#azhrarn

[retroscifiart]

Art by David Schleinkofer for Death's Master (Tales of the Flat Earth) by Tanith Lee (1979)

[sillovain]

Prince in the Underearth

[windsweptinred]

Granted I've only read the first Flat Earth novel so far. But all these posts stating Dream of the Endless is a straight rip off of Azhrarn, Lord of Night… I mean, did we read the same book? Yes, granted there are some passing similarities. But in the same way you could point to any byronic anti hero/ anti villain and note similarities. If I was going to point to any character from the Sandman Universe that reads Azhrarn to me, it would be Desire or Lucifer. And I think that's more Azhrarn being drawn from a Luciferian archetype, rather than any direct character theft.

It's the stark differences between Dream and Azhrarn that really stands out for me. In their attitudes towards humanity, what drives them, how they view their role in their respective cosmos etc. These are two fascinating, complex characters who couldn't be more different in many aspects.

I'll see how I go with the next books. I may see more patterns emerging. But at the moment the resemblance is incredibly superficial at best.

Personally, I've adored exploring this new world. Lee's writing is so sumptuous. There's no other word for it. I'd love to see Azhrarn explored as a character in his own right, the rich lore of Flat Earth discussed separate from any connection to The Sandman. I think both the work and Lee deserve that.

[howifeltabouthim]

He bent down on one knee in front of her. 'Then what is your pleasure? If it's in my power to grant it, it's yours. Tell me your heart's desire and I will make it real.' She drew away from him as if his proximity might burn. 'Don't make such offers. You sound too much like a demon with such pretty words.'

Jenn Lyons, from The Ruin of Kings

[booksbrackenbooze]

Azhrarn, Prince of Demons, is living in my head rent free

[nyxshadowhawk]

Algol by Develv

[dandeliondee]

does a flip, more, with @fluffernauto's azhrarn getting condemned

[bellaroles]

Reading about a selfish demon prince and the various ways he made life hell for other people calm my soul lol.