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Corum #6
Το σπαθί και το άτι
Οι λιγοστοί επιζήσαντες Μάμπντεν συγκεντρώνονται από βορρά, νότο και δύση για να πολεμήσουν κάτω από τις διαταγές του Μεγάλου Βασιλέα Άμερτζιν και του Πρίγκιπα Κόρουμ, σε μια τελευταία απέλπιδα μάχη εναντίον των Φουόι Μιγιόρ. Όμως, τόσο ο Άμερτζιν όσο κι ο Κόρουμ γνωρίζουν πως η προσπάθειά τους είναι καταδικασμένη πριν ακόμα ξεκινήσει. Έτσι, ο Κόρουμ θα πρέπει να αναζητήσει καινούργιους συμμάχους στο τρομερό Νησί των Σκιών, όπου θα αναγκαστεί να πολεμήσει με παλιούς και νέους εχθρούς. Η ώρα της τελικής αναμέτρησης ανάμεσα στους Ανθρώπους και στην Αιώνια Νύχτα έχει σημάνει, κι όποιο κι αν είναι το αποτέλεσμα, ο Κόρουμ βαθιά μέσα του γνωρίζει πως οι μέρες του πάνω σ’ εκείνο τον κόσμο είναι μετρημένες, και το τέλος, με τον ένα ή τον άλλο τρόπο, δεν θα αργήσει να έρθει. «Το Σπαθί και το Άτι» είναι το τελευταίο βιβλίο του μεγαλειώδους έπους του Κόρουμ, του Πρίγκιπα του Άλικου Χιτώνα.
173 pages, Paperback
First published April 1, 1974
16 people are currently reading
657 people want to read
About the author
Michael Moorcock
1,209 books3,750 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.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
July 27, 2019
Although the second volume ("The Oak and the Ram") was only mediocre, this third and concluding volume more than makes up for it. Moorcock does a clever job of exciting genre expectations, deliberately disappointing them, and then satisfying you in spite of your disappointment by lavishing upon you unexpected, unusual adventures. For example, he prepares you for a grand battle in the Tolkien tradition to save Mabden civilization from the alien Fhoi Myore, complete with a Homeric catalogue of colorfully-named warriors . . . and sends our hero Corum off on a quest just before the battle. Later, we hear second-hand that they have all been slain, never having seen them in action. Yet Corum's quest is more interesting than most battles, and it leads to a final battle that has the excitement we could wish for.
The ending is shocking and sad, by it really isn't surprising when you remember that, although Moorcock is a fantasy writer who reveres the heroes he creates, he is also a pragmatist and self-described anarchist who knows that heroes, however indispensable, are a burden and a danger to society if they overstay their welcome.
All in all, an exciting, shocking and thought-provoking ending to an entertaining series.
Want to read
October 10, 2017I read this series in high school, and could not bypass this hardcover edition. Perhaps a re-read is due soon.
July 12, 2019
Beautiful and fitting ending to Corum’s saga, filled with mysteries, magic, and unexpected twists. Great, great book.
June 3, 2020
The Sword and the Stallion is the sixth book in the Corum series and the final book in the second trilogy. The news of a second trilogy came as a surprise to readers of the first three volumes because The King of the Swords, the concluding book of the trilogy, ended with: "This ends the third and final Book of Corum." The second trilogy is a bit darker and feels a bit rushed in comparison with the first. The plots are fairly similar in structure and theme, and don't really cover any ground that the first ones didn't. It's more firmly grounded in familiar aspects of mythologies such as Norse and particularly Irish. Corum Jhaelen Irsei, the Prince in the Scarlet Robe, is an integral aspect of The Eternal Champion in Moorcock's multiverse tapestry of conflict featuring the Balance and Law and Chaos. The books are quite entertaining and fast, fun reads for heroic fantasy fans, but I wouldn't rank this second set as crucial parts of the puzzle. I preferred the conclusion to The Rulers trilogy to the one reached here.
February 27, 2018
απλή ιστορία όπως και οι προηγούμενες. ..ωραίο τέλος για τον κορουμ...
April 7, 2021
Let me begin by saying how nice it is to be able to read an entire fantasy trilogy in the space of about five days. Of course, that's because the entire trilogy in this case clocks in at less than 400 pages, which by contemporary standards barely constitutes the "What Has Come Before" section of your average doorstopper series.
So Corum's war against the Fhoi Myore reaches its crescendo with triumphs and tragedies aplenty, and while the tone of the whole thing may be a bit grim when all is said and done, I wouldn't change a thing.
So Corum's war against the Fhoi Myore reaches its crescendo with triumphs and tragedies aplenty, and while the tone of the whole thing may be a bit grim when all is said and done, I wouldn't change a thing.
August 14, 2021
For Corum's second trilogy, Moorcock went all in on Celtic themes and mythology. This almost reads like a pulp version of an Arthurian tale mixed with Moorcock's usual nihilism. The only negative here is that this felt a bit rushed. That can be said of the whole second trilogy, but I really felt it most in this volume.
September 13, 2022
Corum's final stand against the wrathful Cold Gods known as the Fhoi Myore reaches its bitter conclusion. Friends become enemies and enemies become friends in the final battle to decide which races will rule and which races will perish. Wielding the accursed magic sword Traitor and riding upon the ancient stallion that guides his blade of truth, Corum will fulfill a dark prophecy that could sever the world from chaos and mad gods or erase all life from the world once and for all.
A very tragic ending to Corum's second trilogy. The original trilogy ended on a surprisingly happy and wholesome note, but the ending of the second trilogy is full of despair, cruel irony and themes of Greek Tragedy. Many friends die. Lovers separate and turn against each other, sometimes to no fault of their own. Prophecies are fulfilled, rarely to anyone's benefit. While the ending is sad and even a bit frustrating in some ways, it feels very poetic and in tune with how things were being set up for such a bittersweet finale where death, betrayal and sacrifice was the only way to achieve ultimate peace and freedom for the few survivors of the world.
I enjoyed the first trilogy a bit more overall, but I think the first book in the second trilogy and the end of the 6th and final book were wonderfully dark and well-crafted.
A very tragic ending to Corum's second trilogy. The original trilogy ended on a surprisingly happy and wholesome note, but the ending of the second trilogy is full of despair, cruel irony and themes of Greek Tragedy. Many friends die. Lovers separate and turn against each other, sometimes to no fault of their own. Prophecies are fulfilled, rarely to anyone's benefit. While the ending is sad and even a bit frustrating in some ways, it feels very poetic and in tune with how things were being set up for such a bittersweet finale where death, betrayal and sacrifice was the only way to achieve ultimate peace and freedom for the few survivors of the world.
I enjoyed the first trilogy a bit more overall, but I think the first book in the second trilogy and the end of the 6th and final book were wonderfully dark and well-crafted.
December 8, 2022
"I am Corum! I am Cremm Croich of the Mound! I am Llaw Ereint, the Silver Hand! Tremble, lackeys of the Fhoi Myore, for the Mabden heroes have returned to the Earth! Tremble, for we are the Enemies of Winter!"
What a thrilling conclusion to a proper fantasy epic! (I know, I know it's Sword & Sorcery) - after the somewhat disappointing second book in the trilogy this one more than makes up for it. Going in I was afraid that it would be somewhat formulaic but Moorcock manages to subvert my expectations in best of ways.
Although this trilogy is rather focused, Moorcock still ties in his Multiverse mythos really well and it helps tell this story while retaining the Celtic mythology elements.
The dreamy, mystical and franky epic vibe to the story is as stronger than ever and it gives this entire series such a unique feel coupled with interesting names for locations and characters, all inspired by Celtic mythology after all.
Without going into spoilers, the ending is awesome and probably one of my favorites when it comes to fantasy. Bittersweet to the last moment. All hail Corum of the Silver Hand!
What a thrilling conclusion to a proper fantasy epic! (I know, I know it's Sword & Sorcery) - after the somewhat disappointing second book in the trilogy this one more than makes up for it. Going in I was afraid that it would be somewhat formulaic but Moorcock manages to subvert my expectations in best of ways.
Although this trilogy is rather focused, Moorcock still ties in his Multiverse mythos really well and it helps tell this story while retaining the Celtic mythology elements.
The dreamy, mystical and franky epic vibe to the story is as stronger than ever and it gives this entire series such a unique feel coupled with interesting names for locations and characters, all inspired by Celtic mythology after all.
Without going into spoilers, the ending is awesome and probably one of my favorites when it comes to fantasy. Bittersweet to the last moment. All hail Corum of the Silver Hand!
August 30, 2020
I was excited to get back into the Corum books after a brief, but thoroughly enjoyable diversion to the Castle Brass trilogy. Much of this is more spoiler-y than critique, so if you want surprises then don’t read any more of what follows.
Being the third of three books in the second trilogy of Corum there’s seemingly little doubt about the titular Champion’s survival, even so…
Book#6, the final of the sextology, finds Corum collecting the last of the great warriors of the Mabden for the final battle (really?!? Final? It’s the Multiverse!) against the Fhoi Myore, and maybe even Prince Gaynor the Doomed (with a name like that, how is this guy still alive?!?). Goffanon aids in crafting a sword for Corum, half-Sidhi and half-Mabden, fitting for Corum’s in-betweenness. Still, Corum feels a sense of dread, especially around Medhbh, which he cannot explain. They travel to Cremmsmound for a sword ritual, and Corum has visions of terrible things that will come to pass. Riders from afar come to join the cause, telling stories of a twin to Corum who slew their brethren. And the Seeress’ warnings of a brother come back to Corum… So he travels with Ilbrec to Ynys Scaith, the Isle of Shadows, for aid in the battle ahead, leaving behind Medhbh and Goffanon, who feel Corum has betrayed their cause for selfish, heroic gain.
Part two finds Corum and Ilbrec on their mini-quest to the Isle of Shadows. Where they are met with visions, illusions, dragons, and the Malibann - led by Sactric - people of the Isle. Unfriendly and powerful, quite. Left to their own devices, Corum and Ilbrec soon find an old saddle ( memories…), but are then met by Calatin, Goffanon (enchanted, in a bad way), and another, yet unnamed. They learn the battle at Caer Llud was a disaster, with nearly all the Mabden dead, save those who retreated to Craig Don, and all left alive believe Corum a traitor! Soon, Things go south, fast. Calatin gives Goffanon to Sactric, as promised (?!?), and Goffanon is asked to provide the location of a thing that will allow Sactric and the Malibann to leave the plane forever and return home. Unwilling to say where it is hidden, the unnamed being from the boat is summoned. Karach is his name, he is Calatin’s offspring, and Corum’s twin, to the detail! The brother… A lot happens, but we end up with Goffanon NOT what we expected, Corum with his Sidhi-Mabden sword now named Traitor, and a deal struck to defeat the Fhoi Myore AND allow Sactric and his people to return home. Jhary and Whiskers to the rescue, again!
At last we are getting to the ultimate prize, the final battle, in part three. On the return to Craig Don, Sactric has his sister’s head returned to him (stolen by Goffanon?!), and Corum is put on trial by (now) Queen Medhbh for traitorous betrayal. Where Ilbrec produces the old, worn saddle, which turns out to be one of the last of the Treasures of the Sidhi, Legaire’s Saddle of the Yellow Stallion! Passing the trial and astride the Yellow Stallion, Corum leads the battle against the Fhoi Myore, aided by his newly-charmed Silver Hand… The rest is awfully sad, and must be read to be appreciated. Probably true for the previous pages, as my summary does little justice to the breadth and depth of the tale at hand.
A fitting end, albeit a horrible and nasty one at that. I dare say I enjoyed the Prince Corum books almost as much as the Elric Canon. Huh. Moorcock does this type of tale quite well indeed. To Hawkmoon and the Runestaff quartet...
Being the third of three books in the second trilogy of Corum there’s seemingly little doubt about the titular Champion’s survival, even so…
Book#6, the final of the sextology, finds Corum collecting the last of the great warriors of the Mabden for the final battle (really?!? Final? It’s the Multiverse!) against the Fhoi Myore, and maybe even Prince Gaynor the Doomed (with a name like that, how is this guy still alive?!?). Goffanon aids in crafting a sword for Corum, half-Sidhi and half-Mabden, fitting for Corum’s in-betweenness. Still, Corum feels a sense of dread, especially around Medhbh, which he cannot explain. They travel to Cremmsmound for a sword ritual, and Corum has visions of terrible things that will come to pass. Riders from afar come to join the cause, telling stories of a twin to Corum who slew their brethren. And the Seeress’ warnings of a brother come back to Corum… So he travels with Ilbrec to Ynys Scaith, the Isle of Shadows, for aid in the battle ahead, leaving behind Medhbh and Goffanon, who feel Corum has betrayed their cause for selfish, heroic gain.
Part two finds Corum and Ilbrec on their mini-quest to the Isle of Shadows. Where they are met with visions, illusions, dragons, and the Malibann - led by Sactric - people of the Isle. Unfriendly and powerful, quite. Left to their own devices, Corum and Ilbrec soon find an old saddle ( memories…), but are then met by Calatin, Goffanon (enchanted, in a bad way), and another, yet unnamed. They learn the battle at Caer Llud was a disaster, with nearly all the Mabden dead, save those who retreated to Craig Don, and all left alive believe Corum a traitor! Soon, Things go south, fast. Calatin gives Goffanon to Sactric, as promised (?!?), and Goffanon is asked to provide the location of a thing that will allow Sactric and the Malibann to leave the plane forever and return home. Unwilling to say where it is hidden, the unnamed being from the boat is summoned. Karach is his name, he is Calatin’s offspring, and Corum’s twin, to the detail! The brother… A lot happens, but we end up with Goffanon NOT what we expected, Corum with his Sidhi-Mabden sword now named Traitor, and a deal struck to defeat the Fhoi Myore AND allow Sactric and his people to return home. Jhary and Whiskers to the rescue, again!
At last we are getting to the ultimate prize, the final battle, in part three. On the return to Craig Don, Sactric has his sister’s head returned to him (stolen by Goffanon?!), and Corum is put on trial by (now) Queen Medhbh for traitorous betrayal. Where Ilbrec produces the old, worn saddle, which turns out to be one of the last of the Treasures of the Sidhi, Legaire’s Saddle of the Yellow Stallion! Passing the trial and astride the Yellow Stallion, Corum leads the battle against the Fhoi Myore, aided by his newly-charmed Silver Hand… The rest is awfully sad, and must be read to be appreciated. Probably true for the previous pages, as my summary does little justice to the breadth and depth of the tale at hand.
A fitting end, albeit a horrible and nasty one at that. I dare say I enjoyed the Prince Corum books almost as much as the Elric Canon. Huh. Moorcock does this type of tale quite well indeed. To Hawkmoon and the Runestaff quartet...
October 7, 2014
The conclusion of the second Corum trilogy and the last Corum novel it is as always well written and will (I believe) draw you in.
The Prince of the Scarlett Robe can save them... His old enemies his new allies, but are they allies. Even though they depend on him, they need him, are they his allies? Having been mislead his former allies don't know Corum or don't think they do. Entrapped and battling will Corum have any place to turn. I think you'll see the end coming here but it's, as a story constructed so well I don't think it will take away from the novel.
I rated these 3 stars. That has to do with my own experience of this last trilogy and the fact that it is so dark and fatalistic. That being said, even if I can't call them enjoyable, I do recommend them. Just be aware that they are, as said, dark and fatalistic.
If you haven't read the first trilogy let me suggest that you do. This is, these are short novels and could be considered long on action and plot while a little short on characterization. That's not actually so if you build the character through all six novels. These are an integral part of the Eternal Champion Cycle, an epic fantasy in multiple volumes. If you're a fantasy fan I think you owe it to yourself to track them down and give them a try.
The Prince of the Scarlett Robe can save them... His old enemies his new allies, but are they allies. Even though they depend on him, they need him, are they his allies? Having been mislead his former allies don't know Corum or don't think they do. Entrapped and battling will Corum have any place to turn. I think you'll see the end coming here but it's, as a story constructed so well I don't think it will take away from the novel.
I rated these 3 stars. That has to do with my own experience of this last trilogy and the fact that it is so dark and fatalistic. That being said, even if I can't call them enjoyable, I do recommend them. Just be aware that they are, as said, dark and fatalistic.
If you haven't read the first trilogy let me suggest that you do. This is, these are short novels and could be considered long on action and plot while a little short on characterization. That's not actually so if you build the character through all six novels. These are an integral part of the Eternal Champion Cycle, an epic fantasy in multiple volumes. If you're a fantasy fan I think you owe it to yourself to track them down and give them a try.
May 11, 2016
"Ah, the world was ever so. How sad are heroes when their tasks are done..."
This is probably true of all of Moorcock's heroes and all the incarnations of the Eternal Champion, but certainly true of Corum Jhaelen Irsei. This volume brings to a close the high romance epic of the Prince with the Silver Hand and it is sad, and tragic. And like the Celtic fables and lore that inspired the tales of Corum, this is another story of loss, pain, despair, victory and sadness like only Michael Moorcock can deliver.
This is probably true of all of Moorcock's heroes and all the incarnations of the Eternal Champion, but certainly true of Corum Jhaelen Irsei. This volume brings to a close the high romance epic of the Prince with the Silver Hand and it is sad, and tragic. And like the Celtic fables and lore that inspired the tales of Corum, this is another story of loss, pain, despair, victory and sadness like only Michael Moorcock can deliver.
November 14, 2019
So the saga of Corum ends. I have to say, as a whole this was a great series. It moved right along, plenty of plot twists, plenty of interesting characters, great worldbuilding, just a really good series. I actually would have went a solid five stars if not for the ending. I won't spoil it here, but I just didn't care for how the series ended.
Overall the Chronicles of Corum ranks as one of the best fantasy series I've ever read. If you are a fan of sword and sorcery type fantasy, I highly recommend this series.
Overall the Chronicles of Corum ranks as one of the best fantasy series I've ever read. If you are a fan of sword and sorcery type fantasy, I highly recommend this series.
August 18, 2017
Prince Corum is once again involved in the battles between good and evil and gods and man. He sets off in search of a magic sword that can be used by only one man and will make use of a stallion that only he can ride.
January 26, 2016
The first set of the Eternal Champion books I read. Very interesting, very tortured main character. Great fantasy set. Highly recommended.
March 2, 2023
Bummer
While the rest of this series showed pronounced, steady growth in craftsmanship with each entry, this finale feels oddly rushed and rough by comparison...and yes, I know, everything Moorcock was writing at this point in his career was notoriously speed-written, but it feels more evident than usual here, like he was eager to be done with the story. Which, considering the growing strength of the rest of the series, is a shame. So does it stick the landing? Well, it's definitely an ending, with a stark, fatalistic abruptness that I guess was the point, though I wouldn't exactly call the delivery satisfying.
While the rest of this series showed pronounced, steady growth in craftsmanship with each entry, this finale feels oddly rushed and rough by comparison...and yes, I know, everything Moorcock was writing at this point in his career was notoriously speed-written, but it feels more evident than usual here, like he was eager to be done with the story. Which, considering the growing strength of the rest of the series, is a shame. So does it stick the landing? Well, it's definitely an ending, with a stark, fatalistic abruptness that I guess was the point, though I wouldn't exactly call the delivery satisfying.
December 24, 2015
http://openbooksociety.com/article/th...
The Sword and the Stallion
Chronicles of Corum, Book #6
Michael Moorcock
ISBN: 9781783291755
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Scott
Review:
It’s with joyous pleasure that we see the Chronicles of Corum re-released once again. The Prince with the Silver Hand is specifically where this book fits in (vis a vis Corum which comprises the first three books in this series). The swansong of this beautiful Celtic piece of drama, high intrigue, and Moorcock’s trademark dichotomy between the nature of order and chaos that pervades the novel, bears credence to Moorcock’s handling of this arc in the Corum Saga and indeed the series. Skillfully chosen words and a certain blend of Lord Dunsany, Yeats and Wilde keep this novel in the heads of discerning readers for a long time. There is a certain level of trust placed in the book after reading the proceeding two novels in this arc, and the Corum Trilogy before it. The magic in the world is in flux, and it is in this final battle between the forces of Order and Chaos, with the Mabden (human) bordering on extinction against the Fhoi Myore, creatures of chaos in primordial form in which Corum must triumph.
The writing style is Moorcock’s polished prose, probably the best outside his Elric novels. Gaelic poetry adorns the pages flowing between the sometimes deceivingly brutal tale. Explanation must be held first, before anything can be surmised. This is a book of the Eternal Champion, a being that always exists in multiple realms of the multi-verse The Champions function is to tip the scales, so to speak, in favor of the Balance – sometimes fighting on the side of Chaos, an ever changing, wave of change and destruction; sometimes fighting on the side of Order, a creeping stagnation of law and intolerance to change. Neither force dominates the multiverse for very long, and the Eternal Champion fights to restore the Balance between Order and Chaos such that neither gains the upper hand, Fickle gods play, with humans as their pawns to promote Order or Chaos, and thwarting them at every step, the Champion rides forth, either on the side of Order or the side of Chaos. Such being said. Corum in the Sword and the Stallion, as well as his previous adventures, champions the side of law against the Fhoi Myore and their never ending winter that lays waste to that which it covers.
Moorcock’s books are simple to read and thoroughly enjoyable, with a strong undertone of the philosophical in his writing. The prose flows off the page and the diction places you in the world you can concretely experience. The characters, by book six, are well developed, and totally three-dimensional in their execution. Every character, be it born of madness or love, speaks with an assured voice and mindset of their own. And the three protagonists in the works – Corum, Ilibrec and Goffanon, even the companion to champions Jhary-a-Connel (a play on Jerry Cornelius, another of Moorcock’s famous Champions?) carry the novel through in traditional epic, pulp proportions. The sharp writing and wit of both the prose and the dialogue, amongst the characters, propagate this novel through to the ever fateful last stand between the Mabden and the Fhoi Myore.
Needless to say, this book doesn’t hold well up on its own. Starting at Book I, in which the Prince with the Silver Hand is first introduced, and his adventures that lead him up to this climax is almost essential. This time it is actually good to start at Book One and Proceed through the series, in its two arcs – Corum, and The Prince with the Silver Hand. With that knowledge in tow, you are well prepared for this adventure into the fantastical. Most people are more familiar with Moorcock’s Elric Saga, but Hawkmoon and Corum, also play a crucial role in the guise of the Eternal Champion Saga, as do many others bearing the mantle.
Discerning fantasy readers will gravitate towards this series immediately. Others, who are willing to try out something new, should also give the Chronicles of Corum a spin. The Sword and the Stallion, being the ultimate book in the series, will sir well with readers familiar with the previous five. Fans of Lieber, Frazzerra, and the like will also find this book appealing. Kudos to Moorcock for the re-release of a fantastic, epic novel.
The Sword and the Stallion
Chronicles of Corum, Book #6
Michael Moorcock
ISBN: 9781783291755
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Scott
Review:
It’s with joyous pleasure that we see the Chronicles of Corum re-released once again. The Prince with the Silver Hand is specifically where this book fits in (vis a vis Corum which comprises the first three books in this series). The swansong of this beautiful Celtic piece of drama, high intrigue, and Moorcock’s trademark dichotomy between the nature of order and chaos that pervades the novel, bears credence to Moorcock’s handling of this arc in the Corum Saga and indeed the series. Skillfully chosen words and a certain blend of Lord Dunsany, Yeats and Wilde keep this novel in the heads of discerning readers for a long time. There is a certain level of trust placed in the book after reading the proceeding two novels in this arc, and the Corum Trilogy before it. The magic in the world is in flux, and it is in this final battle between the forces of Order and Chaos, with the Mabden (human) bordering on extinction against the Fhoi Myore, creatures of chaos in primordial form in which Corum must triumph.
The writing style is Moorcock’s polished prose, probably the best outside his Elric novels. Gaelic poetry adorns the pages flowing between the sometimes deceivingly brutal tale. Explanation must be held first, before anything can be surmised. This is a book of the Eternal Champion, a being that always exists in multiple realms of the multi-verse The Champions function is to tip the scales, so to speak, in favor of the Balance – sometimes fighting on the side of Chaos, an ever changing, wave of change and destruction; sometimes fighting on the side of Order, a creeping stagnation of law and intolerance to change. Neither force dominates the multiverse for very long, and the Eternal Champion fights to restore the Balance between Order and Chaos such that neither gains the upper hand, Fickle gods play, with humans as their pawns to promote Order or Chaos, and thwarting them at every step, the Champion rides forth, either on the side of Order or the side of Chaos. Such being said. Corum in the Sword and the Stallion, as well as his previous adventures, champions the side of law against the Fhoi Myore and their never ending winter that lays waste to that which it covers.
Moorcock’s books are simple to read and thoroughly enjoyable, with a strong undertone of the philosophical in his writing. The prose flows off the page and the diction places you in the world you can concretely experience. The characters, by book six, are well developed, and totally three-dimensional in their execution. Every character, be it born of madness or love, speaks with an assured voice and mindset of their own. And the three protagonists in the works – Corum, Ilibrec and Goffanon, even the companion to champions Jhary-a-Connel (a play on Jerry Cornelius, another of Moorcock’s famous Champions?) carry the novel through in traditional epic, pulp proportions. The sharp writing and wit of both the prose and the dialogue, amongst the characters, propagate this novel through to the ever fateful last stand between the Mabden and the Fhoi Myore.
Needless to say, this book doesn’t hold well up on its own. Starting at Book I, in which the Prince with the Silver Hand is first introduced, and his adventures that lead him up to this climax is almost essential. This time it is actually good to start at Book One and Proceed through the series, in its two arcs – Corum, and The Prince with the Silver Hand. With that knowledge in tow, you are well prepared for this adventure into the fantastical. Most people are more familiar with Moorcock’s Elric Saga, but Hawkmoon and Corum, also play a crucial role in the guise of the Eternal Champion Saga, as do many others bearing the mantle.
Discerning fantasy readers will gravitate towards this series immediately. Others, who are willing to try out something new, should also give the Chronicles of Corum a spin. The Sword and the Stallion, being the ultimate book in the series, will sir well with readers familiar with the previous five. Fans of Lieber, Frazzerra, and the like will also find this book appealing. Kudos to Moorcock for the re-release of a fantastic, epic novel.
August 6, 2012
Originally published on my blog here& in August 2000.
The second trilogy of Corum novels ends on a distinctly bitter note. The Sword and the Stallion is sombre throughout, and almost amounts to a campaign against the idea of the hero, particularly against the concept of the Eternal Champion so important in Moorcock's work. This trilogy is particularly influenced by Irish mythology, which seems to have a more ambivalent attitude to heroism than that of many cultures.
Continuing his seemingly hopeless struggle against the Fhoi Mhore, Corum needs to seek new supernatural allies before the humans he is aiding are destroyed. Captured in an illusion by those whose aid he sought, he is rescued by the arrival of an enemy, the evil wizard Calatin. Then he discovers that in the months that have passed in the outside world, Calatin has created a double of Corum, who has fought against his friends, convincing them that Corum has become a traitor.
The trilogy, because of its downbeat tone, is one of Moorcock's most impressive works, unusual in his output. It is a depressing read, however, with its message that heroes are no longer necessary or even desirable. From here on, Moorcock's novels become much more ambiguous and literary in character; he has shaken off some of the ideas from popular literature which inspired his earlier writing.
The second trilogy of Corum novels ends on a distinctly bitter note. The Sword and the Stallion is sombre throughout, and almost amounts to a campaign against the idea of the hero, particularly against the concept of the Eternal Champion so important in Moorcock's work. This trilogy is particularly influenced by Irish mythology, which seems to have a more ambivalent attitude to heroism than that of many cultures.
Continuing his seemingly hopeless struggle against the Fhoi Mhore, Corum needs to seek new supernatural allies before the humans he is aiding are destroyed. Captured in an illusion by those whose aid he sought, he is rescued by the arrival of an enemy, the evil wizard Calatin. Then he discovers that in the months that have passed in the outside world, Calatin has created a double of Corum, who has fought against his friends, convincing them that Corum has become a traitor.
The trilogy, because of its downbeat tone, is one of Moorcock's most impressive works, unusual in his output. It is a depressing read, however, with its message that heroes are no longer necessary or even desirable. From here on, Moorcock's novels become much more ambiguous and literary in character; he has shaken off some of the ideas from popular literature which inspired his earlier writing.
September 15, 2021
This was the first book Michael Moorcock wrote that I read, but it didn't register with me because I was 13 when I started reading books for fun. My parents were still going through their divorce and my dad was showing his true colors, it was hard for me to enjoy anything.
I especially loved the depiction of death in this book. It was my first introduction to imaginary gods (that is to say, gods created well after the Bronze Age of civilization.) Even before I realized Marvel and DC comics were making up their own gods. Darkseid was just another villain to me, I hadn't grasped his entire backstory yet.
But yeah, I love this book and I need to reread it soon.
I especially loved the depiction of death in this book. It was my first introduction to imaginary gods (that is to say, gods created well after the Bronze Age of civilization.) Even before I realized Marvel and DC comics were making up their own gods. Darkseid was just another villain to me, I hadn't grasped his entire backstory yet.
But yeah, I love this book and I need to reread it soon.
April 8, 2015
I don't find the quest for the Malibann to be quite as Celtic-feeling as some of the earlier stories in this second trilogy, but this is still a fair ending to Corum's second trilogy. Where it excels, however, is in the last chapter which not only pays out the prophecies of the entire trilogy but also creates one of the most shocking and memorable endings in fantasy fiction.
January 9, 2018
نهاية الثلاثية الثانية لكورم، ونهاية حكاية البطل كورم ذاتها، ورغم أن هذا الجزء قد فاق الاجزاء السابقة في الوصف والخيال والمعارك، إلا ان الصفحات الأخيرة من الرواية ازعجتني؛ يميل موركوك إلى معاملة أبطاله بقسوة بعد انتهاء مهمتهم، ولكن ربما أحببت نهاية إيلرك أكثر من كورم، ولكن تفوق موركوك على نفسه في الوصف والحبكة هذه المرة يعجلني أغفر له تلك الصفحات الأخيرة.
April 19, 2020
La conclusion du cycle de Corum est bien triste. On y aperçoit un héros qui tout en luttant pour qu'un nouveau jour se lève, sent confusément la fin arriver. Et que fait un héros l'issue à tâchez est accomplie ? Eh bien dans le cas de ce roman, il meurt. Et c'est triste. Mais c'est aussi fort beau, et juste, et poignant.
August 3, 2021
The Sword and The Stallion is an amazing conclusion to the 2nd Corum series. It is tragic but captivating. Something that I have rarely seen performed well nowadays.
There are parts of the novel that are a little rushed, but how everything concludes was handled so brilliantly that you just can't help but overlook those few flaws.
I can't wait to sink my teeth into another Moorcock novel.
There are parts of the novel that are a little rushed, but how everything concludes was handled so brilliantly that you just can't help but overlook those few flaws.
I can't wait to sink my teeth into another Moorcock novel.
October 31, 2015
Very fun read of another great adventure featuring Corum. He has to help defeat an ancient enemy before they overrun the world and turn it into a lump of ice, but first he must find allies and magical items to help him along the way...
September 21, 2020
WTF. I’m not sure if this is a brilliant homage to the Celtic mythic tradition or Michael Moorcock is just trolling his audience. Either way, great stuff. There’s lot to think about here with all the philosophic symbolism.
May 28, 2010
I'm sure it would have helped having read the other books in this series. I guess this wasn't particularly memorable.
June 28, 2011
Corum's adventures are fantastic, if a bit sad in tone.
May 18, 2021
One of the most remarkable, realistic and shocking endings I've ever read in fantasy. Moorcock's best book by far!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 4, 2014
Pretty good, sword and scorcery.
December 29, 2014
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