In 1976, David Gemmell was undergoing testing for
cancer, and in an effort to take his mind from the process, began putting on
paper some of his ideas for a fantasy story crawling around in his head. A friend later suggested he develop the idea
in to a full novel, and Legend was
born. Depicting sacrifice and heroism in
the face of overwhelming adversity like perhaps no epic fantasy author before, the
novel introduced The Legend—Druss the Deathwalker—and his mighty battleaxe,
Snaga. The plot devices may be Dungeons
& Dragons derivative and the characterization immature, but the novel’s
cult following indicates there may be something more to the story, 10 sequels,
prequels, etc. published since.
Faceless hordes of enemies, albino sorcerer
telepaths, a castle siege in a mountain pass, a fearless female warrior with
fur boots, bow, and breastplate, a young man searching for his destiny, and
enough knights, bloodshed, and battle scenes to compete with any fantasy novel,
such are the clichés redolent throughout Legend. What makes the story readable, however, is
the descriptive setting and the sense of suspense Gemmell builds as each unpredictable
event in the storyline unfolds.
