The Last Wish

Summary

The book "The Last Wish" by Andrzej Sapkowski is a collection of stories linked by a common narrative about Geralt of Rivia, a witcher. Geralt is a mutant and monster hunter with supernatural abilities. The book details his adventures, encounters with various creatures and people, as well as the moral dilemmas he faces. Each story reveals different aspects of the world Geralt inhabits and his internal struggles. The central theme is the battle between good and evil, as well as the search for one's place in a world where the lines between these concepts are blurred.

Main Ideas

• A world where humans, elves, dwarves, and other fantastical creatures coexist, and where magic is part of everyday life.
• The main character, Geralt of Rivia, a witcher who makes a living hunting monsters, faces moral and ethical dilemmas that challenge his own beliefs and principles.
• The theme of destiny and predestination, explored through the concept of the "Law of Surprise," which intertwines the fates of the characters.
• The relationships between humans and non-humans, including prejudices, discrimination, and conflicts arising from racial differences.
• The idea that good and evil are not always clear-cut, and that moral decisions are often complex and ambiguous.
• The role and place of witchers in society, their isolation, and the misunderstanding they face from ordinary people.
• The importance of choice and its consequences, both for individual characters and the world at large.

Historical Context and Significance

The book "The Last Wish" by Andrzej Sapkowski is the first in the series about Geralt of Rivia and serves as a collection of stories that lay the foundation for the entire saga. It played a significant role in popularizing the fantasy genre in Eastern Europe and beyond. Sapkowski created a unique world that combines elements of Slavic mythology, folklore, and medieval history, setting his works apart from other fantasy sagas. Geralt, the main character, became an iconic figure symbolizing the moral dilemmas and difficult choices faced by individuals in a world filled with magic and monsters. The book's influence extended to other media, including successful video games and television adaptations, which contributed to the growing interest in Polish culture and literature on the international stage.

Main Characters and Their Development

• Geralt of Rivia - the main character of the book, a witcher who travels the world taking contracts to slay monsters. He is portrayed as a complex and multifaceted character who struggles with internal conflicts and moral dilemmas. His character is revealed through various adventures and encounters with other characters.
• Yennefer of Vengerberg - a powerful sorceress who plays a significant role in Geralt's life. Their relationship is complex and passionate, adding depth to both characters. Yennefer is depicted as an independent and strong woman who seeks power and control over her destiny.
• Dandelion - a bard and close friend of Geralt who accompanies him on some adventures. He adds humor and lightness to the narrative and helps reveal Geralt's more human sides.
• Nivellen - a man turned into a monster whom Geralt encounters in one of the stories. His story explores themes of love, curses, and redemption.
• Calanthe - the queen of Cintra, a wise and decisive ruler who appears in one of the stories. She demonstrates political acumen and maternal care for her granddaughter Ciri.

Style and Technique

The book "The Last Wish" by Andrzej Sapkowski is characterized by a unique style that blends elements of fantasy and Slavic mythology. The language of the work is rich and varied, using archaisms and dialects, which gives the text authenticity and depth. Sapkowski masterfully uses dialogues to reveal character traits and advance the plot. Literary techniques include irony, sarcasm, and allusions to well-known mythological and literary plots, making the text multilayered and intriguing. The narrative structure is nonlinear, consisting of several interconnected stories united by the figure of the main character — the witcher Geralt. This allows the author to explore various themes and aspects of the world in which the events unfold, creating a rich and complex universe.

Interesting Facts

• The book consists of several stories woven into a single narrative that serves as a prologue to the main Witcher saga.
• The main character, Geralt of Rivia, is a witcher — a mutant with supernatural abilities specializing in monster hunting.
• The book features various mythological creatures and folklore motifs that the author has adapted and reimagined in his unique style.
• One of the stories, "The Lesser Evil," is a reinterpretation of the Snow White fairy tale, where Geralt encounters a princess turned ruthless bandit.
• The story "A Question of Price" reveals how Geralt became linked to the fate of Ciri, one of the key figures of the entire saga.
• The book explores themes of morality, destiny, and humanity, often placing Geralt before challenging ethical choices.

Book Review

"The Last Wish" by Andrzej Sapkowski is the first book in the Witcher series, which has captured readers' hearts with its unique blend of fantasy, mythology, and philosophical reflections. Critics note that Sapkowski masterfully creates a world full of magic and monsters while not forgetting about human emotions and moral dilemmas. Geralt, the main character, is portrayed not just as a monster hunter but as a complex individual forced to make difficult decisions. The book's structure, consisting of separate stories, allows for a deeper immersion into the world of the witcher and his adventures. Many critics highlight that Sapkowski skillfully uses elements of Slavic mythology, giving the work a special color and atmosphere. The author's language is rich and expressive, making the reading captivating and engaging. Overall, "The Last Wish" is considered one of the best books in the fantasy genre, which not only entertains but also prompts reflection on the eternal questions of good and evil.