For fans of the hit HBO series Game of Thrones, the world of Westeros is a vast and wondrous place, full of complex characters, shocking plot twists, and epic battles. But before the show ever made it to the small screen, the world of Game of Thrones was born in the pages of a book - specifically, the first edition of George R.R. Martin's A Game of Thrones. Here are five fascinating facts about this iconic novel.
The Original Manuscript Was Rejected Multiple Times
Before A Game of Thrones was published, George R.R. Martin's manuscript was rejected by several publishers. It wasn't until 1995, when Bantam Books agreed to publish the novel, that Martin's vision for Westeros and its inhabitants began to take shape. The book was finally published in 1996, and the rest, as they say, is history.
Martin's Inspiration Came from Real-Life Events
George R.R. Martin has often spoken about the real-life events that inspired his writing. The Wall, for example, was inspired by Hadrian's Wall in England, while the Red Wedding was influenced by the Black Dinner of 1440, in which a group of Scottish nobles were invited to dinner and then slaughtered. Martin's ability to draw inspiration from the world around him is a testament to his skill as a writer.
The First Edition of A Game of Thrones Was a Moderate Success
When A Game of Thrones was first published, it received generally positive reviews from critics, but it wasn't an overnight sensation. The book sold moderately well, but it wasn't until the publication of the subsequent books in the series that Martin's work began to gain widespread recognition.
Martin's World-Building Was Influenced by His Love of History
One of the things that sets A Game of Thrones apart from other fantasy novels is its richly detailed world-building. Martin's love of history and his desire to create a fully realized world are evident on every page. From the intricate politics of the Seven Kingdoms to the mythology of the First Men, Martin's world is a complex and immersive one.
The First Edition of A Game of Thrones Has Become a Collector's Item
For fans of the series, the first edition of A Game of Thrones has become a highly sought-after collector's item. Copies of the book in good condition can sell for hundreds of dollars, and some rare editions have even sold for thousands. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just a collector of rare books, the first edition of A Game of Thrones is a true treasure.
Martin's Writing Process Is Infamous for Its Complexity
George R.R. Martin is known for his meticulous writing process, which involves creating detailed outlines, character profiles, and historical timelines. This process can be time-consuming, and Martin has been known to spend years working on a single book. The end result, however, is well worth the wait.
The Success of A Game of Thrones Paved the Way for Other Fantasy Authors
The success of A Game of Thrones has paved the way for other fantasy authors, who have been inspired by Martin's work. Authors like Patrick Rothfuss, Scott Lynch, and Joe Abercrombie have all cited Martin as an influence, and the fantasy genre as a whole has benefited from his innovative storytelling and world-building.
Martin's Legacy Will Be Felt for Years to Come
As the Game of Thrones series comes to a close, George R.R. Martin's legacy will be felt for years to come. His influence on the fantasy genre, his innovative storytelling, and his ability to create complex, immersive worlds have cemented his place as one of the greatest fantasy authors of all time.
Conclusion: A Lasting Impact
The first edition of A Game of Thrones has had a lasting impact on the world of fantasy literature. From its humble beginnings as a moderately successful novel to its current status as a collector's item, this book has captured the hearts and imaginations of readers around the world. As the Game of Thrones series comes to a close, fans can look back on the first edition of A Game of Thrones as the starting point for an epic journey that has spanned decades.
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What is the first edition of A Game of Thrones worth?
+The value of the first edition of A Game of Thrones can vary depending on the condition of the book and the rarity of the edition. Copies of the book in good condition can sell for hundreds of dollars, and some rare editions have even sold for thousands.
What inspired George R.R. Martin to write A Game of Thrones?
+George R.R. Martin has said that he was inspired to write A Game of Thrones by a variety of sources, including real-life events, mythology, and history. He has also cited authors such as J.R.R. Tolkien and William Faulkner as influences.
How long did it take George R.R. Martin to write A Game of Thrones?
+George R.R. Martin has said that it took him several years to write A Game of Thrones. He began working on the book in the early 1990s and published it in 1996.