Welcome to A Song of Dan and Josh, the show where myself and FanSided’s own Josh Hill walk through each and every chapter of George R.R. Martin’s unfinished magnum opus and break down what makes them tick. We’re back after a long, season 8-inspired absence and it feels good.
Today, we’re tackling Arya IV from A Clash of Kings. After a slow Jon chapter last week, this one is bracing. Let’s dive in!
As always, I love the contrast in Arya chapters between childlike innocence and grim wartime drama. And the action was terrific; lots of great imagery in this one, from the hand crawling over the holdfast wall to the town full of torches that look like lantern bugs. Martin really shows off his gifts for description here.
That said, did anyone else have a problem getting their heads around how the battle in the holdfast was laid out? I remember having trouble the first time I read it, although I had a better idea here. This is Josh’s first time with the chapter, and the problem reared its head again. Let us know what you think!
The Take the Black Podcast is on iTunes and Google Play! Please subscribe and download from there if you can. Also, you can help us out by giving us a five-star rating and leaving a friendly comment! We’re also now on Spreaker, so try us there, as well.
Next up is Tyrion III from Clash! You can watch us live every Wednesday at 4:00 p.m. CST on our Facebook page!
To stay up to date on everything fantasy, science fiction, and WiC, follow our all-encompassing Facebook page and sign up for our exclusive newsletter.
Watch Game of Thrones for FREE with a no-risk, 7-day free trial of Amazon Channels
