What do you think?
Rate this book
The History of the Runestaff #4
The Runestaff
As it is written: "Those who swear by the Runestaff must then benefit or suffer from the consequences of the fixed pattern of destiny that they set in motion." And Baron Meliadus of Kroiden had sworn such an oath, had sworn vengeance against all of Castle Brass, had sworn that Yisselda, Count Brass's daughter, would be his. On that day, many months earlier, he had fixed the pattern of fate; a pattern that had involved him in strange destructive schemes, that had involved Dorian Hawkmoon in wild and uncanny adventures in distant places, and that was now nearing its terrible resolution.
Cover illustration: Bob Haberfield
Cover illustration: Bob Haberfield
143 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1969
21 people are currently reading
809 people want to read
About the author
Michael Moorcock
1,207 books3,746 followersMichael John Moorcock is an English writer primarily of science fiction and fantasy who has also published a number of literary novels.
Moorcock has mentioned The Gods of Mars by Edgar Rice Burroughs, The Apple Cart by George Bernard Shaw and The Constable of St. Nicholas by Edward Lester Arnold as the first three books which captured his imagination. He became editor of Tarzan Adventures in 1956, at the age of sixteen, and later moved on to edit Sexton Blake Library. As editor of the controversial British science fiction magazine New Worlds, from May 1964 until March 1971 and then again from 1976 to 1996, Moorcock fostered the development of the science fiction "New Wave" in the UK and indirectly in the United States. His serialization of Norman Spinrad's Bug Jack Barron was notorious for causing British MPs to condemn in Parliament the Arts Council's funding of the magazine.
During this time, he occasionally wrote under the pseudonym of "James Colvin," a "house pseudonym" used by other critics on New Worlds. A spoof obituary of Colvin appeared in New Worlds #197 (January 1970), written by "William Barclay" (another Moorcock pseudonym). Moorcock, indeed, makes much use of the initials "JC", and not entirely coincidentally these are also the initials of Jesus Christ, the subject of his 1967 Nebula award-winning novella Behold the Man, which tells the story of Karl Glogauer, a time-traveller who takes on the role of Christ. They are also the initials of various "Eternal Champion" Moorcock characters such as Jerry Cornelius, Jerry Cornell and Jherek Carnelian. In more recent years, Moorcock has taken to using "Warwick Colvin, Jr." as yet another pseudonym, particularly in his Second Ether fiction.
Moorcock has mentioned The Gods of Mars by Edgar Rice Burroughs, The Apple Cart by George Bernard Shaw and The Constable of St. Nicholas by Edward Lester Arnold as the first three books which captured his imagination. He became editor of Tarzan Adventures in 1956, at the age of sixteen, and later moved on to edit Sexton Blake Library. As editor of the controversial British science fiction magazine New Worlds, from May 1964 until March 1971 and then again from 1976 to 1996, Moorcock fostered the development of the science fiction "New Wave" in the UK and indirectly in the United States. His serialization of Norman Spinrad's Bug Jack Barron was notorious for causing British MPs to condemn in Parliament the Arts Council's funding of the magazine.
During this time, he occasionally wrote under the pseudonym of "James Colvin," a "house pseudonym" used by other critics on New Worlds. A spoof obituary of Colvin appeared in New Worlds #197 (January 1970), written by "William Barclay" (another Moorcock pseudonym). Moorcock, indeed, makes much use of the initials "JC", and not entirely coincidentally these are also the initials of Jesus Christ, the subject of his 1967 Nebula award-winning novella Behold the Man, which tells the story of Karl Glogauer, a time-traveller who takes on the role of Christ. They are also the initials of various "Eternal Champion" Moorcock characters such as Jerry Cornelius, Jerry Cornell and Jherek Carnelian. In more recent years, Moorcock has taken to using "Warwick Colvin, Jr." as yet another pseudonym, particularly in his Second Ether fiction.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 100 reviews
August 5, 2020
The Dorian Hawkmoon Runestaff books, in which he continually opposed the evil Dark Empire, Granbretan and its minions, when all he really wanted to do was just go home and spend time with his family, are among Moorcock's best. He took elements of science fiction, high fantasy, sword & sorcery adventure, and, along with liberal infusions of background and character and events from many of his other works, blended it together into a delightful tapestry set within his Eternal Champion multiverse framework. This is the final volume of the History of the Runestaff, and provides a fitting and satisfying conclusion to the series, with both victory and loss, and triumph and tragedy enough to satisfy both fans of Lord of the Rings and Game of Thrones. (Hawkmoon didn't settle into retirement for long, however, as there was another trilogy of adventures looming unbeknownst to him (and to his readers and perhaps even to Moorcock himself when this one was initially published in 1969) in his near future, but for now, at least, there was the long-awaited resolution.)
September 21, 2021
Overall, I believe History of the Runestaff to be among my least favourite Moorcock works. The story is fast-paced and the setting possesses its share of imagination, but the prose is somewhat stilted even by his standards, the characters especially shallow, with only one or two bright spots in this regard. The finale of this book felt rather rushed, too.
But even the worst of Moorcock is good. If you've already read Elrics and Corums and Erekosës and others, you might as well complete the set.
But even the worst of Moorcock is good. If you've already read Elrics and Corums and Erekosës and others, you might as well complete the set.
February 5, 2019
Another Eternal Champion incarnation from Moorcock. After Elric and Corum Hawkmoon is great. Good read and story. Very recommended.
May 3, 2023
I really enjoy these fast paced series from Moorcock. 4 thin books where a ton of stuff happens. Anyone who likes fast paced heroic fantasy should enjoy Hawkmoon and his various companions battling the dark Empire from a distant post apocalyptic Britain.
May 22, 2017
It was a trudge through mud sometimes, but I finished this quartet. The two thoughts foremost in my mind at this point is that I wanted to like this series more than I did, and I wanted to be more impressed by Moorcock. This is the first, and I doubt the last, time that I've developed high expectations because of what others have said/written about an author (or movie, etc).
My guess, looking at his bibliography, is that this was not only early in Moorcock's career, but also in his development of the Eternal Champion concept. The Champion and runestaff are lightly touched upon, and frankly so are the characters. I think you could similair things with other writers (Tamora Pearce) who first time out was ok and developed into very good/outstanding authors over time.
This not fantasy where you should expect a lot of characterization. Actually, characterization is about zero, and at the times it feels like the villains are standing there twirling their mustache when talking (but in a good, fun, and enjoyable way for me as a reader).
As in most fantasy we get the final battle, and thank you Moorcock for keeping it brief and told well. I don't need tons of description of weapons and fighting, I have imagination (I say this while pointing a finger at Greg Iles and Clive Cussler).
I'm tempted enough to want to try Corum or Elric, but I need a break from Moorcock for now.
My guess, looking at his bibliography, is that this was not only early in Moorcock's career, but also in his development of the Eternal Champion concept. The Champion and runestaff are lightly touched upon, and frankly so are the characters. I think you could similair things with other writers (Tamora Pearce) who first time out was ok and developed into very good/outstanding authors over time.
This not fantasy where you should expect a lot of characterization. Actually, characterization is about zero, and at the times it feels like the villains are standing there twirling their mustache when talking (but in a good, fun, and enjoyable way for me as a reader).
As in most fantasy we get the final battle, and thank you Moorcock for keeping it brief and told well. I don't need tons of description of weapons and fighting, I have imagination (I say this while pointing a finger at Greg Iles and Clive Cussler).
I'm tempted enough to want to try Corum or Elric, but I need a break from Moorcock for now.
January 23, 2008
Michael Moorcock, The Runestaff (DAW, 1969)
Ah, you may think the adventures of good old Dorian Hawkmoon come to an end with the fourth and final novel of the Runestaff. Likely, so did Moorcock (the fifth book in the series, the start of a new trilogy, wasn't released for another four years, while these four were released over a period of a little more than twelve months). Now, with everything in place, it's time for Hawkmoon and his friend Huillam d'Averc to seek out the Runestaff itself. Problem is, Hawkmoon isn't fond of the idea; he'd rather go back to Castle Brass for a spell and see the rest of his friends. In the course of his erratic journey, we meet a new main character, Orland Fank (the brother of Hawkmoon's longtime advisor The Warrior in Jet and Gold), a few brand-new monstrosities, and the like. The series comes to a conclusion that is surprisingly, in retrospect, satisfying; had Moorcock never taken up the pen and applied it to Hawkmoon again, readers of the series would likely have been satisfied with what's here. Well, perhaps "satisfied" is not the correct word; longtime fans of the Eternal Champion books will understand what I mean. In either case, a good conclusion to the series, and one of the more worthwhile books in Moorcock's vast (and expanding) repertoire. ****
Ah, you may think the adventures of good old Dorian Hawkmoon come to an end with the fourth and final novel of the Runestaff. Likely, so did Moorcock (the fifth book in the series, the start of a new trilogy, wasn't released for another four years, while these four were released over a period of a little more than twelve months). Now, with everything in place, it's time for Hawkmoon and his friend Huillam d'Averc to seek out the Runestaff itself. Problem is, Hawkmoon isn't fond of the idea; he'd rather go back to Castle Brass for a spell and see the rest of his friends. In the course of his erratic journey, we meet a new main character, Orland Fank (the brother of Hawkmoon's longtime advisor The Warrior in Jet and Gold), a few brand-new monstrosities, and the like. The series comes to a conclusion that is surprisingly, in retrospect, satisfying; had Moorcock never taken up the pen and applied it to Hawkmoon again, readers of the series would likely have been satisfied with what's here. Well, perhaps "satisfied" is not the correct word; longtime fans of the Eternal Champion books will understand what I mean. In either case, a good conclusion to the series, and one of the more worthwhile books in Moorcock's vast (and expanding) repertoire. ****
March 26, 2021
Искренне поражен. Муркок сумел дописать серию, не скатившись в road movie про бесконечное путешествие по Мирам Хаоса и рандомные встречи с Загадочными Авторскими Персонажами (ну, последнее иногда прорывается, чего уж, но умеренно).
В финальной части цикла Европа лежит в руинах, фашистская империя Гранбретань пожирает себя в неизбежной гражданской войне, рушатся границы между планами мироздания, а Дориан Хокмун и барон Мелиадус, одержимые страстью к одной женщине, продолжают свою бесконечную дуэль на развалинах мира.
Отличные приключения, много эпичности и драмы, bittersweet финал.
Не самая сильная вещь у Муркока (первая книга Корума и некоторые повести про Элрика были намного мощнее), но, наверное, самая _ровная_.
В финальной части цикла Европа лежит в руинах, фашистская империя Гранбретань пожирает себя в неизбежной гражданской войне, рушатся границы между планами мироздания, а Дориан Хокмун и барон Мелиадус, одержимые страстью к одной женщине, продолжают свою бесконечную дуэль на развалинах мира.
Отличные приключения, много эпичности и драмы, bittersweet финал.
Не самая сильная вещь у Муркока (первая книга Корума и некоторые повести про Элрика были намного мощнее), но, наверное, самая _ровная_.
January 10, 2008
In a decaying society, a hero's fate is bound to a mysterious magical artifact which encompasses his success and his doom. In other words, exactly like every other Michael Moorcock book.
This is the final book of the series, except the following three books, where everybody dies, except those who don't.
The author does an interesting thing in that the chapters in this book are very short - averaging 5 pages - which gives a sense of chaos and a sense of hurtling towards the conclusion.
This is the final book of the series, except the following three books, where everybody dies, except those who don't.
The author does an interesting thing in that the chapters in this book are very short - averaging 5 pages - which gives a sense of chaos and a sense of hurtling towards the conclusion.
October 6, 2014
The (somewhat tragic) completion to the Hawkmoon "History of the Runestaff" series. The Eternal Champion Cycle is one of fantasy's classic series along with Zelazny's Amber series, the Wizard of Earthsea, and a few others. And I think it belongs there, don't miss them.
This book ends or completes the "first" Dorian Hawkmoon series, and ends in a way that (if you're like me) will send you racing to find the second (Castle Brass) series. Well written and for it's brevity and plot driven style surprisingly moving. Good book, good series and leads into a second good series.
Enjoy.
This book ends or completes the "first" Dorian Hawkmoon series, and ends in a way that (if you're like me) will send you racing to find the second (Castle Brass) series. Well written and for it's brevity and plot driven style surprisingly moving. Good book, good series and leads into a second good series.
Enjoy.
August 31, 2020
This review is mostly a summary of the plot points, so if you’re not into spoilers, then just skip my review, or scroll down to the end where I’ll give my assessment of the tale without ruining the action. It will be pretty short and concise, helpful even, maybe.
I was interested in revisiting Hawkmoon, having read Books#5-#7 (subtitled The Chronicles of Castle Brass #1-#3), so I found myself back at the start of Hawkmoon’s adventures, at least as they are titled by Moorcock anyway!
As we prepare to start Book#4, the final in the History of the Runestaff (!!), we are reminded that Granbretan has ravaged Europe and eastward, vanquishing all save Castle Brass. And so the name becomes a talisman of rebellion and hope. But our heroes have only delayed things, having escaped, not defeated the Dark Empire. Meliadus returns to Huon’s court, a failed man, and Hawkmoon sails to Europe, against the Warrior’s direction, seeking Yisselda and his people. How will it all be resolved, and what of the Runestaff’s needs??
Part one starts with Meliadus being reprimanded for personal vendettas against King Huon’s wishes, and, sufficiently admonished, he seeks out Flana, who is pining for D’Averc again, still. Hawkmoon and D’Averc, meanwhile, are attacked by marine beasts and scuttled on an island. There he meets Orland Fank, “spiritual brother” of the Warrior, enemy of the Dark Empire, of course! He provides the duo a boat and they are re-redirected east to Dnark, so the Warrior was right, in a way. They land at what they name The City of Glowing Shadows, and are re-reunited with Jehamia Cohnahlias (another iteration of Jhary…). They meet the Great Good Ones and learn they are in Dnark, home of the Runestaff. How convenient… But another is here, Shenegar Trott, of the vile Dark Empire. And his army soon overwhelms the city, Jehamia is captured, and Hawkmoon is saved and transported, magically, to the Hall of the Runestaff. Within moments, Orland and the Warrior join them, facing them is Shenegar, his men, and Jehamia. An impasse! A battle, more like it. Sword of Dawn, Legions of Dawn, Great Good Ones all aid in Hawkmoon attaining the Runestaff (which holds Jehamia’s spirit). He is tasked with returning to Europe to save the world. Simple enough, right Hawkmoon?
Part two is prefaced with the destiny-or-doom of swearing on the Runestaff. Meliadus and Hawkmoon are connected by such a sworn oath and the final confrontation looms.
The action begins with Meliadus seeking help to find Yisselda and Castle Brass: with Flana discussing a mutually beneficial partnering, with Kalan being “loyalty tested”, with Taragorm and Tozer seeking transport to Kamarg, and with King Huon to be sent to Amarekh, with Flana and Masked Warriors, to seek Trott. Instead, Meliadus and Flana decide to usurp Huon’s throne to better serve each of their aims.
Now all our combatants are planning, assembling, scheming: Hawkmoon and his allies, Meliadus and his troops, King Huon in his stronghold. Behold the Runestaff and its power, twisting fates and fortunes alike.
Part three brings us to the long-awaited, long fated resolution.
At Castle Brass, Hawkmoon eyes his weapons: the Red Amulet, the Rings of Mygan, the Sword of Dawn, Rinal’s machine, and the Runestaff. Mighty weapons, but enough? Before the fighting even commences, Taragorm’s creation cracks the Rings and breaks Rinal’s machine. Two down already! And in the morning the find Kamarg laid waste, utterly. And yet a friend returns, Orland Fank. Could this be help, or simply false hope? He brings six new helms - the good equivalent of the Dark Empire Mask - and each is taken by its owner: Hawkmoon, D’Averc, Oladahn, Count Brass, and… Bowgentle (poet-warrior!) and Yisselda (warrioress!!).
Meliadus captains the Masked Men, still unable to claim victory, still unsure if Taragorm’s machine worked, returning Castle Brass to this plane. He also awaits Kalan’s device (that for one, but also to reactivate the Black Jewel!), but gains an ally in Adaz of the Hounds, who tells Meliadus of Trott’s death, Hawkmoon’s acquisition of the Runestaff, and Castle Brass’ return to here and now! Is victory not far behind?!? Meliadus soon kills Huon, blinding himself temporarily (??) in the process. Flana is raised as Queen of Granbretan, and Kalan tells Meliadus he can take control of the Black Jewel at last. What end is this?? As Hawkmoon presses to Londra, the Dark Empire’s last bastion, Oladahn and Brass are killed, and the Black Jewel has been reactivated. Hawkmoon turns to the Runestaff for power and aid, but even so Bowgentle and D’Averc are killed. Now they are three, against Meliadus and the Dark Empire. But this being a hero’s tale Hawkmoon uses the Runestaff’s power to wield the Sword of Dawn and kill Meliadus. The wrap-up is quick: Queen Flana desires to rule peacefully, Hawkmoon and Yisselda return to Castle Brass, and Orland Fank takes the Red Amulet, the Sword of Dawn, and the Runestaff with him until, or if, they are ever needed again. Thus ends the History of the Runestaff.
Not a lot different from Book#3, critically. So I’m just copy-pasta-ing that review, mostly. Deal with it. Or, find the differences, if there are any! Hahahahaha!
A bit longer, relatively speaking, than the Castle Brass, Corum, or Elric books, but enjoyable all the same. Not as many crossover details from other Eternal Champion tales in this book, surprisingly, and quite a few more hero-deaths than expected. Moorcock does well to manage all the action and locations, keeping the tale’s pacing throughout, but the multiplicity of characters leaves the plot a tad thin in places, and resolutions - the rushed ending! - are quite a bit too tidy . Hawkmoon is ever the reluctant Champion, which makes him less likeable for me than Corum or Elric. Not quite as good as other Champion iterations, but with only the oft-pilloried Erekosë trilogy left, Hawkmoon will at not be the worst Champion of Moorcock’s Multiverse.
I was interested in revisiting Hawkmoon, having read Books#5-#7 (subtitled The Chronicles of Castle Brass #1-#3), so I found myself back at the start of Hawkmoon’s adventures, at least as they are titled by Moorcock anyway!
As we prepare to start Book#4, the final in the History of the Runestaff (!!), we are reminded that Granbretan has ravaged Europe and eastward, vanquishing all save Castle Brass. And so the name becomes a talisman of rebellion and hope. But our heroes have only delayed things, having escaped, not defeated the Dark Empire. Meliadus returns to Huon’s court, a failed man, and Hawkmoon sails to Europe, against the Warrior’s direction, seeking Yisselda and his people. How will it all be resolved, and what of the Runestaff’s needs??
Part one starts with Meliadus being reprimanded for personal vendettas against King Huon’s wishes, and, sufficiently admonished, he seeks out Flana, who is pining for D’Averc again, still. Hawkmoon and D’Averc, meanwhile, are attacked by marine beasts and scuttled on an island. There he meets Orland Fank, “spiritual brother” of the Warrior, enemy of the Dark Empire, of course! He provides the duo a boat and they are re-redirected east to Dnark, so the Warrior was right, in a way. They land at what they name The City of Glowing Shadows, and are re-reunited with Jehamia Cohnahlias (another iteration of Jhary…). They meet the Great Good Ones and learn they are in Dnark, home of the Runestaff. How convenient… But another is here, Shenegar Trott, of the vile Dark Empire. And his army soon overwhelms the city, Jehamia is captured, and Hawkmoon is saved and transported, magically, to the Hall of the Runestaff. Within moments, Orland and the Warrior join them, facing them is Shenegar, his men, and Jehamia. An impasse! A battle, more like it. Sword of Dawn, Legions of Dawn, Great Good Ones all aid in Hawkmoon attaining the Runestaff (which holds Jehamia’s spirit). He is tasked with returning to Europe to save the world. Simple enough, right Hawkmoon?
Part two is prefaced with the destiny-or-doom of swearing on the Runestaff. Meliadus and Hawkmoon are connected by such a sworn oath and the final confrontation looms.
The action begins with Meliadus seeking help to find Yisselda and Castle Brass: with Flana discussing a mutually beneficial partnering, with Kalan being “loyalty tested”, with Taragorm and Tozer seeking transport to Kamarg, and with King Huon to be sent to Amarekh, with Flana and Masked Warriors, to seek Trott. Instead, Meliadus and Flana decide to usurp Huon’s throne to better serve each of their aims.
Now all our combatants are planning, assembling, scheming: Hawkmoon and his allies, Meliadus and his troops, King Huon in his stronghold. Behold the Runestaff and its power, twisting fates and fortunes alike.
Part three brings us to the long-awaited, long fated resolution.
At Castle Brass, Hawkmoon eyes his weapons: the Red Amulet, the Rings of Mygan, the Sword of Dawn, Rinal’s machine, and the Runestaff. Mighty weapons, but enough? Before the fighting even commences, Taragorm’s creation cracks the Rings and breaks Rinal’s machine. Two down already! And in the morning the find Kamarg laid waste, utterly. And yet a friend returns, Orland Fank. Could this be help, or simply false hope? He brings six new helms - the good equivalent of the Dark Empire Mask - and each is taken by its owner: Hawkmoon, D’Averc, Oladahn, Count Brass, and… Bowgentle (poet-warrior!) and Yisselda (warrioress!!).
Meliadus captains the Masked Men, still unable to claim victory, still unsure if Taragorm’s machine worked, returning Castle Brass to this plane. He also awaits Kalan’s device (that for one, but also to reactivate the Black Jewel!), but gains an ally in Adaz of the Hounds, who tells Meliadus of Trott’s death, Hawkmoon’s acquisition of the Runestaff, and Castle Brass’ return to here and now! Is victory not far behind?!? Meliadus soon kills Huon, blinding himself temporarily (??) in the process. Flana is raised as Queen of Granbretan, and Kalan tells Meliadus he can take control of the Black Jewel at last. What end is this?? As Hawkmoon presses to Londra, the Dark Empire’s last bastion, Oladahn and Brass are killed, and the Black Jewel has been reactivated. Hawkmoon turns to the Runestaff for power and aid, but even so Bowgentle and D’Averc are killed. Now they are three, against Meliadus and the Dark Empire. But this being a hero’s tale Hawkmoon uses the Runestaff’s power to wield the Sword of Dawn and kill Meliadus. The wrap-up is quick: Queen Flana desires to rule peacefully, Hawkmoon and Yisselda return to Castle Brass, and Orland Fank takes the Red Amulet, the Sword of Dawn, and the Runestaff with him until, or if, they are ever needed again. Thus ends the History of the Runestaff.
Not a lot different from Book#3, critically. So I’m just copy-pasta-ing that review, mostly. Deal with it. Or, find the differences, if there are any! Hahahahaha!
A bit longer, relatively speaking, than the Castle Brass, Corum, or Elric books, but enjoyable all the same. Not as many crossover details from other Eternal Champion tales in this book, surprisingly, and quite a few more hero-deaths than expected. Moorcock does well to manage all the action and locations, keeping the tale’s pacing throughout, but the multiplicity of characters leaves the plot a tad thin in places, and resolutions - the rushed ending! - are quite a bit too tidy . Hawkmoon is ever the reluctant Champion, which makes him less likeable for me than Corum or Elric. Not quite as good as other Champion iterations, but with only the oft-pilloried Erekosë trilogy left, Hawkmoon will at not be the worst Champion of Moorcock’s Multiverse.
March 10, 2019
For most of the book, this is the best of this series, but I found the ending to be somewhat unsatisfying. I don't know if Moorcock was under some contractual obligation to finish the book in a certain number of pages (most of his books in this period run 140-160 pages). More likely that was the number of pages he could write and still meet his deadline. Whatever the reason, the ending seems rushed to me, even moreso than the others in this series.
All of the plotlines of the 4-book series are tied up and there are a number of characters killed, some of the quite surprising - perhaps this book was one of the inspirations for George Martin :) Moorcock was regularly pushing the boundaries, and this is another example of that.
This series is one of the better of the Eternal Champion series.
All of the plotlines of the 4-book series are tied up and there are a number of characters killed, some of the quite surprising - perhaps this book was one of the inspirations for George Martin :) Moorcock was regularly pushing the boundaries, and this is another example of that.
This series is one of the better of the Eternal Champion series.
May 14, 2021
Finisce così un'altra saga che racconta le avventure di una diversa incarnazione del Campione Eterno. Dorian Hawkmoon viaggia attraverso il tempo e lo spazio al servizio della runa magica per combatter le caotiche truppe dell'impero nero di Gran Bretagna. Fantasy e fantascienza uniti in una saga avvincente.
Thus ends another saga that tells the adventures of a different incarnation of the Eternal Champion. Dorian Hawkmoon travels through time and space in the service of the magical rune to battle the chaotic troops of the Black Empire of Great Britain. Fantasy and science fiction united in a compelling saga
Thus ends another saga that tells the adventures of a different incarnation of the Eternal Champion. Dorian Hawkmoon travels through time and space in the service of the magical rune to battle the chaotic troops of the Black Empire of Great Britain. Fantasy and science fiction united in a compelling saga
April 13, 2025
This final installment of the History of the Runestaff did not fail to deliver. Moorcock tightens up the chapters, and the reader jumps to different parts of the world as several plot lines converge.
The story is super-fast paced and the climax definitely delivers. This was a fun read, and a great bit of Moorcock's Eternal Warrior mythos.
The story is super-fast paced and the climax definitely delivers. This was a fun read, and a great bit of Moorcock's Eternal Warrior mythos.
December 3, 2022
This one solved all of my problems with the previous three books. Spectacular ending, better character work and interesting worldbuilding. My only setbacks were short battle scenes and poor dialogue. Easily the best Hawkmoon book 🔥
March 1, 2015
http://panopticonitalia.blogspot.it/2...
The rune magic is the fourth book (and therefore the final) of the saga of Rune Magic Michael Moorcock, published on the British market in 1969 by Lancer Books under the title "The Secret of the Runestaff"; while it is high in Italy only in 1978, thanks to the publisher Longanesi.
This last novel in the series (as well as others) can be cataloged fantasy / sword and sorcery / fantasy science / clockpunk, though presents unique elements that make it difficult to harness it into a single genre. Commentators today would not hesitate to call grimdark fantasy.
The Black Empire that now has conquered all of Europe and the Middle East, subjugating all the populations of these states and imposing the rule of terror. In spite of this, Britain can not benefit from a period of calm since the Baron Meladius, consumed by a desire to kill Dorian Hawkmoon and win absolute power, weaves a plan to overthrow the Emperor Huon, since it considers it crazy and unable to govern.
Meanwhile Hwkmoon intent is to make a long journey across the ocean to return from his beloved Yisselda, but his ship is attacked by some sea monsters that lead him to take refuge in Dnark, who learns to be manned by the spirit of Rune Magic.
The choice of Michael Moorcock is to tell us the story in the third person, through the point of view of Dorian Hawkmoon and that of Baron Meladius. As in the previous volume, the author dwells in highlighting the psychological profile of this character, highlighting his perfidy and his unbridled ambition. And this pov allows us to have more information on the socio-political situation of the Empire Black.
First of all this state is ruled with an iron dictatorial regime and the population has a subdivision in Orders (castes). Everyone must wear masks of animals, which indicate both the level reached by a person within the social scale, is a particular military unit. There are many: mantis, heron, wolf, snake, dog, pig, fly, vulture, falcon, etc ... Only without caste (considered pariahs) have the right to show up without them.
At the top of the social pyramid of Britain has the Emperor Huon, an immortal being like a withered fetus that has reigned for nearly two thousand years and that lives inside of a sphere containing the milky liquid. He has absolute power, he lives in the throne room and is defended by thousands of soldiers of the order of the mantis (to whom also belongs).
Britain, as I said just now, has succeeded in a few years to win throughout Europe and the Middle East, thanks to the advanced technologies developed by its scientists, led by Kalan Order of the Serpent, that no one has been able to counter. Among them I remember: the thopters flying, flamethrowers, machine intelligence and a cannon exploding green spheres corrosive.
Another element of great value is given by the architectural description of the palaces of London in which power is exercised by the hierarchs of the Empire Black. Reading the pages relating to such buildings can be projected in these dark and bizarre places, where they committed acts most execrable and home to the most abject debauched.
Nevertheless, the economy of the history plays a fundamental role the magic, as in situations of greatest danger the Rune Magic intervenes to change the events, in order to conduct Hawkmoon to fulfill his destiny. The story also take part horrifying monsters like giant reptiles and elemental spirits.
After having outlined all the strengths of the novel, I still have to observe that the plot is pretty straightforward and it becomes quite easy to understand what will be the conclusion of the saga. Furthermore, the author seems to have lost some of the enamel that had characterized the first two volumes of the series.
In any case, I would warmly recommend the reading of The rune magic and anyway the whole saga, given that for the elements of originality that is proposed to be a unique work of its kind.
The rune magic is the fourth book (and therefore the final) of the saga of Rune Magic Michael Moorcock, published on the British market in 1969 by Lancer Books under the title "The Secret of the Runestaff"; while it is high in Italy only in 1978, thanks to the publisher Longanesi.
This last novel in the series (as well as others) can be cataloged fantasy / sword and sorcery / fantasy science / clockpunk, though presents unique elements that make it difficult to harness it into a single genre. Commentators today would not hesitate to call grimdark fantasy.
The Black Empire that now has conquered all of Europe and the Middle East, subjugating all the populations of these states and imposing the rule of terror. In spite of this, Britain can not benefit from a period of calm since the Baron Meladius, consumed by a desire to kill Dorian Hawkmoon and win absolute power, weaves a plan to overthrow the Emperor Huon, since it considers it crazy and unable to govern.
Meanwhile Hwkmoon intent is to make a long journey across the ocean to return from his beloved Yisselda, but his ship is attacked by some sea monsters that lead him to take refuge in Dnark, who learns to be manned by the spirit of Rune Magic.
The choice of Michael Moorcock is to tell us the story in the third person, through the point of view of Dorian Hawkmoon and that of Baron Meladius. As in the previous volume, the author dwells in highlighting the psychological profile of this character, highlighting his perfidy and his unbridled ambition. And this pov allows us to have more information on the socio-political situation of the Empire Black.
First of all this state is ruled with an iron dictatorial regime and the population has a subdivision in Orders (castes). Everyone must wear masks of animals, which indicate both the level reached by a person within the social scale, is a particular military unit. There are many: mantis, heron, wolf, snake, dog, pig, fly, vulture, falcon, etc ... Only without caste (considered pariahs) have the right to show up without them.
At the top of the social pyramid of Britain has the Emperor Huon, an immortal being like a withered fetus that has reigned for nearly two thousand years and that lives inside of a sphere containing the milky liquid. He has absolute power, he lives in the throne room and is defended by thousands of soldiers of the order of the mantis (to whom also belongs).
Britain, as I said just now, has succeeded in a few years to win throughout Europe and the Middle East, thanks to the advanced technologies developed by its scientists, led by Kalan Order of the Serpent, that no one has been able to counter. Among them I remember: the thopters flying, flamethrowers, machine intelligence and a cannon exploding green spheres corrosive.
Another element of great value is given by the architectural description of the palaces of London in which power is exercised by the hierarchs of the Empire Black. Reading the pages relating to such buildings can be projected in these dark and bizarre places, where they committed acts most execrable and home to the most abject debauched.
Nevertheless, the economy of the history plays a fundamental role the magic, as in situations of greatest danger the Rune Magic intervenes to change the events, in order to conduct Hawkmoon to fulfill his destiny. The story also take part horrifying monsters like giant reptiles and elemental spirits.
After having outlined all the strengths of the novel, I still have to observe that the plot is pretty straightforward and it becomes quite easy to understand what will be the conclusion of the saga. Furthermore, the author seems to have lost some of the enamel that had characterized the first two volumes of the series.
In any case, I would warmly recommend the reading of The rune magic and anyway the whole saga, given that for the elements of originality that is proposed to be a unique work of its kind.
June 11, 2018
Maybe Moorchock was in more of a hurry to finish this series than I was... I felt like there was the more than usual last minute supernatural saviors... I mean, the whole series has been plagued by this "Warrior in Jet and Gold" who always shows up and saves the day just when Hawkmoon is about to bite it... but this title is ridiculous. And it's not like the page count would have skyrocketed if Moorcock had offered a bit more of an explanation for it all. The bad guys have some superweapons, too, and without even a nod towards whatever magic or pseudoscience that makes them work, it starts to feel like, jeez, anything can happen.
What holds it together, really, is the insanity of the Dark Empire, the far-future Great Britain that strangely honors James Harold Wilson, Baron Wilson of Rievaulx, KG, OBE, PC, FRS, FSS with a high speed battleship called the Aral Vilson... When Moorcock wrote this thing, nobody'd heard of Wiccans, Hammer horror films were in their heyday... and, yeah, lots of colonies were winning their Independence while lots of former colonies were finally getting around to majority (i.e. Black) rule... so I think it's eerily prescient given the wackos in charge now... people who probably painted sigils on animal sacrifices in their secret Oxbridge clubs... people who want the so-called "Commonwealth" to be a thing again. Let's not forget the Dark Empire's masks. In the real world, while he's writing this, you have the Black Panther newspaper in the US filled with pictures of pigs labeled politicians, avaricious businessmen, and of course police... Moorcock has all of Great Britain proudly wearing masks of dogs, flies, rats... hilarious.
The best character in here is Flana, a woman who is heir to the Dark Empire's throne and just doesn't care... there is a page somewhere in this book where she has a possible revelation about herself, and it's so good, I wish we could have had a lot more of her. Actually, the whole "History of the Runestaff" would have been better if there was more point of view of Baron Meliadus. Much of the last two books are, but, I mean, this last book is only 140 pages, at least in this edition. I think it would have been cool to really explore the idea that Hawkmoon is the bad guy... some privileged blond boy from Köln, thinks he's the good guy, never questioned his hereditary right to rule, people hand him magic amulets and swords and whatnot and he's like, yeah, I totally deserve this... at least the Dark Empire is honest. Hawkmoon's trip is keeping the peasants safe so they can keep the castle fed while he lies around with the boring Yisselda... I guess the whole thing is for kids and I am asking for too much.
There's also Moorcock's multiverse schtick which I am not so clued in about... The spirit of the Runestaff is some boy named Cohnalias? I know there's a running character in the more grown up stuff, a Cornelius or something. Maybe this is all a lot cooler the more of it you read. Like how people get into some comic book superhero universe because the stories are just so damn big.
What holds it together, really, is the insanity of the Dark Empire, the far-future Great Britain that strangely honors James Harold Wilson, Baron Wilson of Rievaulx, KG, OBE, PC, FRS, FSS with a high speed battleship called the Aral Vilson... When Moorcock wrote this thing, nobody'd heard of Wiccans, Hammer horror films were in their heyday... and, yeah, lots of colonies were winning their Independence while lots of former colonies were finally getting around to majority (i.e. Black) rule... so I think it's eerily prescient given the wackos in charge now... people who probably painted sigils on animal sacrifices in their secret Oxbridge clubs... people who want the so-called "Commonwealth" to be a thing again. Let's not forget the Dark Empire's masks. In the real world, while he's writing this, you have the Black Panther newspaper in the US filled with pictures of pigs labeled politicians, avaricious businessmen, and of course police... Moorcock has all of Great Britain proudly wearing masks of dogs, flies, rats... hilarious.
The best character in here is Flana, a woman who is heir to the Dark Empire's throne and just doesn't care... there is a page somewhere in this book where she has a possible revelation about herself, and it's so good, I wish we could have had a lot more of her. Actually, the whole "History of the Runestaff" would have been better if there was more point of view of Baron Meliadus. Much of the last two books are, but, I mean, this last book is only 140 pages, at least in this edition. I think it would have been cool to really explore the idea that Hawkmoon is the bad guy... some privileged blond boy from Köln, thinks he's the good guy, never questioned his hereditary right to rule, people hand him magic amulets and swords and whatnot and he's like, yeah, I totally deserve this... at least the Dark Empire is honest. Hawkmoon's trip is keeping the peasants safe so they can keep the castle fed while he lies around with the boring Yisselda... I guess the whole thing is for kids and I am asking for too much.
There's also Moorcock's multiverse schtick which I am not so clued in about... The spirit of the Runestaff is some boy named Cohnalias? I know there's a running character in the more grown up stuff, a Cornelius or something. Maybe this is all a lot cooler the more of it you read. Like how people get into some comic book superhero universe because the stories are just so damn big.
January 12, 2022
At some level Moorcock knows it. The Granbretans are actually the stars of this show. In a different telling or rewrite he would have stuck with them as much as humanly possible instead of pretending that Hawkmoon is more interesting. The story revels in the "lunatic glory" of the Granbretan civilization eating itself, each baron resigned that a terrible choice had been made but must be seen through to the bitter ending. Meanwhile Hawkmoon, now in possession of the final plot coupon, rides in and an apocalypse occurs. Except that it has already occurred and he is just the janitorial crew.
The main power of the Runestaff seems to be "Be the Runestaff". Did it actually do anything? Did it bend fate and circumstances according to a design, or is the fact that everyone attributes qualities and value to this thing sufficient? There are primordial musings of fate and Greek tragedy circumstances but Moorcock doesn't pull on those threads except to center on the woeful oath sworn by Meliadus that capital-D Dooms all the players.
The main power of the Runestaff seems to be "Be the Runestaff". Did it actually do anything? Did it bend fate and circumstances according to a design, or is the fact that everyone attributes qualities and value to this thing sufficient? There are primordial musings of fate and Greek tragedy circumstances but Moorcock doesn't pull on those threads except to center on the woeful oath sworn by Meliadus that capital-D Dooms all the players.
January 9, 2022
Ce livre clôture la premier arc de la saga d'Hawkmoon. Moorcock est un auteur "classique" dans le sens où il a posé un certain nombre de bases mais aussi dans le sens où certains de ses écrits semblent aujourd'hui un poil poussiéreux. C'est le cas avec The Runestaff pourtant on y retrouve de très bonnes idées. L'empire des Granbretons est ultra évocateur avec ses ordres masqués et son ambiance. Le combat final est un peu expédié ceci dit et l'épée de l'aurore est un fil scénaristique faiblichon qui nuit à l'intrigue en simplifiant un peu tout ce qui est dommage. Le héros éternel est un concept que j'adore mais qui était plus intéressant dans la saga d'Ereköse et d'Elric.
March 22, 2016
Kendisinin de kabul ettiği üzere Moorcock, iyi fikirlere sahip kötü bi yazar galiba. En azından dört kitaplık bu seride bunu hissedebiliyorsunuz. Tasvirler zayıf ve yer yer basmakalıp, hikaye örgüsünün itici gücü sadece ama sadece "deus ex machina" olgusu, ama ne yalan söyleyeyim üzerinden onlarca yıl geçmesine rağmen kurgu üzerine bayağı kafa yorulduğunu ama bunu kağıda dökmeye gelince acele edildiğini hissetmemek elde değil.
Yine de aksiyon filmi izlemekten evladır diyor ve ilk fırsatta Elrich'lere el atmayı düşünüyorum :)
Yine de aksiyon filmi izlemekten evladır diyor ve ilk fırsatta Elrich'lere el atmayı düşünüyorum :)
June 2, 2021
Starts on the weaker side, but the last two thirds were absolutely amazing.
December 3, 2022
The Final Conclusion
26 November 2022
So, I’ve now managed to complete this set of four books, which as I’ve probably said before, I’ve probably already read. But then again I’ve read so many of Moorcock’s books that I can’t quite remember the ones that I’ve read or not, and also, I have no idea what happened to all the other ones. Actually, I’m not even sure if I ended up giving them to my friend (because even though I suspect that I have read these ones, I’m not sure if he landed up with them because I gave them to him).
Anyway, the book starts with Hawkmoon and d’Averc making their way back from Amerek to return to their princesses, but it seems that the powers that be have other ideas for them. While they are crossing the ocean they are attacked by some creatures that then proceed to drag them back to Amerek and the city of Dnark (which I believe is supposed to be New York). When they arrive they encounter one of the barons from the Gran Bretan, and of course, a battle starts which, not surprisingly, Hawkmoon wins. It is here that he discovers the bane of his existence, and that is the Runestaff.
It’s odd because throughout the series we are being told about how the Runestaff pretty much dictates people’s destinies, but when they finally find it, it simply happens to be a piece of wood that is used as a standard. Yet everybody seems to hold it in some mystical awe, that is everybody but Hawkmoon who comes across as being seriously inconvenienced by the fact that the Runestaff has mapped out his destiny. Well, I suspect that it might have something to do with Meliadius’ foolish oath back in the first book, where he swore by the Runestaff that he would destroy Hawkmoon.
Yeah, this book seems to explore the nature of destiny in that the suggestion is that there are forces beyond our control that dictate our every move. Mind you, there are a lot of sects in the modern world that believe that (and I’m looking at the hyper-Calvinists here) and sadly these beliefs do lead to some very nasty beliefs (you are in that position because it is God’s will that you are in that position – and I hear it being said a lot in regards to poverty). Yet, it is clear from Hawkmoon that he finds this to be rather frustrating, yet you also get the impression that the Runestaff seems to know best.
The reason for that is because of the nature of the final battle. In fact, that last section of the book was probably the best, and I personally don’t want to say too much about it because I feel that it might actually ruin what ended up being a pretty good conclusion. However, one of the things that I have noticed in Moorcock’s books is that the battles seem to be all one-sided affairs, which is why the final battle in this book was so much better, namely because he had given us something completely unexpected. All I will say is that it turns out that just because you happen to be a main character, doesn’t mean that you are going to survive until the end of the story (though it isn’t anywhere near as bad as some other books that I haven’t read).
Yeah, I actually really liked this one, and I also appreciated the fact that the whole story was broken up into smaller books, which were all quite small, and quick to read. This is definitely something that seems to be ignored these days, with the number of bricks that seem to be appearing on the shelves. Honestly, I would like to go back to the days where the novels were of such a size that you could read a book in a couple of days.
26 November 2022
So, I’ve now managed to complete this set of four books, which as I’ve probably said before, I’ve probably already read. But then again I’ve read so many of Moorcock’s books that I can’t quite remember the ones that I’ve read or not, and also, I have no idea what happened to all the other ones. Actually, I’m not even sure if I ended up giving them to my friend (because even though I suspect that I have read these ones, I’m not sure if he landed up with them because I gave them to him).
Anyway, the book starts with Hawkmoon and d’Averc making their way back from Amerek to return to their princesses, but it seems that the powers that be have other ideas for them. While they are crossing the ocean they are attacked by some creatures that then proceed to drag them back to Amerek and the city of Dnark (which I believe is supposed to be New York). When they arrive they encounter one of the barons from the Gran Bretan, and of course, a battle starts which, not surprisingly, Hawkmoon wins. It is here that he discovers the bane of his existence, and that is the Runestaff.
It’s odd because throughout the series we are being told about how the Runestaff pretty much dictates people’s destinies, but when they finally find it, it simply happens to be a piece of wood that is used as a standard. Yet everybody seems to hold it in some mystical awe, that is everybody but Hawkmoon who comes across as being seriously inconvenienced by the fact that the Runestaff has mapped out his destiny. Well, I suspect that it might have something to do with Meliadius’ foolish oath back in the first book, where he swore by the Runestaff that he would destroy Hawkmoon.
Yeah, this book seems to explore the nature of destiny in that the suggestion is that there are forces beyond our control that dictate our every move. Mind you, there are a lot of sects in the modern world that believe that (and I’m looking at the hyper-Calvinists here) and sadly these beliefs do lead to some very nasty beliefs (you are in that position because it is God’s will that you are in that position – and I hear it being said a lot in regards to poverty). Yet, it is clear from Hawkmoon that he finds this to be rather frustrating, yet you also get the impression that the Runestaff seems to know best.
The reason for that is because of the nature of the final battle. In fact, that last section of the book was probably the best, and I personally don’t want to say too much about it because I feel that it might actually ruin what ended up being a pretty good conclusion. However, one of the things that I have noticed in Moorcock’s books is that the battles seem to be all one-sided affairs, which is why the final battle in this book was so much better, namely because he had given us something completely unexpected. All I will say is that it turns out that just because you happen to be a main character, doesn’t mean that you are going to survive until the end of the story (though it isn’t anywhere near as bad as some other books that I haven’t read).
Yeah, I actually really liked this one, and I also appreciated the fact that the whole story was broken up into smaller books, which were all quite small, and quick to read. This is definitely something that seems to be ignored these days, with the number of bricks that seem to be appearing on the shelves. Honestly, I would like to go back to the days where the novels were of such a size that you could read a book in a couple of days.
Read
December 22, 2025Why I read it: Mercifully last in a series. Review for the first one. Review for the second one. Review for the third one.
Thoughts: Another story told on two fronts: on one front, Hawkmoon is railroaded into finding the Runestaff; on the other front, Meliadus's frustrations with King Huon's frustrations with Meliadus finally come to a boil and he plots a full-on civil war. Hawkmoon is homesick for Castle Brass, Flana is homesick for D'Averc's magical dick, D'Averc is... around, as always complaining about his weak constitution while putting away more food than the rest of the cast put together, and .
A bunch of confusing and unexplained stuff happens with several instances of deus ex machina. The Warrior in Jet and Gold is there a while, then he isn't. Then he dies? But his visor is smashed too hard so Hawkmoon never even gets to discover his identity (which I had to google after the fact because it was eating me up inside). When the Warrior isn't there, Orland Fank is there and he also delivers crucial items at crucial times, and Orland Fank is the Warrior's brother, but not his actual brother, jk jk, unless? Then the Runestaff also manifests as a child, who has an inexplicably terrible name (which is, from my knowledge, a reference to another Moorcock protagonist), and who makes inexplicably terrible decisions, and who may or may not be Orland Fank himself or Orland Fank's son? But not really? ...unless? I don't know. I really don't know.
Of the four Runestaff novels, this one feels the most phoned in during the Hawkmoon bits. This very fun, true, and interesting review of the Runestaff quartet speaks about how Moorcock wrote the Hawkmoon stuff to pay the bills, while putting more effort into the stories he actually cared about. The review references some clear instances where Moorcock's favourite areas of focus (detailed court machinations and the fall of Granbretan), uh, came into focus in the Hawkmoon stories, especially the previous one and this one. Unfortunately, I didn't pick up these books for Granbretan so I don't actually care about the fall of Granbretan. What I did care about when I picked up Hawkmoon was... Hawkmoon. But Hawkmoon, frankly, sux as a protagonist. So this last book was drudgery and I was glad it was over.
Would I read more from this author: Despite the Runestaff, yes.
Would I recommend it: No.
Would I reread it: No.
Thoughts: Another story told on two fronts: on one front, Hawkmoon is railroaded into finding the Runestaff; on the other front, Meliadus's frustrations with King Huon's frustrations with Meliadus finally come to a boil and he plots a full-on civil war. Hawkmoon is homesick for Castle Brass, Flana is homesick for D'Averc's magical dick, D'Averc is... around, as always complaining about his weak constitution while putting away more food than the rest of the cast put together, and .
A bunch of confusing and unexplained stuff happens with several instances of deus ex machina. The Warrior in Jet and Gold is there a while, then he isn't. Then he dies? But his visor is smashed too hard so Hawkmoon never even gets to discover his identity (which I had to google after the fact because it was eating me up inside). When the Warrior isn't there, Orland Fank is there and he also delivers crucial items at crucial times, and Orland Fank is the Warrior's brother, but not his actual brother, jk jk, unless? Then the Runestaff also manifests as a child, who has an inexplicably terrible name (which is, from my knowledge, a reference to another Moorcock protagonist), and who makes inexplicably terrible decisions, and who may or may not be Orland Fank himself or Orland Fank's son? But not really? ...unless? I don't know. I really don't know.
Of the four Runestaff novels, this one feels the most phoned in during the Hawkmoon bits. This very fun, true, and interesting review of the Runestaff quartet speaks about how Moorcock wrote the Hawkmoon stuff to pay the bills, while putting more effort into the stories he actually cared about. The review references some clear instances where Moorcock's favourite areas of focus (detailed court machinations and the fall of Granbretan), uh, came into focus in the Hawkmoon stories, especially the previous one and this one. Unfortunately, I didn't pick up these books for Granbretan so I don't actually care about the fall of Granbretan. What I did care about when I picked up Hawkmoon was... Hawkmoon. But Hawkmoon, frankly, sux as a protagonist. So this last book was drudgery and I was glad it was over.
Would I read more from this author: Despite the Runestaff, yes.
Would I recommend it: No.
Would I reread it: No.
July 12, 2024
Score: 3.7;
Having come to the conclusion of the Hawkmoon series, I have come to the conclusion that this series will be one that I will easily forget in the sands of time. Many moments will begin slipping through the cracks fairly quickly, showing that the narrative ultimately lacks true staying power in any tangible fashion. Thus, I am confident in saying that the Hawkmoon series will go down, for me, as an incredibly forgettable experience.
Primarily, outside of the many problems and issues I have discussed at length before in my other three reviews, The Runestaff in particular lacks any emotional crescendo. The way events play out, it becomes impossible for the reader to invest in those happenings. Their is a noted lack of weight or impact to flesh out the narrative. Thus, the raison d'etre of the narrative is all but unfeasible to parse out.
The climax especially is described in such a blunt and emotionless manner that does not elevate any of the scenes at all. Events are not given the weight they should, and it all feels stunted. There are events that should have any impact, but do not. Frankly, reading through the Runestaff in spite of its short length, was tedious due to missing those emotional beats that is essential to any craft to string along an audience.
As mentioned previously, characters, themes, and plot are all haphazard and given no depth to truly flesh them out within the story that is presented. Too many times is something mention, a character feels something, or an idea is conveyed, and instead of allowing that moment to linger, the narrative boxes out those poignant concepts, not allowing any growth to take place.
Ultimately, Moorcock's Eternal Champion saga as a whole has great idea sin concept but the execution of these ideas leaves a lot to be desired, thus creating a narrative that feels wants to aspire to more but can not.
Having come to the conclusion of the Hawkmoon series, I have come to the conclusion that this series will be one that I will easily forget in the sands of time. Many moments will begin slipping through the cracks fairly quickly, showing that the narrative ultimately lacks true staying power in any tangible fashion. Thus, I am confident in saying that the Hawkmoon series will go down, for me, as an incredibly forgettable experience.
Primarily, outside of the many problems and issues I have discussed at length before in my other three reviews, The Runestaff in particular lacks any emotional crescendo. The way events play out, it becomes impossible for the reader to invest in those happenings. Their is a noted lack of weight or impact to flesh out the narrative. Thus, the raison d'etre of the narrative is all but unfeasible to parse out.
The climax especially is described in such a blunt and emotionless manner that does not elevate any of the scenes at all. Events are not given the weight they should, and it all feels stunted. There are events that should have any impact, but do not. Frankly, reading through the Runestaff in spite of its short length, was tedious due to missing those emotional beats that is essential to any craft to string along an audience.
As mentioned previously, characters, themes, and plot are all haphazard and given no depth to truly flesh them out within the story that is presented. Too many times is something mention, a character feels something, or an idea is conveyed, and instead of allowing that moment to linger, the narrative boxes out those poignant concepts, not allowing any growth to take place.
Ultimately, Moorcock's Eternal Champion saga as a whole has great idea sin concept but the execution of these ideas leaves a lot to be desired, thus creating a narrative that feels wants to aspire to more but can not.
December 20, 2024
And so, we reach the end of another series in Michael Moorcock’s Eternal Champion saga. For some reason, in this particular volume, the character’s previous existences in other planes, the different names he has had, and so on, are not necessarily mentioned. Perhaps the author finally got tired of having to tie all of that together every time.
Anyway, regarding this final volume itself, there’s finally a contrast where the hero doesn’t necessarily need to defend himself from an army's attack; instead, he goes on the offensive.
I found the character development a bit weak—there’s nothing that stands out. As for the Runestaff artifact, honestly, the sword Hawkmoon uses seems far more useful in the end (I know, you’ll say it works through the Runestaff's intervention, but still, I honestly expected more from this artifact).
I also have to mention that I was somewhat disappointed with the ending. Later, I checked the wiki page to verify something, and it seems the "true" ending isn’t the same as the one presented in the book. I don’t know, man, what I can say is that, overall, I really enjoyed the setting, the ideas, the factions, and the fact that the story takes place in a world like ours (albeit under a dystopian reality).
I’ll take a break from Michael Moorcock’s works; maybe next year I’ll pick up something else by him.
Anyway, regarding this final volume itself, there’s finally a contrast where the hero doesn’t necessarily need to defend himself from an army's attack; instead, he goes on the offensive.
I found the character development a bit weak—there’s nothing that stands out. As for the Runestaff artifact, honestly, the sword Hawkmoon uses seems far more useful in the end (I know, you’ll say it works through the Runestaff's intervention, but still, I honestly expected more from this artifact).
I also have to mention that I was somewhat disappointed with the ending. Later, I checked the wiki page to verify something, and it seems the "true" ending isn’t the same as the one presented in the book. I don’t know, man, what I can say is that, overall, I really enjoyed the setting, the ideas, the factions, and the fact that the story takes place in a world like ours (albeit under a dystopian reality).
I’ll take a break from Michael Moorcock’s works; maybe next year I’ll pick up something else by him.
February 21, 2023
Todo es caos a nuestro alrededor, la existencia no tiene el menor significado. Sólo existe una ventaja en vivir la propia vida, y consiste en descubrir todas las sensaciones que sea capaz de experimentar la mente y el cuerpo humanos.
—Si estuvieran locos podrían sacar ventaja de su falta de racionalidad
—Lo sabréis cuando lo sepáis
¡Vuestro pesimismo roza la traición
—El mundo no cambia, Dorian Hawkmoon—observó Fank con un suspiro—. Sólo se produce algún que otro desplazamiento ocasional en el equilibrio, pero si ese desplazamiento llega demasiado lejos en una sola dirección, el Bastón Rúnico se pone a trabajar inmediatamente para contrarrestarlo.
—La justicia no es la ley, ni el orden, tal y como suelen hablar de ella los seres humanos. La justicia es equilibrio, la corrección de la balanza.
—Si estuvieran locos podrían sacar ventaja de su falta de racionalidad
—Lo sabréis cuando lo sepáis
¡Vuestro pesimismo roza la traición
—El mundo no cambia, Dorian Hawkmoon—observó Fank con un suspiro—. Sólo se produce algún que otro desplazamiento ocasional en el equilibrio, pero si ese desplazamiento llega demasiado lejos en una sola dirección, el Bastón Rúnico se pone a trabajar inmediatamente para contrarrestarlo.
—La justicia no es la ley, ni el orden, tal y como suelen hablar de ella los seres humanos. La justicia es equilibrio, la corrección de la balanza.
March 29, 2024
This is the best entry in the Runestaff series by far. It's incredibly emotional and it's so lean - the plot stays super interesting and never lets up. All the major characters, good and evil, get time to shine in a super fun way. There are what I understand to be references to other works in Moorcock's multiverse that made me really interested to read his other stuff. I really like Moorcock's depiction of "balance" not as perfect order, because I agree with him - that's a bit of a fascist idea. The Runestaff as an instrument of balance between that order and "chaos," which doesn't necessarily need to be a bad thing. It's a beautiful story that doesn't shy away from the death and destruction that comes with imperialism, and it's a series like nothing I've read before.
May 11, 2020
The Runestaff concludes the four-volume series of Dorian Hawkmoon and the Runestaff. In the previous volumes, Castle Brass was moved to another dimension to protect it from the evil dark empire of Granbretan and the Baron Meliadus. Hawkmoon meanwhile has found the Sword of the Dawn, which can conjure up an army. But he's been called to find the Runestaff.
The final volume brings it all to a conclusion as Grenbreatan falls into civil war as Meliadus tries to take over, and Hawkmoon, Count Brass, and allies launch an attack to free Europe. It's all fun, fast moving (it's only 158 pages long but packs in as many creative ideas as books three times its size), and imaginative.
The final volume brings it all to a conclusion as Grenbreatan falls into civil war as Meliadus tries to take over, and Hawkmoon, Count Brass, and allies launch an attack to free Europe. It's all fun, fast moving (it's only 158 pages long but packs in as many creative ideas as books three times its size), and imaginative.
March 27, 2023
Moorcock brings his Runestaff tetralogy to a complete and satisfying end, tying up all loose ends quickly and neatly in the last third of the book. We veered far away from some of the issues raised and the characters introduced in the first volume, but all were brought back here for the final battle.
This entire series, if it's ever reissued, should be under one cover. It makes no sense to sell or read them separately, or heaven forfend, out of order. The writing of this series was no great intellectual feat and no one will have their IQ raised by a single point for having read it, but it was an entertaining way to idle away a few hours.
This entire series, if it's ever reissued, should be under one cover. It makes no sense to sell or read them separately, or heaven forfend, out of order. The writing of this series was no great intellectual feat and no one will have their IQ raised by a single point for having read it, but it was an entertaining way to idle away a few hours.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 100 reviews