanet's journey, where the final pages promise revelations and the potential resolution of the trilogy's deepest enigmas. Our collective eagerness buzzes with the prospect of witnessing narrative threads knot together in a climax worthy of the intricate world Baker has woven.

Finally, we dissect the etymological symphony that underscores the series, exploring how language shapes the rich tapestry of this universe, much like the historical echoes in "Dune" and "Game of Thrones." As the podcast episode concludes, we reflect on the narratives' dance with history, love, and the precarious balance between knowledge and its dangers. 

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We investigate the complex roles these narratives play in society, examining their potential as enchanting stories for children or darker carriers of cautionary wisdom. Join us as we trace their evolution from their blood-stained origins in oral tradition to the polished pages of the Brothers Grimm and beyond, delving into their psychological implications and the glimmers of hope they extend to listeners across the ages.

Fairy tales often wear charming masks, yet beneath lie tales of brutality and stark life lessons. We take you through the original cutthroat versions of "Little Red Riding Hood" and "Snow White" and ponder the messages woven within about the often harsh realities of life. We contrast the freedom and independence of past childhoods with today's overprotected youth, discussing the implications of these shifts for societal concepts of safety and the cultivation of creativity and resilience. The transformation of children's entertainment reflects these changes, moving from didactic tales to whimsical adventures like "Alice in Wonderland," yet still holding the power to shape societal norms and personal ideologies.

Prepare to be enchanted by the enduring appeal of fairy tales and consider their profound influence on our understanding of the world, our past, and ourselves. Whether you're a lover of lore or a seeker of hidden truths, this episode promises to cast a new light on these beloved stories that have stood the test of time.

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Embark with us on a literary odyssey through the entangled destinies within R. Scott Bakker's "The Thousandfold Thought." Our seasoned panelists, Steve, Mike, Carl, and Varsha, return to dissect a world where power is as perilous as it is enticing. Witness Esmenet's swift rise and the moral labyrinths navigated by Kellhus, while we untangle the enigmatic Dunyain's place in this cryptic tapestry of high fantasy and philosophy.

This episode spirals into the depths of transformation, war, and the arcane as words morph into weapons and holy wars evolve into indifferent monstrosities. We grapple with the haunting presence of demons, the fate of mages, and the unrelenting march of a narrative that carries our characters through darkness and despair. Our examination probes the psyche of the Nonmen, the mystery of the No-God, and the harrowing potential of a Diabolus ex Machina lurking in the folds of an epic saga.

Culminating in a discussion that wades through Cormac McCarthy's "Blood Meridian" and parallels with Bakker's work, we confront the challenging themes of identity, sexual violence, and the nature of power. The rich tapestry of relationships, the weight of history, and the scars of conflict are laid bare as we near the story's tragic conclusion. 

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 Embark on a journey through the twisting corridors of slipstream fiction with your hosts and our special guest, Susana Imaginário.  As a seasoned mythological slipstream aficionado and author, Susanna guides us through this enthralling genre where fantasy, science fiction, and literary fiction coalesce. Together with Paramita's voracious appetite for literary fiction and Jose's boundless enthusiasm for fantastical worlds, we dissect the elements that make slipstream a genre that both perplexes and captivates. We address the challenges of literary classifications, and the implications of genre-blending on authors' marketing efforts and readers' discovery processes.

Our conversation steers us into the labyrinthine narratives of "Cloud Atlas" and the ergodic wonders of "House of Leaves," discussing their power to reshape the conventional storytelling experience. Such intricate structures spur a debate on their potential to inspire or alienate readers. The diverse reactions to these works raise the question of whether complexity enhances or detracts from a story's ability to forge a deep connection with its audience. The dialogue then shifts to the rich tapestry of magical realism, paying homage to Gabriel García Márquez's masterpieces and considering the cultural and historical threads that bind us to these universally human tales.

As we conclude, we muse over the possibility that the quintessential work of slipstream literature is still unwritten, maybe even by someone tuning in today. Our exchange includes must-read recommendations, inviting listeners to transcend their reading boundaries and join the exploration of the weird, wonderful, and whimsically complex realm of slipstream and magical realism. Tune in to this episode for an intellectual adventure through genre boundaries, narrative intrigue, and the enchanting dance of the real with the fantastic.

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In our latest episode, we're not just scratching the surface; we're burrowing deep into the heart of Grimdark's defining elements. This spirited conversation with fellow authors unveils a tapestry of perspectives on what makes a novel fit this slippery genre. From the misnomer of required nihilism to the essential complexity of characters and the unpredictable beats of their stories, we dissect the anatomy of Grimdark, showing how authentic conflict and the weight of consequence create an experience that resonates on a profoundly human level.
 
Intro 1:50 
Faye (Sienna Frost) 11:46
Krystle Matar & Angela Boord 16:36
Peter McLean 17:21
Anna Smith Spark 19:48
Zamil Akhtar 23:11
Armanis Ar-feinial 26:27
Holly Tinsley 27:33
Richard Nell, Sarah Chorn, Michael R. Fletcher, Faye and Slowly Red

Sienna Frost Interview Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1793148/10...

PAGE CHEWING With P.L. Stuart & Guests Krystal Matar & Angela Boord Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1793148/10...

Peter McLean Interview *Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1793148/10...

Anna Smith Spark Interview *Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1793148/ep...

Gunmetal Gods Discussion w/ Zamil Akhtar, P.L. Stuart,

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Prepare to venture into the dark and morally intricate universe of Grimdark literature with us and our esteemed guests—Holly Tinsley, Susana Imaginario, Jozua, and Jose. This week's episode promises to unravel the complex tapestry of a genre that defies easy categorization, through a discourse ripe with personal interpretations and a shared appreciation for fantasy's brooding alleyways. From the allure of morally grey characters to the intricate balance of hope and despair, we explore the essence of Grimdark and its influence on our literary preferences.

Our dialogue meanders through the murky waters of defining Grimdark, using touchstones like Joe Abercrombie's "First Law" series as a beacon while paying homage to George R.R. Martin's "A Song of Ice and Fire." We examine the shifting sands of book marketing trends, the interplay between page count and storytelling, and the curious blend of genres that challenge traditional classifications. Laugh along with us as we candidly address the quirks of genre conventions and consider where Grimdark fits in the broader spectrum of fantasy and literature.

By episode's end, you'll have journeyed with us through a realm where the lines between light and darkness blur, where characters evolve beyond mere heroes and villains, and where the impact of Grimdark on our reading habits is both celebrated and scrutinized. Whether you're a Grimdark connoisseur or simply curious about its shadowy corridors, this conversation promises humor, insight, and perhaps a new perspective on the darker side of fantasy literature. Join us for an enlightening expedition into the heart of Grimdark, and maybe even discover your next brooding read.

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