Andrzej Sapkowski Talks New Witcher Books, Future Adaptations, and More
We interviewed The Witcher author Andrzej Sapkowski, who says the "sky is the limit" when discussing new novels following Geralt, more short stories, and potential future adaptations. His latest novel, Crossroads of Ravens, follows Geralt in his formative years and has recently been adapted into a full-cast audio drama.
Andrzej Sapkowski recently discussed his new Witcher novel, Crossroads of Ravens, and future adaptations during an email interview with David French, the English translator of Crossroads of Ravens. Sapkowski, known for his sharp wit and scholarly approach, shared insights into writing Geralt's early years, the differences between young and old Geralt, and the mentor relationship between Geralt and Preston Holt.
Writing Geralt's early years proved challenging for an author nearly 80 years old, as he had to step into the shoes of an eighteen-year-old teenager. Sapkowski enjoyed seeing Geralt in moments of genuine panic and his ability to make quick decisions in high-pressure situations. He felt it was refreshing to write Geralt in situations where he wasn't fully prepared for the challenges ahead.
Sapkowski aimed to give Geralt fallibilities, such as susceptibility to err, making him more relatable and interesting. The biggest differences between young and old Geralt lie in his lack of experience, harsh life lessons, and the growth that accompanies overcoming obstacles. Sapkowski sees the prequel as a classic rite of passage, a common trope in the fantasy genre.
The relationship between Geralt and Preston Holt was fascinating to explore, as it explores the classic mentor-mentee dynamic. Sapkowski chose Preston Holt as a surrogate father figure for Geralt, but acknowledged that Holt is a deceitful mentor compared to other figures like Vesemir. Sapkowski draws on fables and folklore, evolving his approach with each new work.
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