So I decided to re-read The Gunslinger, first volume in Stephen King’s Dark Tower epic. I have a reason, apart from the fifth volume being released shortly; this is the new ‘revised and expanded’ version.
Most people (including King) agree the first volume is by far the weakest, as it is comprised of five short episodes written over several years, and he clearly hadn’t found his ‘voice’ for the series. The seams are rather too obvious. I’m thrilled that, on the eve of the concluding three volumes starting to appear, King decided to put things right. I’ve only read a few pages, but I trust his judgement. It gives me an excuse to recommend the series again: if you’ve never read them, go get this improved ‘cut’ of the first volume now.
I love those Gunslinger books, too – I have just finished the penultimate one “Song of Susannah” – excellent – and am looking forward to reading the final one when it comes out. However, I may follow your advice and re-visit the first book, seeing as it has been “expanded and improved”!
And, strangely enough …
“See the turtle of enormous girth
Upon his back he holds the earth
His thoughts are slow but always kind
He holds us all inside his mind”
Is the only verse I have ever memorised because it always makes me feel happy! ;~}
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