In "The Book of the New Sun," we follow Severian, a young torturer’s apprentice in a distant, decaying future where the sun is dying. As he embarks on a journey filled with peril and dark revelations, Severian discovers his unique destiny intertwined with forgotten myths and powerful beings. Richly layered with philosophical depth, the narrative intertwines memory, identity, and the passage of time. Will Severian embrace his fate, or will he be ensnared by the shadows of his past? Dive into this intricately woven tale that challenges perception and invites you to question: What does it mean to be human in a world on the brink of oblivion?
By Gene Wolfe
Published: 2015
"Justice is a thing you would not have me understand."
An extraordinary epic, set a million years in the future, in the time of a dying sun, when our present culture is no longer even a memory. Severian, a torturer's apprentice, is exiled from his guild after falling in love with one of his prisoners. Ordered to the distant city of Thrax, armed with his ancient executioner's sword, Terminus Est, Severian must make his way across the perilous, ruined landscape of this far-future Urth. But is his finding of the mystical gem, the Claw of the Conciliator, merely an accident, or does Fate have a grander plans for Severian the torturer . . . ? This edition contains the first two volumes of this four volume novel, The Shadow of the Torturer and The Claw of the Conciliator.
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“Justice is a thing you would not have me understand.”
The Book of the New Sun
By Gene Wolfe
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Gene Wolfe was an acclaimed American author known for his intricate narratives and profound exploration of themes such as memory, faith, and identity. Born on May 7, 1931, in New York City, Wolfe gained recognition for his groundbreaking series, The Book of the New Sun, which is often regarded as a milestone in speculative fiction. A master of literary craftsmanship, he employed rich, sometimes ambiguous language and unconventional storytelling techniques that challenged readers' perceptions. Throughout his career, Wolfe received numerous awards, including the World Fantasy Award and the Nebula Award, affirming his status as a luminary in the genre. He passed away on April 14, 2019, leaving behind a legacy that continues to influence writers and readers alike.
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