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This is a masterpiece of the post-apocalyptic epic genre. McCammon tells the story about the aftermath of a nuclear war, when Earth’s last survivors have been drawn into the final battle between good and evil. Written in the 80's, when presidents of both sides declared the other side an "Evil Empire" and threatening nuclear assault on their counterparts.
The genre this novel is regarded as is dependent on the reader: fantasy, Science fiction, horror, fairy tale. But for myself it is ultimately a story of hope.
The story focuses on an antagonist known as the Man with the Scarlet Eye, a malevolent being manipulating his followers’ nefarious appetites while seeking an innocent girl named Swan. His goal is to eradicate her. ‘Hope hurts me,’ he said. ‘It’s a disease, and you’re the germ that spreads it. We can’t have disease at my party. Oh, no. It won’t be allowed.’
The book presents an ensemble cast
Josh, the pro wrestler known as Black Frankenstein, who takes refuge from the nuclear fallout at a Nebraska gas station
Swan a young girl possessing special powers, who travels alongside Josh to a Missouri town where healing and recovery can begin with Swan’s gifts.
Sister Creep, a former bag lady who discovers a strange and transformative glass artefact in the destroyed Manhattan streets and joins Josh and Swan in their travels.
Arthur a gentle salesmen and Sister's companion who adds depth to her character and aids the group on their journey.
Paul a failed poet.
Killer: A loyal dog who joins Swan and Josh, symbolizing companionship and fidelity amidst chaos.
Mule: A horse that becomes part of the group, enhancing their survival as they navigate the wasteland.
On the side of evil, Colonel Macklin and Roland Croninger leaders of the Army of Excellence, a brutal force seeking domination. Their savage approach to survival reveals the harsh, unforgiving nature of a shattered society.
In my opinion, Swan is one of the most appealing heroines I have encountered. Swan is like a light in the dark, in spite of the horrifying depiction McCammon creates. Swan, Josh, and Sister encounter numerous challenges, from monstrous creatures to hostile survivors, their courage resonates throughout the narrative.
Robert McCammon crafts a narrative filled with layers of complexity, character depth, and moral dilemmas. Swan Song is not perfect, it is slow in parts and some characterizations and romance may appear weakly drawn, but I can honestly say I never once found myself bored and progressed through the book at a steady pace.
For many comparisons are made to [b:The Stand|149267|The Stand|Stephen King|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1213131305l/149267._SX50_.jpg|1742269] by Stephen King, but for myself I compare other post-apocalyptic novels to this well written epic and have yet to find one that equals my enjoyment that this novel provides. Robert McCammon in my humble opinion is one of the best and is often under-rated as a writer.
The genre this novel is regarded as is dependent on the reader: fantasy, Science fiction, horror, fairy tale. But for myself it is ultimately a story of hope.
The story focuses on an antagonist known as the Man with the Scarlet Eye, a malevolent being manipulating his followers’ nefarious appetites while seeking an innocent girl named Swan. His goal is to eradicate her. ‘Hope hurts me,’ he said. ‘It’s a disease, and you’re the germ that spreads it. We can’t have disease at my party. Oh, no. It won’t be allowed.’
The book presents an ensemble cast
Josh, the pro wrestler known as Black Frankenstein, who takes refuge from the nuclear fallout at a Nebraska gas station
Swan a young girl possessing special powers, who travels alongside Josh to a Missouri town where healing and recovery can begin with Swan’s gifts.
Sister Creep, a former bag lady who discovers a strange and transformative glass artefact in the destroyed Manhattan streets and joins Josh and Swan in their travels.
Arthur a gentle salesmen and Sister's companion who adds depth to her character and aids the group on their journey.
Paul a failed poet.
Killer: A loyal dog who joins Swan and Josh, symbolizing companionship and fidelity amidst chaos.
Mule: A horse that becomes part of the group, enhancing their survival as they navigate the wasteland.
On the side of evil, Colonel Macklin and Roland Croninger leaders of the Army of Excellence, a brutal force seeking domination. Their savage approach to survival reveals the harsh, unforgiving nature of a shattered society.
In my opinion, Swan is one of the most appealing heroines I have encountered. Swan is like a light in the dark, in spite of the horrifying depiction McCammon creates. Swan, Josh, and Sister encounter numerous challenges, from monstrous creatures to hostile survivors, their courage resonates throughout the narrative.
Robert McCammon crafts a narrative filled with layers of complexity, character depth, and moral dilemmas. Swan Song is not perfect, it is slow in parts and some characterizations and romance may appear weakly drawn, but I can honestly say I never once found myself bored and progressed through the book at a steady pace.
For many comparisons are made to [b:The Stand|149267|The Stand|Stephen King|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1213131305l/149267._SX50_.jpg|1742269] by Stephen King, but for myself I compare other post-apocalyptic novels to this well written epic and have yet to find one that equals my enjoyment that this novel provides. Robert McCammon in my humble opinion is one of the best and is often under-rated as a writer.