496 pages, Paperback
First published January 7,2006
"Ilium - l'assedio" is not a valuable book in itself because it is only half of a novel (the original is a single work with the second part that was published separately in Italy under the title "Ilium - la rivolta"), cut off between one chapter and the next when all of its storylines are still evolving.
While waiting to read the conclusive part, so far only a few things can be said and with the benefit of inventory: Ilium is in every respect a science fiction novel, with a strong dose of technology (which sets it apart, for better or worse, from fantasy) and, contrary to expectations, it has nothing to do with time travel: the various events (including the one that in some way mirrors the Trojan War) coexist in the same temporal continuum, in what way we will know in the next installment...
For now, there is the impression that the narrative emphasizes the playful and bizarre aspects, with the Greek and Trojan "heroes" and the gods who appear a bit like comic book characters, without any depth other than the suggestion determined by the grandeur of the names and what they will reverberate in our school memories.
Perhaps this account does not do full justice to Dan Simmons considering that these same characters drawn so far in a superficial and parodic way (nor did the author want to compete with Homer, I believe...) are certainly destined to interact with the other narrative levels and this could give new oxygen to a story that so far shows a bit of wear...
This is a great story! It is an extremely interesting blend of stories, records, scenes, and situations that fit together in a narrative that is both intertwined and enjoyable to read.
The author has done a remarkable job of weaving these various elements into a cohesive whole. Each story and record adds depth and complexity to the overall narrative, while the scenes and situations bring it to life.
Readers will be drawn in by the engaging plot and the well-developed characters. They will find themselves immersed in the world created by the author, eager to discover what happens next.
Overall, this is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a good story. It is a masterful work of literature that will leave a lasting impression.
I really like that three different argumentative lines are developed. As the story progresses, we see how they are connected to each other. The characters are extremely interesting. And as a fan of the classics, I must say that I love the new versions, especially when they are so original.
The development of these three argumentative lines adds depth and complexity to the story. It keeps the reader engaged and curious to see how they will unfold and intersect. The interesting characters further enhance the appeal of the narrative, making it easy for the reader to become invested in their fates.
For me, as a lover of the classics, the new versions offer a fresh perspective and a unique take on familiar stories. When they are as original as this one, they can breathe new life into the classics and introduce them to a new generation of readers. It's exciting to see how modern interpretations can bring out the timeless themes and values of the originals while also adding something new and exciting.