THE NAME OF THE WIND discussion

Discussion exclusively for chapters 46 to 60. No spoilers for any chapters beyond that. :)

I'm always repeating myself at the beginning of these chapter discussions, but damn, I'm enjoying it so much. I am more and more intrigued by Pat's narrative choice of flashbacks, because as a reader you know that Kvothe survived his years at the University and did all sorts of crazy shit afterwards (e.g. burned down the town of Trebon), and so I'm thinking that the „real story“ will be about grown up Kvothe... I mean we learn at the beginning that he is awaiting his death, and I can't wait to see that, and get to the present time... But nonetheless, his youth is soo interesting and makes up for a captivating story in itself.

I really love the University as a setting, it is soo complex, and I feel like we have lots left to explore. I would love to learn more about the masters, especially Elodin, because damn, he is crazy af, but has an intriguing depth to him! When Kvothe is visiting the Crookery with him, trying to convince him to become his apprentice, I genuinely thought it would work out... Guess I was wrong and we had one of the best scenes so far... First of all, Elodin breaking the wall by calling its name. Badass level 10000. Second of all, Kvothe jumping off a fucking roof because he had faith in Elodin and Elodin was just like nah „this was the stupidest thing I've ever seen“. I was laughing soooo hard, it was such a comical scene. :D I really appreciate how Pat is trying to go against stereotypes and this generic way of storytelling, having a hero who accomplishes everything after a few trials.

Apart from that I love how relatable the studying aspect is. Kvothe is overestimating himself and his friends fear that he'll burn out, therefore they go talk to the masters. It was so nice and made me feel all warm and fuzzy inside. In general I love his group of friends and how intimate they are with one another. Again, I might be reading too much into the subtext, but I'm getting a gay vibe from Simmon as well... Anyone else? :D

But of course, the two big themes of these chapters were music and girls, or „the girl“ (how Kvothe would put it). I am a musician as well (or at least I play the piano passionately...), and I could relate to Kvothe's feelings as well. I love that music isn't simply a „hobby“ to him, but much more of a lifestyle. He is breathing music, it gives him fuel. It was wonderful to witness him getting a lute back and being able to play again. And so many little things made me so giddy and happy, e.g. the fact that Kvothe didn't wanna play in front of his friends at first, because their judgement was of most value to him, and he didn't wanna present them something lukewarm. So relatable!
And then of course the most wonderful thing that happened, Kvothe playing at the Eolian and earning his pipes. I was sooo apprehensive of this moment, I honestly thought something would go wrong – then when his string broke, I was like OH NO that's over then, but NO, my little trash child can make the best of every situation. I was soo happy for him. Stanchion and Deoch seem super nice, and I can wait for Kvothe to find a patron!

So, the three girls that we are introduced to are Auri, Devi and „Dianne“ (DENNA!). I have to say that I love Auri, I hope that she'll play a bigger role in the future, because I can really see her becoming friends with Kvothe. She mentioned the underground and that she is living there. I'd love to explore that side of the University! Then Devi, she is quite the badass. I love that she is taking no one's shit and stands very firm in her beliefs, and how she makes business. The entire tuition/debt thing was very interesting to me, because it showed that not only Kvothe but other students are struggling with money as well. And then finally, Denna. I was sooo surprised to see her re-introduced into the story. Kvothe had said earlier „I knew I would never see her again“, and I believed him – call me a fool. ;) I am very grateful that (at least as of now) it doesn't seem that this will become an epic lovestory (I'm not a fan of those), and that Pat will Focus more on the FANTASY aspect of the story than on the ROMANCE. Hallelujah! Nonetheless, I liked to see Kvothe blushing and being all confused because at his tender age of 15, he is completely inexperienced and doesn't know shit about women. I can totally see the two of them getting together, but as grown up Kvothe already mentioned, destruction is under way, he was betrayed and it didn't last. I can't wait to see their relationship blossom and burn out!

Favorite quote:

Music is a proud, temperamental mistress. Give her the time and attention she deserves, and she is yours. Slight her and there will come a day when you call and she will not answer. So I began sleeping less to give her the time she needed.