Smiley's Podcast: Recent Episodes

Smiley's Podcast

A podcast meant for semi serious conversations on all things Malazan (and an occasional non-Malazan topic). The world of Malazan is a fictional one created by authors, friends and anthropologists, Steven Erikson and Ian C. Esslemont. They have published more than 2 dozen critically acclaimed, fan favourite books set in this universe. We, the hosts Lee and Mora, are avid fans of the series and this podcast is but a peek into the many conversations we have about this fascinating topic.

[INFORMATION REQUESTED] Holy shit you guys are still alive?

It's been a hot minute since we last posted, friends, and while this particular Cradle episode has been stewing for some time, we finally did get around to posting it. Uncrowned is a while back, but we still look upon it fondly. If by fondly you mean "how dare you," then yes, very fondly.

Uncrowned marks the beginning of the tournament arc of Cradle, which if you know much about such things, means it's packed jam full of action. And, you know what? We're simple creatures. We like that.

Still, how dare you, Mr. Wight. You'll be hearing from our lawyers soon.

[Suggested topic: Smiley's socials. Continue?]

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[Suggested Topic: HOLY SHIT SMILEY'S IS BACK? HYPE]

[Don't get your hopes up yet.]

[Topic denied, report complete.]

[Spoilers MBotF]

If you've been in the Malazan sphere long enough, you've probably heard the adage "Kallor did nothing wrong" more than once. Turns out, those four words encompass whole avenues of discussion that one video couldn't possibly hope to tackle. But all in due time.

Inspired largely by our chat with AP about narration & his excellent videos on the subject.

His prologue close reading (spoilers for MoI): https://youtu.be/TCMsQIBGx_I?si=XEOxv8C6KhXqidMq

His "tragedy of the High King" (spoilers for all Malazan Books): https://youtu.be/Kb7Rwa_5SBM?si=m6wkr7LPtwzpimyN

And my recent discussions over on the Malazan subreddit (well, not quite "recent" per se, but this is a recurring subject), I figured I had to put my money where my mouth is & actually write/record something on the matter. I elected to do the latter.

This is the second attempt at doing so (due to technical errors on the first one) & it's rather sizeable (I'm quite loquacious, I am). I could (and perhaps, had I thought about it sooner, would) have split this episode along different lines, but for such matters you'll have to head over to more knowledgeable turf.

The excerpts discussed are the second prologue of Memories of Ice & a certain scene in Midnight Tides. What that tells us about Kallor & the characters present, how it plays into his making into a tragic figure, and how it ties back to the adage of "Kallor did nothing wrong."

If you, too, think Kallor did nothing wrong (or if you think he's the Malaz devil incarnate, or anything inbetween), please do reach out: smileyspodcast@gmail.com

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[Spoilers for All Malazan books]

[Mild spoilers for Book of the New Sun, Kushiel's Legacy, Farseer Trilogy & the Scarlet Letter (we're thorough, damn it!)]

Hello & welcome to a very special guest episode featuring AP, longtime viewer, supporter, and indirect (and now somewhat more direct!) mentor. AP surely needs no introduction, so let's get to more pertinent matters.

We spend the better part of an hour discussing non-Malazan related narration, narrative techniques, layers, and a host of similar aspects. It's a mesmerizing learning experience when someone as passionate & knowledgeable about a subject as AP talks about said subject at length (and I did make use of some of the things I learned here in my own writings!).

Most of our discussion revolves around Kharkanas, but we do spend quite a bit of time talking about the narration present in the Book of the Fallen and the different narrative layers present. I daresay I have a new perspective on matters - especially in Kharkanas - which I lacked before (you may note that Steve had a similar effect when we talked to him, as did Cam).

AP, you're always welcome to the Tavern - just say the word. And everyone else, thank you for listening (and you, too, are welcome in the tavern!)

Per that idea, feel free to reach out for an invitation and we'll be quite accommodating, one hopes: smileyspodcast@gmail.com

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[Information Requested: How dare you, Will Wight?]

Smiley's is back to Cradle, with one core question: How dare you, Will Wight?

Underlord's a damn fine book. Action-packed, lots of heartfelt moments, interesting worldbuilding, and we hate it for all those reasons. We here at Smiley's have taken a firm stand against authors making us feel things. Not us, no sir.

Jests aside, this book led to us devouring Uncrowned in a handful of days in spite of being tremendously busy. It's a really good book.

But still. How dare you, sir?

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[Suggested Topic: HOLY SHIT THEY'RE MAKING AN ANIMATION OF THIS THING? HYPE]

[Topic denied, report complete.]

Hello & welcome to our first (and hopefully not last) installment of the Smiley's Malazan Trivia Quiz! Lee, your host (that's me!) is joined by Mora, Wes, Nate of Podcast of the Fallen, and GB - all of which happen to be mods on the Malazan subreddit.

We actually go through a fair number of questions over quite a few rounds, and great times are (hopefully) had by all. There weren't any prizes (alas!) but the confirmation that your, uh, "mind palace is vast" indeed & the praise of all.

We hope you enjoy our impromptu wrap-up of 2023, that you have yourself a wonderful 2024, and join us in another year of Smiley's. Cheers!

If you want to participate in future quizzes- send us an email (we operate on a "first come, first served" basis): smileyspodcast@gmail.com

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[Spoilers All, or only MBotF, we dont know, its all a drunken haze]We decided to slack off and not read FoL. Instead here is a random discussion on Malazan curses, limited to the ones we see in BotF. Spoilers abound, so beware new readers.

If you want us to tackle curses that appear in NotME, PtA or Kharkanas- send us an email: smileyspodcast@gmail.com

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Don't you like it when chapters follow a certain thematic throughline that makes things easy? I know I do. We're back in the Citadel (or, at least, adjacent to it), and oh boy do we get going quickly. Rise Herat explores a dusty old room full of the shameful past, Orfantal explores sorcery to an unparalleled degree, Endest Silann sets off in search of decency, a goddamn dragon descends upon Kharkanas, the contingent of the Shake seeks to peruse the magic of the Terondai, and Caplo learns to heed his f***ing leopard instincts & to find some patience.

All that & more in this episode of Fall of Light, which ties in neatly to the next chapter where we mostly deal with Neret Sorr. Isn't it nice.

Heed your viewer instincts, friends, and send us an email: smileyspodcast@gmail.com

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What starts off as a somewhat innocent chapter - with the biggest idiot of Fall of Light taking centre stage - quickly devolves into a mess of shifting alliances, weird mysticism, unsettling flashbacks, and overall bizarre scenes (see Narad & Threadbare).

At least it ends the way it began; simply, with the biggest idiot of Fall of Light taking centre stage. Something of a staple of Erikson's writing - showing the PoV of a character about to die - comes up more than a few times in this chapter, as does the cryptic & vague prophecy that you feel you should know about but simply don't. Ah, well.

Also, the answer to the question in the thumbnail is "Yes."

Come one, come all, Draconus apologists & propagandists as well, and reach out to us: smileyspodcast@gmail.com

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Don't you just love when a chapter lays out its theme in the first paragraph? I sure do. Makes summarising very easy. However, we do suggest at least some booze on hand for this particular one; it gets... odd.

Meddling Azathanai, pride & innocence, childhood & grief, all entwine to give us what is arguably the most bizzarre chapter of Fall of Light thus far. Wreneck continues to be the MVP, while Rake, ah, well, "if it isn't the consequences of my actions."

Furthermore, Draconus' authority gets further undermined - because of course, poor bastard can't catch a break - at the hands of both his master-at-arms, and his ex. And a few more innocents are caught in the crossfire.

Even so, Rake's a dumbass - sorry not sorry - though he is learning that his actions often have consequences.

If you, too, are a connoisseur of the finest character work and recognize Wreneck & Prok's supremacy, reach out to us; we'd love to talk: smileyspodcast@gmail.comWould you prefer YouTube? https://youtu.be/9OAIlWNcbpYWant schedule updates? https://twitter.com/podcast_smileyWanna buy us a drink? https://ko-fi.com/smileys

[Spoilers for Kushiel's Dart, the Book of the New Sun (mild at best), the Malazan Book of the Fallen, and Forge of Darkness]Perhaps a bit of an unorthodox question, but one I feel is worth asking: Why is Kaminsod, what is his narrative significance, and why is he portrayed in the manner that he is ? At least as far as his [Redacted because of spoilers.]I'm contrasting Kaminsod to a few other unreliable narrators throughout books I've heard of & read about - Blind Gallan (Kharkanas), Phedre no Delaunay (Kushiel's Legacy), Severian (Book of the New Sun), Latro (Soldier of the Mist) - to find similarities, and differences.This is not the end - of course - but perhaps a Part One to an impending conversation on Kaminsod's narrative aspects.For more on how exactly Kaminsod recontextualizes the Book of the Fallen, I can wholeheartedly endorse AP's videos on the subject: (on that note, get well AP!) https://youtu.be/d5ZqQxIaWIc?si=O5KIOd_rsNxPKQkFAt least a partial measure of credit goes to Niflrog whose ideas I've probably leeched from by osmosis: https://youtu.be/L0qjIDcZK-I?si=ZTJukViGRCiJZ3afAnd our socials:Reach out to us - we promise we're reliable narrators with no ulterior motives: smileyspodcast@gmail.comWould you prefer my ruggedly handsome looks? https://youtu.be/bljlZwKPRjA

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This is the one where Lee geeks out about metallurgy for like half an hour (no kidding). The origins of the Hust blades, the arrival of two very, verily, verbose captains at the Hust camp, Galar being torn between caring for his lord & caring for his, ah, commander, and Wareth being one dense motherfucker. Add to that Faror Hend losing faith in this whole endeavour, and, well, here we are.

Seriously, though, this is one of the few times Lee's academical pursuits intersect with Malazan, and I just had to pounce on it. Forgive?

If you don't avoid ironworking talk like the plague, feel free to reach out: smileyspodcast@gmail.comWould you prefer YouTube? https://youtu.be/-qsRgp8svWsWant schedule updates? https://twitter.com/podcast_smileyWanna buy us a drink? https://ko-fi.com/smileys

[Information Requested: What makes Ghostwater the best book in the series so far]Holy Suriel! This book blew us away with the writing, the set up and the banger of a reveal that nobody saw coming. There were big epic fights, sassy banter, more magic and still has a heart at its core. Many new characters were introduced, some nice and some straight up tools. All in a day's work for our danger loving protagonists though. Lee actually read it twice while waiting for Mora to get to the audiobook- it really is that good. And I can confirm that this is one of the few episodes where we really couldn't wait to hit record. [Suggested topic: Smiley's Podcast socials. Continue?][Topic accepted, continuing report...]Reach out to [Smiley's]: smileyspodcast@gmail.comWatch [Smiley's] on : https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLB9jqMIAfCHY3VgOqmFYFQ9VKlOIkta1WReceive schedule [Updates]: https://twitter.com/podcast_smileyBuy [Smiley's] a drink: https://ko-fi.com/smileys[Suggested topic: Smiley's Podcast, Underlord. Continue?][Denied. Report complete.]

[Spoilers for All Malazan Books]Figured I'd record an impromptu After Hours episode to, ah, publicize my essay a little bit more. This is, admittedly, an unscripted episode, and thus is going to be a bit jumbled & all over the place. TL;DR Kallor is Edgewalker, here's why.In case you've missed it, the essay in question can be found here: https://www.reddit.com/r/Malazan/comments/15w9rze/on_edgewalkers_identity_and_a_bit_more/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3AP's incredible video on Kallor which does far more justice (ha) to him than I could: https://youtu.be/Kb7Rwa_5SBM?si=u_bqjLB5cgRRlbpOSocials:

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I like to call this one, the "what the fuck" chapter. The Deniers & Shake plotlines are more intertwined than ever, incomprehensible prophecies are uttered, the predators become prey, and to top it all off, we get an almost slice-of-life scene at Tulas' keep, where Kagamandra plots his vengeance against Silchas & Scara.

Oh, and Spinnock Durav Tiste-kisses (that's a verb now, yes) a dragon. So there is that. Lovely.

Prophecy? Fuck prophecy, but do reach out with us: smileyspodcast@gmail.com

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Some much required levity in this chapter (because it's about to plunge again), with a boy with freckles on his arms, a Thel Akai huntress, an undead guardian of an Azath tower, the stupifying fuckery of the Jaghut, and - of course - Korya & Arathan. Oh, and an Azathanai hiding amongst the Jaghut because - well, because of course.

Whatever the case, Mora & Lee are off to see a man with freckles on his arms. We hope you enjoy.

Wisdom may indeed be overrated, but our email is not: smileyspodcast@gmail.com

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[Warning for poor audio quality]

Through hardships & difficulties, the merry band of Mora & Lee persevere through yet another recording. Thankfully, this particular chapter was lower in stakes & so we spent the time laughing & giggling in exasperation, as this chapter feels apropos of nothing that came before it.

A similar merry group of misfits - Lasa's three husbands, Lasa & Hanako - come upon yet another misfit (that apparently walked through the lake floor!) and hilarities ensue. Amidst all the banter & explicit jokes, shocking tenderness (get your mind out of the gutter) arises, as we posit that the three husbands represent the three "main" forms of attraction; sexual (Garelko), romantic, and aesthetic. All three husbands love Lasa, and Lasa loves them in turn. Love all abound.

Oh, and there's a dragon in your garden, good sir. This chapter's fucking hysterical.

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As the last chapter dealt with the dwellers of the Citadel and a particular Azathanai amidst them, so does this chapter deal with the residents of Neret Sorr. Father Light, a man of many words but little action is accosted by Syntara & Sagander while his adopted daughter puts both of them on blast. Renarr finally opens up to the audience, though her thoughts are scant comfort. The captains of the Legion continue engaging in sordid acts - including Hunn Raal copulating with a campfire! - while young Sheltatha Lore is dispatched to the keep proper.

Lee also partakes of the last of his aqvavit, because he simply could not get through this chapter without it. We hope you enjoy our suffering.

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We find ourselves in the Citadel of Kharkanas for virtually the entire chapter, as the intrigue about unveils. Jaded poets mock, desperate historians plot, cheery Azathanai relate their bloody pasts, nobleborn seek easy routes to power, and children - a title independent of one's age - stumble blindly throughout.

All this and more, as narrated by Mora, with frequent interjections from Lee to nerd out about all sorts of things. Thus, we hope you enjoy!

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[Information Requested: Smiley's Podcast, Skysworn, Description.]

Beginning report...

Skysworn, an apparently rather divisive among the Cradle community, that perhaps can be adequately summed up as "feels." Will expands the world some more (this time without implicating Lindon!), finally gives us the promised duel, ups the ante a little, then ups the ante a lot going into the next few books. Lindon makes new friends, new enemies (lots of those), and eventually becomes a member of the titular Skysworn. Albeit a disliked one.

All in all, we enjoyed the book, despite the naysayers. Lots of feels, though.

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[Suggested topic: Smiley's Podcast, Ghostwater. Continue?]

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[Spoilers MBotF, NotME, FoD & FoL upto Chapter 9]

Mandy broods, Brood mopes, and the Dracons household is caught in the middle of the maelstrom. The Prazek & Dathenar stand-in arrives on scene, and wonderful conversations about the woes of faith, societal injustice, sorcery & healing, and a more comprehensive rundown of Gothos' arguments ensue. All the while, the duo of Brood & Rake meet Wreneck, who becomes Anomander's belated - and bloodthirsty - conscience. We also get a fairly interesting rundown on what Rake believes are "the necessities of proper rule," so there is that.

Exciting things ahead. We hope you enjoy!

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[Information Requested: Smiley's Podcast, Blackflame, Description]

Beginning Report...

Lee & Mora are back in Cradle, following a sixteen year old kid that doesn't know what "surrender" or "stop" means. Well, two of them, really. In this installment, Lindon unlocks the titular powers of Blackflame through contact with a turtle (Why a turtle?) all the while training for his inevitable duel. Eithan steals the show as he so often does (delightful) while a few more characters we came into contact with last book get fleshed out further.

In all, interesting things galore. Seriously, though, why a turtle?

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[Suggested topic: Smiley's Podcast, Skysworn. Continue?]

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Riders as ever engaged in civil conversation, crows of black & white abound, a reluctant bearer of bad news, an unlikely couple sheltering an estranged brother, and Captain Kellaras being given a bath for five Hood-damned pages. It's that kind of chapter.

Not very much happens in Chapter 8 of Fall of Light, but simultaneously, a lot of thing happen. It's a bizzare quirk of Kharkanas in that, when things seem to slow down to a halt, the buildup is in the character work, and the thematic exploration being done in the background.

Does that "excuse" Kellaras being bathed for five pages? Discuss.

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[Information Requested: Soulsmith, Smiley's Podcast, Description]

[Beginning report...]

Another day, another Cradle book flew by. A book that well & truly made Lee go "nope, nope, nope, not this, no thank you" with just how much shit Will puts Lindon through. The "most obnoxious character" in Cradle makes his first appearance, our two protagonists are put through even more shit than last book (an impressive feat, all told), and - well - our protagonist learns the titular art of Soulsmithing.

[Suggested topic: Smiley's Podcast socials. Continue?]

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[Report complete.]

[Spoilers MBotF, NotME, FoD, FoL Chapter 7]

And we are back, with verbosity & loquaciousness abound, though we highly suggest you watch/listen to the earlier episode as it follows directly from this, alas.

No matter; we return to the whore's tent, where the whore becomes a goddess - or something akin to it; to the unimaginative drunk awakening to dangerous power; and to the captain affecting cleanup of the Legion camp since civil war is, indeed, a messy business.

We do hope you enjoy nonetheless.

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[Spoilers MBotF, NotME, FoD, FoL Chapter 7]

Quite the loquacious man, is our Lee, to the point where this particular episode needed to be split in twain. Join us & be witness to the foul meeting between a Father & the unspotted Captain, one who styles herself Daughter Light & a truly horrid drunk, and perhaps the only good Issgin battling her own inner demons.

Incidentally, we are also stopping along the fault lines of the audiobook, with about the same amount of time allotted to our summary & analysis of the chapter as the audiobook. Lee has a lot to say, alright?

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So after a night of considerable drinking, and perhaps some less-than-rational decisions, we decided - eh, why not, let's sit down & record an episode on reading orders.

After we concluded that there is only one objective answer to this question & no dissent from common opinion shall be tolerated, we decided to at least entertain the possibility of dissenting from said common opinion. Intolerable! Heretical! THE SACRED TEXTS!

In spite of our transgressions, we do hope you enjoy this episode.

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In continuing with the "now the tale's tone must change" motif, we visit the Jaghut & observe their antics. Hood's army is gathering, and the Lord of Hate evidently disapproves of his methods. Arathan & Korya are stuck in the middle, and why do I make this sound so dramatic?

A group of Jaghut are arguing about themselves while Gothos is drinking tea. Korya - observing a bunch of humanoid blue people - decides it's a grand idea to test her "Mahybe" powers. Arathan is... angsty.

All this & more in this chapter. Stick around!

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What happens when two self-pronounced "hardcore" Malaz fans start reading Cradle? Chaos. Chaos ensues.

If there's one word to describe Cradle, it's "addictive." Or hilarious. Or "lampshading," insofar as the bloopers are concerned.

In short, it's a damn great series and we're just on Book 1 (technically at the time of publishing this, Book 2). We weren't really supposed to talk about it - it's more of a leisure read - but we finished it & decided we just HAD to.

Do note that this episode is more geared towards viewers that haven't really heard of us before, and therefore will have more... redundant bits for more regular viewers. We hope you enjoy nonetheless.

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[Spoilers MBotF, NotME, FoD]

And here, the tale's tone must change, and so must the tone of Smiley's podcast. Chapter Five gives us the mystical aura Kharkanas somewhat lacked due to everything being so... well-defined, provides some excellent levity in the form of Lasa Rook, and - perhaps most importantly - takes us to greener pastures compared to the doom & gloom of Kurald Galain.

In case it wasn't abundantly obvious by how much we laughed during this episode, it's a trip. But an enjoyable one. So kick back, relax, and enjoy.

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[Spoilers for ALL Malazan books as I do talk about the ending scene of FoL]

Why, long time no see, eh?

Join Lee today in a somewhat more rambly episode about Kadaspala's thoughts on art (wow, the artist has thoughts on art, who knew), how that reflects on the author as well as the in-world narrator (much more on the latter), what that stupid portrait portends, Kadaspala's art being a gauge of one's character, and a whole lot more.

Lee even invokes Basil Hallward of "Picture of Dorian Gray" fame, for an analogy that lasts about 30 seconds; though I do think there's some merit to making such comparisons.

Stick around to hear about the differences in style between the MBotF & Kharkanas, how the characters of both Gallan & Fisher are unveiled, as well as what Kadaspala's portrayal tells us about how Steve perceives art (which is to say, not much at all, since as mentioned above it says a lot more about Gallan), all by how we perceive this doomed artist.

Since you're here, you mind giving us any suggestions for a soothing herbal concoction? - smileyspodcast@gmail.com

If you'd rather see my rugged charms (Hood's breath): https://youtu.be/e1jbg81r4Dk

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This is a long one. Buckle up, kids.

From Caplo Dreem's incessant "Caplo-ing" (TM), the rise of an Eresal apparition, the incredibly cryptic flashbacks (and later flash-forwards) in the chapter, the stupid amount of double entendres ... you get the idea.

Chapter 4 is arguably one of the biggest mysteries of Fall of Light, and we're not even a quarter of the way through. Going from "lead unto me each & every child" to "Emurlahn" is a trip and a half. We suggest something strong - Lee helped himself to more than a little alcohol - and we also suggest you re-read the entire chapter, because we're guaranteed to have missed things. Seriously.

On the note of something strong, if you have any recommendations, send them our way: smileyspodcast@gmail.com

Would you prefer YouTube? https://youtu.be/yVHqrqBrH4c

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There will be justice. When that call came, echoing down the tavern, the two hosts of Smiley's thought it a sour joke.

Join us as we continue our exploration of Fall of Light, into the rearmament of the Hust Legion, the rise of the Last Fish & Denier of Life, Truth & Faith, into the pure heartbreak that is Wreneck, and beyond - to the shore, for each of us will come to the shore.

Lee also slips up in this episode but we took care to mute that part for fear of spoilers. Oops.

By the way, if you have a recipe for lemonade, send it our way: smileyspodcast@gmail.com

Would you prefer YouTube? https://youtu.be/4zwNX3e8Kio

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[Spoilers MBotF, NotME, FoD]

In this episode of Smiley's, we get to meet the unequivocally best duo in the Malazan world (citation needed), talk about symbolism until the sun stops shining, and complain - endlessly - about the machinations of the Tiste. Seriously, people, when did "talking it out" stop being chic?

This particular episode of Smiley's - as well as the entire book - is like a woman, deserving a second, or even a third, glance. (we are directly quoting from the book, don't cancel us!) Nonetheless, we hope you enjoy.

By the way, if you have a rec for herbal teas, send it our way: smileyspodcast@gmail.com

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And now, it begins. Fall of Light is a masterpiece and we can do justice only by limiting our discussions to one chapter per episode. Join us for the first one here and listen as Lee loses his shit at the appearance of his favourite malazan character.

And don't worry, there are a few technical difficulties to keep things interesting.

If you'd like to get in touch, find us here: smileyspodcast@gmail.com

If you'd prefer YouTube: https://youtu.be/B8pHfXSFCnw

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https://twitter.com/podcast_smiley

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Welcome to Part One - Part Two... Part One, Chapter Two... oh, don't worry about it - of Lee's series on Kadaspala Enes in the tavern's closing hours.

Spoiler scope extends to all of Fall of Light (albeit no explicit spoilers are mentioned, a lot of this won't make sense if you've not read the book), and I spoil the everlasting love out of Antigone - which you should read. It's great.

Note that this particular series works best on YouTube and it's edited accordingly; the audio may feel a tad jarring at times, because I need to reconcile the fact that I'm talking to a camera (and not somebody else), make the audio work for Spotify, while also putting on a show for YouTube. It's difficult, and I pray you bear with me.

Other than that, feel free to join me in decrying Creon as awful, throwing Urusander a bone (but not too much), and exulting Kadaspala (and Antigone) in this new episode of Smiley's After Hours!

Since you're here, you mind giving us any suggestions for a good chaser for straight whiskey? I'm (really) going to need it - smileyspodcast@gmail.com

Would you prefer my face actually talking into the camera? https://youtu.be/jMp_ecQGky4

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Welcome to the first installment of Smiley's After Hours, a mini-series where Lee monologues into the camera because he can't be bothered to post his essays elsewhere (no, really).

In this first installment - aptly named, "part zero," since it doesn't even get to the point in fourty minutes - we're discussing what makes tragedy, er, tragic, its defining traits, a few necessary terms to go forward, some tragic arcs in the Book of the Fallen, and how all this relates to Kadaspala Enes' arc in Forge of Darkness.

The spoiler scope for this episode (and probably series) is MBotF & Kharkanas (though I don't go extensively into details about FoL, it's best to keep my bases covered).

I hope you enjoy!

Since you're here, you mind giving us any suggestions for a good chaser for straight whiskey? I'm going to need it - smileyspodcast@gmail.com

Would you prefer my face actually talking into the camera? https://youtu.be/MfIWsbF5btA

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To our American audience still waiting on the Tor release of this book... we're sorry, because this is a damned good book.

Hello & welcome to our quick pit stop before our dive back into Kharkanas! Forge of the High Mage is a delightful, whimsical adventure with some surprising depth and nuance at certain points.

Of course, if you wanted nuance, you're barking up the wrong tree: half this episode is Lee giggling at the fact that there's a moving fucking mountain in this book. Thinking about it still makes me giddy.

In any case, PtA continues to make a strong case for being an excellent entry into the Malazan world, and Cam continues being - to use the technical term - "fucking awesome."

If you'd like to send us a few rum & coke recipes, find us here: smileyspodcast@gmail.com

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Our (occassionally) drunk escapades have landed us on the porch of Ladrac (u/ladrac1 on Reddit), the newest mod on the Malazan subreddit and - far more prestigious, obviously - the newest addition to the Smiley's Tavern list of customers of honour.

On this fair night we're discussing our collection of favourites from the Malazan Book of the Fallen (after having read through it at least twice - about seven times between the three of us). Shocking (and some less so) admissions, long-winded takes about why we like individual characters, a dive into how Lee structures his comments (seriously, we could've had a two hour episode on each of these characters individually, and it's high time we probably did), Mora holding the ramparts against the ruthless assault upon the good name of Karsa Orlong, and Nathan being an overall great sport - if nothing else, for putting up with our antics.

Three cheers for our friend, then, and one for all you joining us. The tavern is open, for real this time.

The offer for aquavit-based cocktails from last time still stands (we'll call them "business enquiries): smileyspodcast@gmail.com

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Join us as we drink (perhaps more than is healthy) and make future plans for season 3. There's a bit of soul searching and a lot of unwarranted criticisms of books we haven't liked. But mostly, it's just 2 friends and co-hosts catching up over a relaxed half hour.

Books we bring up: 1. Forge of the High Mage by Ian C Esslemont 2. Fall of Light by Steven Erikson 3. Legends and Lattes by Travis Baldree 4. Prince of Nothing by Scott Bakker 5. Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell by Susanna Clarke 6. Twilight series by Stephanie Myers 7. Kingkiller series by Patrick Rothfuss

By the way, if you have a recipe for Aquavit based cocktails, send it our way: smileyspodcast@gmail.com

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"There will be peace. No, really, trust me bro."

Well, folks, this is it, but for real this time. Our last discussion of Forge of Darkness, mostly drawing on our (unrelated) re-read of Toll the Hounds at the same time. Perhaps it shouldn't come as a surprise to anyone but Kharkanas and Toll the Hounds are awfully similar - cue shocked gasps - and thus, there's a lot of parallels to draw between the books.

We do also openly admit that this episode is purely self-indulgement; if you want to be reasonable about things, we could've called it quits on the last episode. But since when are we reasonable about things? Don't be absurd.

In any case, this marks the end of our second season tackling Forge of Darkness. Fall of Light resumes sometime in July - we do need to give you time to catch your breath! - along with a handful of other projects we'd like to tackle in the meantime.

We hope you enjoy!

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This is it, folks, our last summary episode on Forge of Darkness. The whole book has been quite a ride and these last handfuls of chapters don't let up, either. From Raal's machinations & Scara's amazing outburst, to Kadaspala's fucking excellent monologues (really, go read them, this episode isn't going anywhere), wrapping up in a poetic sense - "there will be peace." Civil war descends upon Kurald Galain as Hood's army prepares for their march upon Death. And amidst the chaos, two poets - and two podcasters - to recount the tale.

Until next time, then, folks.

We hope you enjoy!

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Our shortest discussion episode to date as we approach the ending of Forge of Darkness, because - to be fully fair - there isn't very much to discuss left. We still need to do Fall of Light, and if we use up all our material here...

Regardless, there's still a few things to say with regards to Syntara & company, as well as Ilgast and the now-placed-under-his-command Wardens. Chapter 17 itself doesn't have much - save for a long discussion on Narad, to be completed in FoL, probably - though Krissen does raise some fairly interesting questions.

Alas, we didn't have very much to say, and so.. here we are?

We hope you enjoy!

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Three yays for Tiste with no sense of irony. Subtlety is often lost in civil war - so said Gallan, probably - but this is pushing it. Also, Erikson introduces a brilliant character for about three pages before they're gone again. Classic.

Also, and perhaps the most important thing that happens in these chapters: incessant flirting - we're talking pages of the stuff - and monologuing. Spinnock thirsts, Tulas & Sharenas have chemistry for days, and Syntara is one politically savvy High Priestess. Also also, more Urusander, and that's always a treat.

All of this, and more, in our new discussion.

We hope you enjoy!

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And so to supplement the banter (and tragedy), what is a podcast to do but keep ripping into Draconus - deservedly, by the way - in his "headlong careening towards destruction"? It bears noting that - unfortunately - technical issues were present throughout the episode and somebody couldn't configure OBS to save their lives & thereby the audio in the end sounds kinda crap. Blame the rain, not us; we did the best we could.

Also, there's something quite cathartic about the Jaghut disagreeing with most contemporary philosophers about what "civilization" is and going their own way, supplemented in due part by Gothos. "No, actually, we don't have to be civilized, but there's nothing inherently good about the lack thereof, either. You're wrong, and you're wrong, you're all wrong!"

It's Jaghut all the way down.

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Well, we got past the hard mess, and onwards to better shores. Scara & Silchas bantering (#NotMyBloodeye), Rise Herat pondering for a good five pages, and the impending dread carrying over from Chapter 14. Three yays for Hish Tulla.

Also, more Arathan & Korya, which are always welcome - if nothing else, for Jaghut banter, whose levity is much needed in a chapter like this.

We hope you enjoy!

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[Spoilers upto chapter 14 of FoD]

This is just our attempt to wind down after those horrendous chapters. Join us if you want to listen to some decidedly non Malazan talk. For the most part only, since we do cave in and go off on Malazan tangents before the end.

Some of the books that were brought up-

Prince of Nothing by Scott Bakker
The Cradle series by Will Wight
Wheel of Time by Robert Jordan
Book of the New Sun by Gene Wolfe
Way of Edan by Philip Chase
Lord of the Rings by you-know-whoWe hope you enjoy!

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A more succinct representation of what we couldn't quite get into because we were too downtrodden from the chapters to actually discuss!

Kadaspala being a lens through which to view the entire book & how he touches upon the thematic elements of the book before anyone else does, or puts them with great clarity; Narad's fate & actions as well as his being the voice of reason; the Legion being overall awful, and how the lowborn often tend to get discarded and thrown aside, among many things.

These accursed chapters really are quite good. We just dread them too much.

We hope you enjoy!

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This is it, friends, the infamous chapter of Forge of Darkness. We released a trigger warning almost a week ago and we stand by it. This episode discusses some pretty dark shit in decently explicit language.

Other than that? Chapter 13 & most of 14 is wonderful. The imagery is incredibly evocative (for better or worse), the philosophy and monologues are fascinating, and the tragedy of the whole thing has reached an apex that Kharkanas hasn't yet reached. It's all downhill (or uphill?) from here, down to the shitmire of utter tragedy. And we're so ready.

We hope you enjoy!

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So, these chapters introduce Renarr. And if you've read the series - or listened to our interview with Erikson, hint hint - you probably know Renarr's quite important. And also, it has more of Vatha, and I kinda like Vatha. Sue me.

Also, Olar, Draconus & Arathan are doing their thing. And nobody here likes Olar, so here's Part Two of us cheering when she gets burnt to a nice crisp.

We hope you enjoy!

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So, these chapters just got... weird... And thankfully for our sanity, we're not going to bother to decode the symbolism at all. While Chapter 11 has all sorts of weird things going on, Chapter 12 is relatively straightforward. No less weird, I'll grant you, but at least we can make sense of it. And it's really good.

We hope you enjoy!

Those links we promised:

Cycladic statuettes: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cycladic_art

Dancing Girl (bronze sculpture of the Indus Valley civilization): https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dancing_Girl_(sculpture)

Human statuettes: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indus_Valley_Civilisation#Human_statuettes

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Join us as we ponder the effects - and potentially, the motivations - of T'riss' actions in these chapters, how wrong she is in her assertions, how childish Anomander is acting, and how Olar Ethil must well & truly be bullshitting us (and basking in the afterglow) after we see Burn. Neither of us is convinced of the efficacy of her words, and scant little is going to change our minds!

Oh, and just for your information, the only thing characters in Kharkanas with the respective characters in the BotF is the name. They're entirely different otherwise. We promise.

We hope you enjoy!

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Welcome to our thinly veiled excuse to drink with our friends. We figured that wouldn't be quite exciting enough, so we decided to watch and discuss a movie. Unfortunately, that movie was 2001 Space Odyssey, which we quickly realised benefitted immensely from another watch and/or reading the book. Lee, alas, did not watch the movie twice nor read the book. So, join us - Mora, Derek & Lee - as we delve into the mysteries & trivia surrounding a 55 year old movie (hot damn) and how much of an acid trip the whole thing was.Oh, and read the book if you want to actually understand the movie; feels like pulling teeth otherwise.At about 1:03:55, we were joined by Justin - who could not make it at first - and graced by his thoughts on the movie. We highly suggest sticking around until then.Want some YouTube? https://youtube.com/@smileyspodcastWanna talk? smileyspodcast@gmail.comWant schedule updates? https://twitter.com/podcast_smileyWanna buy us a drink? https://ko-fi.com/smileys

Shit really did hit the fan. Told you it would. Join us as we explore the actions of a certain Azathanai & the ramifications that will hold for Kurald Galain as a whole. Listen as the "sluttiest of all men" slut shames a child alley dancer; as "the defiance within him" is made manifest; and as Darkness is finally forged (ah? See what I did there?) Chapter 10 has shockingly little in the way of symbolism (reserved for every other chapter from there) but it does have a fairly interesting, if slightly jaw-dropping, reveal.

We hope you enjoy!

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Hello & welcome back, to more existentialism, and more philosophy, and more murder (gods below, so much murder). Come for thoughts on civilization, for talk about the Vitr, a new perspective on T'riss, and - of course - more bashing of Errastas for being a murderer. Also, Caladan & Grizzin meet, and their conversation - which was a bit hard to summarise - was great!

We hope you enjoy!

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So this was... a chapter. T'riss gets deeply existentialist, Ilgast Prude gives us a bit more exposition on the sorcery employed in Kurald Galain, and there's fucking dragons, there, too!

Also, something about the materialist versus the spiritual value of wealth - through the very literal metaphor of a mountain of gold being worth less than love or trust. Oh, and somebody gets murdered at the Spar of Andii. Fun!

We're getting pretty deep into Forge of Darkness, and - in classic Erikson fashion - things are picking up quickly (quite like last episode). We still have quite a ways to go (before things REALLY hit the fan), but from here on, things are getting, er, hairy.

We hope you enjoy!

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Join Lee & Mora for the implications of Sagander fucking around and finding out, Henarald's assertion about becoming a child once more, Kellaras & Galar - once again - being total bros, and Lee gushing over the implications of Urusander & Kadaspala's conversation and portrait.Links & socials:Niflrog’s post on Mythos & Eleint blood: https://www.reddit.com/r/Malazan/comments/wl6ye4/dark_side_of_the_moon_essays_on_kharkanas_i/?utm_medium=android_app&utm_source=share

Lee’s post on the final scene of Fall of Light: https://www.reddit.com/r/Malazan/comments/128w8pu/on_the_historicity_of_characters_in_the_kharkanas/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3

That rant about Sagander being unexceptional, unremarkable & banal is inspired by Hannah Arendt’s book, Eichmann in Jerusalem: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eichmann_in_Jerusalem#Banality_of_evil

Skeriphus’ excellent thoughts on just about everything Kharkanas: https://www.reddit.com/r/Malazan/comments/11ax3ee/comment/j9x01cg/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3

Our interview with Steve: https://youtu.be/ta_X6yvpMVY

Alex’s interview with Steve: https://youtu.be/w_NFjlgxR_I

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Spoilers may include MBotF & NotME, and up to Chapter Six of Forge of Darkness

Draconus is a piece of work, it seems, and his son suffers the consequences. Sagander fucks around and finds out in possibly the most satisfying display of gore in the series thus far. No, really, fuck this guy. Feren & Rint are actually a really decently written sibling duo, even if the former is being a bit creepy. Hurray for getting drunk - like half the Tiste we've seen thus far guzzle down like there's no tomorrow.

In any case, Forge of Darkness has kicked into high gear. We hope you enjoy!

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Join us as we discuss Chapters 3 & 4 of Forge of Darkness. Lee may - may - have just slightly lost his marbles during this ep, especially regarding Tiste ways & their innate ability to reach just short enough of a major breakthrough, only to screw it up in the final stretch. Spoiler alert: That continues throughout the series. And it's so frustrating. Makes for fun discussions, though.

Check out the summaries of this chapter here- https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/smileys-podcast/episodes/Forge-of-Darkness-Chapters-34--Summary-e21ugap

Next episode in the series covers Chapters 5 & 6.

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Lee's computer crashed, but the show must go on. Mora found Dan, one of the most enthusiastic Malazan new readers and sat down for a casual conversation. Spoilers upto the sub-book 1 of House of Chains. If you haven't yet, do check out Dan's Youtube channel over at- https://www.youtube.com/@UCG5qLfzLoS5nwQTWuvr00Hg

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Summaries of Chapters 3 & 4 of Forge of Darkness by Steven Erikson. Spoilers may include MBotF and NotME series.

Discussion part of this episode is coming soon.

Next episode in the series covers Chapters 5 & 6.

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Mora & Lee tackle the first couple of chapters in Forge of Darkness. Foreshadowing galore - but you knew that - and also, spoilers galore, but you knew that too. Be forewarned, this episode contains spoilers for all Malazan works, relevant or otherwise.

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Summaries of Chapters 1 & 2 of Forge of Darkness by Steven Erikson. Spoilers may include MBotF and NotME series. Discussion part of this episode is coming soon. Next episode in the series covers Chapters 3 & 4. Want some YouTube? https://youtube.com/@smileyspodcastWanna talk? smileyspodcast@gmail.comWant schedule updates? https://twitter.com/podcast_smileyWanna buy us a drink? https://ko-fi.com/smileys

So you have found us and would hear the tale...

Join us as we discuss the prelude to the Forge of Darkness, the first book in the Kharkanas series written by Steven Erikson.

For a 2 page piece of writing, the prelude packs a whole lot of lore, sets up the framing of the series, tempers your expectations, veers into metatextual commentary and is filled to the brim with quite quotable quotes. We just ran with it and you can see the results. I think Lee talks a lot.

We hope you have as much fun as we did in this episode. And please, join us in the conversation. Tell us your favourite/not so favourite parts of the prelude.

Heed well this tale we tell, listeners. Should you err, the subreddit will eat us alive.Wanna say 'Hi!' or give us feedback or have any questions for us, why not reach out? We are on Twitter - https://twitter.com/podcast_smiley, and on Reddit- Lee (u/Loleeeee), Mora (u/kashmora). You can also email us at smileyspodcast@gmail.com

If you haven't noticed, we have a YouTube channel too: https://youtube.com/@smileyspodcast

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We've been teasing this for about as long as there has been a Smiley's Podcast. And, through thick and thin, exams, Covid, two different series by Esslemont, three separate author interviews, AND the Witness trilogy (Gods, we did every series except for Kharkanas, didn't we?), we're finally tackling the beast known as the Kharkanas Trilogy.

The format is relatively simple: Each week (under ideal conditions), we'll be releasing two episodes concurrently. One is a summary and spoilerless discussion of the book thus far, as well as anything that stood out to us, while the second episode is a full spoiler (for both Kharkanas books & every other book in the Malazan mythos) discussion.

Our next episode is on the prelude of Forge of Darkness, and is unique in that we did not do full spoilers for the rest of Kharkanas insofar as that's possible.

We hope you join us!

Wanna say 'Hi!' or give us feedback or have any questions for us, why not reach out? We are on Twitter - https://twitter.com/podcast_smiley, and on Reddit- Lee (u/Loleeeee), Mora (u/kashmora). You can also email us at smileyspodcast@gmail.com

If you haven't noticed, we have a YouTube channel too: https://youtube.com/@smileyspodcast

[Mild spoilers MBOTF and NOTME] This is our end of book discussion of the third instalment of the Malazan prequel series, Path to Ascendancy by Ian C. Esslemont.

Lee sounds like a god damned broken record at this point. Our central duo in the books is starting to take more of a back seat in the story, but they're still hilarious. New blood takes the forefront, and old names arise once more to fill the gaps. Fun times are had by all... mostly.

Help yourself to reading PtA. These books are both hilarious & an excellent entry to the Malazan world.

Wanna say 'Hi!' or give us feedback or have any questions for us, why not reach out? We are on Twitter - https://twitter.com/podcast_smiley, and on Reddit- Lee (u/Loleeeee), Mora (u/kashmora). You can also email us at smileyspodcast@gmail.com

If you haven't noticed, we have a YouTube channel too: https://youtube.com/@smileyspodcast

[Mild spoilers MBOTF and NOTME] This is our end of book discussion of the second instalment of the Malazan prequel series, Path to Ascendancy by Ian C. Esslemont. Warning: Sureth/Surly simping galore.

Wanna say 'Hi!' or give us feedback or have any questions for us, why not reach out? We are on Twitter - https://twitter.com/podcast_smiley, https://twitter.com/mora_books and on Reddit- Lee (u/Loleeeee), Mora (u/kashmora). You can also email us at smileyspodcast@gmail.com

If you haven't noticed, we have a YouTube channel too: https://youtube.com/@smileyspodcast

[Mild spoilers MBOTF and NOTME] This is our end of book discussion of the first instalment of the Malazan prequel series, Path to Ascendancy by Ian C. Esslemont.

Wanna say 'Hi!' or give us feedback or have any questions for us, why not reach out? We are on Twitter - https://twitter.com/podcast_smiley, https://twitter.com/mora_books and on Reddit- Lee (u/Loleeeee), Mora (u/kashmora). You can also email us at smileyspodcast@gmail.com

If you haven't noticed, we have a YouTube channel too: https://youtube.com/@smileyspodcast

[SPOILERS ALL] We sat down with our Malazan best friend, Niflrog, for a freewheeling chat about how to approach our Kharkanas reread. We got a whole, full minute of that discussion before the booze kicked in and off we went on tangents leading to more tangents. Every good and nice character in the series has been disparaged and names have been dragged through the mud. I humbly suggest a stiff drink, or three, to accompany this episode.

If you haven't seen it before, check out Niflrog's folly on youtube- https://www.youtube.com/@NiflrogsFolly

Wanna say 'Hi!' or give us feedback or have any questions for us, why not reach out?

We are on Twitter - https://twitter.com/podcast_smiley, https://twitter.com/mora_books and on Reddit- Lee (u/Loleeeee), Mora (u/kashmora), Nif (u/Niflrog). You can also email us at smileyspodcast@gmail.com

Hey, we got Steve back! With both hosts this time!

Hello & welcome to our discussion about a whole host of things with Steven Erikson. From writing & worldbuilding advice, to his new rumoured book on writing and its mysterious editor, to mythology in the Malazan mythos (see what I did there?) centered chiefly on the Book of the Fallen & Kharkanas. This is the first in our set of episodes to somewhat set the tone (a prelude, if you will) to introduce our series on Kharkanas after wrapping up Path to Ascendancy.

Even if you've not read Kharkanas, however, you can still get something out of this episode. Timestamps for when we get into different spoiler sections are below.

Spoilers MBotF: 20:52

Spoilers FoD and mild spoilers for Witness trilogy: 31:45

Spoilers FoL: 01:13:15

If you haven't noticed, we have a YouTube channel too: https://youtube.com/@smileyspodcast

Wanna say 'Hi!' or give us feedback or have any questions for us, why not reach out?

We are on Twitter - https://twitter.com/podcast_smiley, https://twitter.com/mora_books and on Reddit- Lee (u/Loleeeee), Mora (u/kashmora). You can also email us at smileyspodcast@gmail.com

[No Spoilers] After a run of 25 episodes which included an entire series, lots of guests and even a couple of character deep dives, we felt it's time to introduce ourselves. As mentioned, we are starting the next phase of the podcast with Path to Ascendancy books by Esslemont and The Kharkhanas books by Erikson.If you haven't noticed, we have a YouTube channel too: https://youtube.com/@smileyspodcast Wanna say 'Hi!' or give us feedback or have any questions for us, why not reach out? We are on Twitter - https://twitter.com/podcast_smiley, https://twitter.com/mora_books and on Reddit- Lee (u/Loleeeee), Mora (u/kashmora). You can also email us at smileyspodcast@gmail.com

[Spoilers NotME]

Well, friends, this is it. We got the man himself. Ian Esslemont agreed to lend us some of his time to have a chat about all sorts of things. From the Novels, to writing styles, to influences on writing - the man is wicked smart & it shows.

We did face a couple technical problems that we have fixed by now, & so if some questions or parts of the audio are repeated, we humbly apologise.

Regardless, after twenty-five episodes, this marks the end of the first season of Smiley's. We'll be back soon - with a vengeance - to tackle some further books in the extended Malazan mythos. We'll probably be back for another chat with Ian by the time Forge of the High Mage comes out. The sky's the limit!

Thank you so very much for your continued support - we wouldn't be where we are now without you - and we hope you stay with us for the near future. Smiley's Season Two is coming soon: No more than a month, pinky promise! See you then!

Wanna say 'Hi!' or give us feedback or have any questions for us, why not reach out? We are on Twitter - https://twitter.com/podcast_smiley, https://twitter.com/mora_books and on Reddit- Lee (u/Loleeeee), Mora (u/kashmora). You can also email us at smileyspodcast@gmail.com

[Spoilers MBOTF and Spoilers NotME]Well, what do you know. We made it to the end. And Mora isn't... extremely impressed. Lee's love & appreciation of the book remains - could have to do with the fact that unlike the last book, it actually feels familiar - and we embark on a quest to convince Mora that the book is good, damn it. Listen in to find out about the fate of the Guard, Kyle, Fisher & Jethiss, the Icebloods & the admirals. Lee also goes on a long tangent about Shimmer & her grief, for what it's worth. Enjoy the ride!Wanna say 'Hi!' or give us feedback or have any questions for us, why not reach out? We are on Twitter - https://twitter.com/podcast_smiley, https://twitter.com/mora_books and on Reddit- Lee (u/Loleeeee), Mora (u/kashmora). You can also email us at smileyspodcast@gmail.com

[Spoilers MBOTF and Spoilers NotME upto first 7 chapters of Assail]Welcome back to our discussion on the final book of the Novels of the Malazan Empire, Assail. We see some old faces again - the Whiteblade, Fisher kel Tath, the Guard lads and lasses, Silverfox - and certain new faces, like Orman, Bregin's son & the rest of the northerners. We explore the continent of Assail together, while Lee tries to keep his mouth shut & not slip up on any spoilers. Join us, it's fun! Wanna say 'Hi!' or give us feedback or have any questions for us, why not reach out? We are on Twitter - https://twitter.com/podcast_smiley, https://twitter.com/mora_books and on Reddit- Lee (u/Loleeeee), Mora (u/kashmora). You can also email us at smileyspodcast@gmail.com

[Spoilers MBOTF and the NOTME upto Blood & Bone]Welcome to our final (sober, this time) discussion of Blood & Bone, the fifth book of the Malazan Empire. We discuss Mael being buff, K'azz & Skinner's capabilities as leaders, and why Kallor truly did nothing wrong. I will die on this hill.Wanna say 'Hi!' or give us feedback or have any questions for us, why not reach out? We are on Twitter - https://twitter.com/podcast_smiley, https://twitter.com/mora_books and on Reddit- Lee (u/Loleeeee), Mora (u/kashmora). You can also email us at smileyspodcast@gmail.com

[Spoilers MBOTF]

Tonight we're joined by Wes (u/Suxbois_420), Boronian (u/Boronian1) and Trai (u/TRAIANVS), of "the r/Malazan subreddit mod team" fame. Lee feels like a fish out of water, but I'm sure the beers helped!

We geek out about our favourite books, most wholesome scenes, favourite duos, and - as is often the case in Malazan - though we try to keep the episode light-hearted (again, being drunk probably helps), it inevitably took a turn for the melodramatic. Regardless, it was an absolute blast, and we wholeheartedly hope you enjoyed it as much as we did.

Check out https://reddit.com/r/Malazan

Wanna say 'Hi!' or give us feedback or have any questions for us, why not reach out? We are on Twitter - https://twitter.com/podcast_smiley, https://twitter.com/mora_books and on Reddit- Lee (u/Loleeeee), Mora (u/kashmora). You can also email us at smileyspodcast@gmail.com

[Spoilers MBOTF, first 4 books of the NOTME and upto Chapter 7 of Blood & Bone]

Welcome to our (ever so) slightly intoxicated discussion of the first seven chapters of Blood & Bone, the fifth novel of the Novels of the Malazan Empire. We dance about topics ever gracefully, always seeming to land on Master Golan. Curious, that. Regardless, we hope you enjoy our (slightly) drunk ramblings that gave rise to our namesake; it is a tavern, after all, and a sober proprietor is a sad one.

Wanna say 'Hi!' or give us feedback or have any questions for us, why not reach out? We are on Twitter - https://twitter.com/podcast_smiley, https://twitter.com/mora_books and on Reddit- Lee (u/Loleeeee), Mora (u/kashmora). You can also email us at smileyspodcast@gmail.com

[Spoilers MBOTF and TGINW] Check out Ro's amazing Malazan book reviews on the subreddit! (u/MaestRo6279) Welcome to Part Two of our discussion on the God is Not Willing, whence we chiefly tackle the Malazan Marines and related storylines. From Gruff & his darlings to Stillwater and her antics, to Oams and Spindle and Benger. Bonus for Lee getting triggered over thermodynamics violations because - quote - "we have MAGIC, motherfucker!"

Wanna say 'Hi!' or give us feedback or have any questions for us, why not reach out? We are on Twitter - https://twitter.com/podcast_smiley, https://twitter.com/mora_books and on Reddit- Lee (u/Loleeeee), Mora (u/kashmora). You can also email us at smileyspodcast@gmail.com

[Spoilers MBOTF and TGINW]

Check out Ro's amazing Malazan book reviews on the subreddit! (u/MaestRo6279)

Two Tamils & a Greek walk into Smiley's. Sounds like the start of a bad joke.

Welcome to Part One of our discussion on the God is Not Willing, whence we chiefly tackle the Teblor storylines. Which is awfully difficult when one of us hasn't been paying much attention to the Teblor storylines. Damn.

Regardless, we hope you enjoy our discussion, and we'll see you soon for Part Two!

Wanna say 'Hi!' or give us feedback or have any questions for us, why not reach out? We are on Twitter - https://twitter.com/podcast_smiley, https://twitter.com/mora_books and on Reddit- Lee (u/Loleeeee), Mora (u/kashmora). You can also email us at smileyspodcast@gmail.com

[Spoilers OST and the first 8 books from MBOTF]

"Almost now, almost" is finally here. Our second episode on Orb, Sceptre, Throne, continuing the theme of "masks and tyrants and Kruppe, oh my!" Listen in to learn which characters comprise the best couple in the city of Blue Fire, the fate of beloved characters & most importantly, the fate of Darujhistan itself!

To the tune of Fisher's Frail Age, join us in our exploration of the frail, uncrowned & doomed city tonight. See you in K'rul-... er, Smiley's.

Wanna say 'Hi!' or give us feedback or have any questions for us, why not reach out? We are on Twitter - https://twitter.com/podcast_smiley, https://twitter.com/mora_books and on Reddit- Lee (u/Loleeeee), Mora (u/kashmora). You can also email us at smileyspodcast@gmail.com

[Spoilers upto and including Chapter 12 of OST and first 8 books of MBOTF]

Come along for a long awaited visit to the City of Blue Fire, filled with familiar faces- some masked and some unmasked. Listen in as one of us is frustrated/impatient about all the cryptic setups while the other one is gleeful/smug about the same. And since we can't have a description of OST without the magic words, here they are- "Almost now, almost.."

It's a great book. Mora's frustration makes it all the better.

Wanna say 'Hi!' or give us feedback or have any questions for us, why not reach out? We are on Twitter - https://twitter.com/podcast_smiley, https://twitter.com/mora_books and on Reddit- Lee (u/Loleeeee), Mora (u/kashmora). You can also email us at smileyspodcast@gmail.com

[Spoilers Gardens of the Moon and Chapter 1 of Deadhouse Gates, plus Wheel of Time upto Dragon Reborn] [NSFW/Explicit Language Warning]

Join Lee and Mora as they sit down for a tavern style chat with Derek and Justin from D&J's Epic Quest. They have been reading the Malazan Book of the Fallen at the rate of 1 chapter per week with detailed and insightful discussions.

And by "tavern style chat" we mean that virtually everyone in this episode is intoxicated to a varying degree. From a single beer to three beers & counting, our heroes embark on a long discussion filled with perhaps too many two-handed sword jokes, an obscene amount of laughter, and a great time for all. Wonderful predictions, perplexing theories, jokes about all sorts of things, and overall the tavern atmosphere you've come to expect from Smiley's.

Check out Derek & Justin; the two of them are wonderful and such a dilligent read of the Book of the Fallen is, at the very least, commendable. Catch you next time, friends.

--

Talk to them at twitter: https://twitter.com/DandJepicQ

Check out their podcast at: https://anchor.fm/dandjepicquest

Wanna say 'Hi!' or give us feedback or have any questions for us, why not reach out? We are on Twitter - https://twitter.com/podcast_smiley, https://twitter.com/mora_books and on Reddit- Lee (u/Loleeeee), Mora (u/kashmora). You can also email us at smileyspodcast@gmail.com

[Spoilers upto Stonewielder]

Mora & Lee embark on an adventure discussing the medical aspects of "the bends," that scene with Ussu, and a few fake out deaths. Faith, worship, idols, colonialism, culture clash, and HOLY SHIT GREYMANE!

Please join our solemn vigil held out for Lord Protector Hiam tonight. We'll pour one out for the poor bastard. See you there.

Wanna say 'Hi!' or give us feedback or have any questions for us, why not reach out? We are on Twitter - https://twitter.com/podcast_smiley, https://twitter.com/mora_books and on Reddit- Lee (u/Loleeeee), Mora (u/kashmora). You can also email us at smileyspodcast@gmail.com

[Spoilers All, even the 1963 movie The Raven. Seriously!] Join me (minus my regular co-host) in this special episode with Steven Erikson where we had a casual, wide ranging conversation that covered everything from the Necromancer Novellas, updates on his upcoming books, the premise of Rejoice (2019), the origins of Lake Agassiz, and plenty, plenty more.

Here are links to some of the books Erikson mentions during discussions:

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/142458.Flashman

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/57950.Swords_and_Deviltry

https://www.goodreads.com/series/42897-brak-the-barbarian

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2362058.Mention_My_Name_in_Atlantis

Link to the YouTube video where Erikson discusses that Laseen poem with AP Canavan on his A Critical Dragon channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i9ghCxZXa20

Wanna say 'Hi!' or give us feedback or have any questions for us, why not reach out? We are on Twitter - https://twitter.com/podcast_smiley, https://twitter.com/mora_books and on Reddit- Lee (u/Loleeeee), Mora (u/kashmora). You can also email us at smileyspodcast@gmail.com

[Spoilers All, except OST, BaB and ASL] The idea was to discuss the Novels of the Malazan Empire & Esslemont's writing. The idea went haywire as it is often wont to do on this podcast & we ended up touching on quite a few subjects. Philosophy, writing styles, RPG hijinks, Nif's experience with E&E, and the "Saviour of the Realm," among many other things. Stick around; it'll be worth your while. Check out Niflrog's YouTube channel and his excellent video essay on Existentialism in Stonewielder: https://youtu.be/Z-1khnM5Tu4. Wanna say 'Hi!' or give us feedback or have any questions for us, why not reach out? We are on Twitter - https://twitter.com/podcast_smiley and on Reddit- Lee (u/Loleeeee), Mora (u/kashmora), Nif (u/Niflrog). You can also email us at smileyspodcast@gmail.com

[Spoilers MBOTF and Stonewielder upto Chapter 7] Welcome to Part One of what will ideally prove to be a two-part episode on Stonewielder. We were supposed to not touch upon the Book of the Fallen at all, but a couple subtle things (mostly up to the Bonehunters, no more than that) do escape us. Mora's first read is going swimmingly, and when Lee catches up, the second part will come up. Ideally. Enjoy an hour-long episode of Lee desperately trying to avoid spoilers & trying to get Mora to ship Kiska & Jheval. Lee failed in the latter (For now), but one hopes I succeeded in the former. Wanna say 'Hi!' or give us feedback or have any questions for us, why not reach out? We are on Twitter - https://twitter.com/podcast_smiley and on Reddit- Lee (u/Loleeeee), Mora (u/kashmora). You can also email us at smileyspodcast@gmail.com

[Spoilers Toll the Hounds]

Welcome to an episode where "Bah, cry me a river!" was genuinely a part of our episode notes.

As you may imagine, we don't agree about a whole lot of things here. The discussion - as it often does - circles back to "Did X character have a choice" in the matter?

Maybe Lee is just not quite cynical enough (vastly more likely, particularly in this case). Maybe Mora is just not quite compassionate enough (highly doubt this). In any case, what are your thoughts on Challice?

Leave your thoughts below on Spotify, message us on Twitter or Reddit, send an email, write a personalized letter or come to our homes to let us know personally.

Wanna say 'Hi!' or give us feedback or have any questions for us, why not reach out? We are on Twitter - https://twitter.com/podcast_smiley and on Reddit- Lee (u/Loleeeee), Mora (u/kashmora).

Spoilers Toll the Hounds!

Redeemer? I barely know her. But hey, that's the whole point! Join us as we discuss the cult of the Redeemer and its place in the wider setting of faith in the Malazan Universe. Warning: May contain overlong quotes from the book because we can't stop admiring this masterpiece of a novel - and also because the novel states so well what we can only describe in rather lengthy tangents, so why not cut out the middleman?

Wanna say 'Hi!' or give us feedback or have any questions for us, why not reach out? We are on Twitter - https://twitter.com/podcast_smiley and on Reddit- Lee (u/Loleeeee), Mora (u/kashmora).

Join us as Mora begins an uphill task of convincing Lee why he should read this 2019 sci fi novel by Steven Erikson. And for the first time ever, we have an actual Spoiler-free discussion. Wanna say 'Hi!' or give us feedback or have any questions for us, why not reach out? We are on Twitter - https://twitter.com/podcast_smiley and on Reddit- Lee (u/Loleeeee), Mora (u/kashmora). Music from Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/swoop/mornings License code: XKABPDHCCTSGM8O7

"But Brukhalian is just so cool!"

"Yeah, but have you considered..."

"HE'S SO COOL!"

Hello & welcome to our discussion of the Grey Swords - or, more colloquially, the "Fener Boys" - and their arc through Memories of Ice. Unequivocal thirsting over Brukhalian ensues from Mora, while Lee promotes the view that maybe - just maybe - worshipping an animalistic god of war isn't the greatest idea. And that Karnadas is arguably better.

Spoilers limited to Memories of Ice; our next episode ought to revisit these gentlemen in another book in the (not very) far future.

Wanna say 'Hi!' or give us feedback or have any questions for us, why not reach out? We are on Twitter - https://twitter.com/podcast_smiley and on Reddit- Lee (u/Loleeeee), Mora (u/kashmora).

Music from Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/swoop/mornings

License code: XKABPDHCCTSGM8O7

[Spoilers RotCG and upto Reapers Gale] As we return to the Return of the Crimson Guard, we find we have a lot more to talk about in the second half of this book. Join us as we discuss characters who have their heart in the right place and one character who doesn't, what constitutes a Malazan identity and most importantly, how exactly does one say "Ullen"? Wanna say 'Hi!' or give us feedback or have any questions for us, why not reach out? We are on Twitter - https://twitter.com/podcast_smiley and on Reddit- Lee (u/Loleeeee), Mora (u/kashmora). Music from Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/swoop/mornings License code: XKABPDHCCTSGM8O7

Spoilers GotM.

Come in and join us as we tackle the woman Lorn, that became the thing that is the Adjunct. Reviewing her journey, how she ended up becoming the Adjunct, and discussing self-consciousness and agency - all the while trying not to plagiarize too much from all the other excellent individuals that have tackled Lorn. We leave below just a few that we used in this episode:

Philip's video on Lorn & morality: https://youtu.be/Ch_hTeS_XIA

AP's video on character agency in Gardens: https://youtu.be/NUceeBl048o

Jaggar's excellent essays on Lorn: https://unabridgedburners.com/2021/02/23/futility-for-lorn-and-sorry-an-examination-of-two-unfortunate-characters-journeys/

and Paran's journeys: https://unabridgedburners.com/2021/02/23/paran-and-playing-soldier-while-the-mouse-quarter-burns/

Wanna say Hi to us, give us some feedback or have some questions about the stuff we discuss, why not reach out to us? We are on Twitter - https://twitter.com/podcast_smiley and on Reddit- Lee (u/Loleeeee), Mora (u/kashmora).

Music from Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/swoop/mornings License code: XKABPDHCCTSGM8O7

Come join us as we discuss the House of Themes, I mean, the Theme of Chains, no, I mean, the Themes of House of Chains. Which turns out to be, surprise, surprise, more Chains- both literal and figurative ones If you have any feedback for us, you can find us on Twitter - https://twitter.com/podcast_smiley and on Reddit- Lee (u/Loleeeee), Mora (u/kashmora). Music from Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/swoop/mornings License code: XKABPDHCCTSGM8O7

When you pit Lee & Mora up against a book as massive & dense as Return of the Crimson Guard, you're bound to get some crazy shit. This episode is - of course - not an exception to that rule, and this is just the half-way point! I tried, I really tried, to steer the conversation away from Laseen. Alas, it's not quite possible, given this book. So this episode includes a 15 minute rant on Laseen's predicament (beginning at 01 hour:05 minute mark) & all the (bad) decisions that brought us to this book. And we are not yet done. For all interested, we'll leave a link to Lee's Laseen essay here as well. Lee's Essay (desperately needs a revision, honestly)- https://www.reddit.com/r/Malazan/comments/svjyl2/in_defense_of_empress_laseen_defending_the/ If you have any feedback for us, you can find us on Twitter - https://twitter.com/podcast_smiley and Reddit- Lee (u/Loleeeee), Mora (u/kashmora). Music from Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/swoop/mornings License code: XKABPDHCCTSGM8O7

Mora and the Laseen Simp discuss No Life Forsaken, the state of the Late Empire, and how horrendous magenta dye looks in contrast to blue skin.

Steven Erikson's facebook page with link to this excerpt. - https://www.facebook.com/steveneriksonofficial/posts/pfbid0ey6ekzbwE4L3U6baTaerFfZKC9MkibNWw8cjWKSjhHHiUeAAdCxQuMK1P3sTrTKql

If you have any feedback for us, you can find us on Twitter - https://twitter.com/podcast_smiley and Reddit- Lee (u/Loleeeee), Mora (u/kashmora).

Music from Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/swoop/mornings License code: XKABPDHCCTSGM8O7

Spoilers upto House of Chains. Trigger warnings- Discussion involves rape and extreme violence among fictional characters. Lee & "I-heart-Karsa" Mora discuss Karsa Orlong, from his days strutting in front of Dayliss to him riding west, into the sunset. There's more digressions than either of us care to admit, and probably quite a bit of laughter about the exploits of a certain scion of the House of Nom. Too many words! Erikson's essay - The Problem of Karsa Orlong - https://steven-erikson.org/the-problem-of-karsa-orlong/ If you have any feedback for us, you can find us on Twitter - https://twitter.com/podcast_smiley and Reddit - Lee (u/Loleeeee), Mora (u/kashmora). Music from Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/swoop/mornings License code: XKABPDHCCTSGM8O7

It's finally time for the Laseen Apologist to shine! We cover the first book of the Novels of the Malazan Empire, Night of Knives, and talk about how little screentime the actual Night of Knives gets. Temper, Kiska, Riders, Dassem, oh my!

The discussion includes spoilers from Night of Knives and also the first 6 books of the Malazan Book of the Fallen series (Gardens of the Moon through The Bonehunters) written by Steven Erikson.

A brief summary of the book- https://drive.google.com/file/d/1fnUgAlcMoCf4KRxlgILL8_YD95Wq7iX8/view?usp=sharing

If you have any feedback for us, you can find us on Twitter - https://twitter.com/podcast_smiley and Reddit- Lee (u/Loleeeee), Mora(u/kashmora).

Music from Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/swoop/mornings License code: XKABPDHCCTSGM8O7