Through the Feast, Now waiting for the Dance

Though memory may not serve truly, this is the first time that a book in A Song of Ice and Fire has come full circle.

A Feast for Crows began in Oldtown, with matters of the novices (particularly Pate), and it ends there, with the selfsame character introducing himself to Sam.

That the archmaesters don't want to have the prophecy spoken of and such suggests that my theory about Valyria could hold some water. But the presence of a dragon glass candle suggests that it really is all magic. Though, why couldn't magic create something like an atomic explosion - which is what I think "The Doom" is. The ancient Greeks had steam, so why couldn't a fantasy civilization have something like nuclear power?

As with Jaime, Samwell's greatest characteristic is his growth. Yet, despite all of his deeds and accomplishments, he remains the same at the core, which is interesting. Though, unsurprising. Jaime changes so drastically because his life has gone from one that looked outwards to one that looks inwards. On the other hand, Samwell's life remains largely inward-looking, since he's still very much self-conscious.

Needless to say, I'm definitely ready for book five - A Dance with Dragons - and waiting for the paperback might be harder than I ever expected.