As a new novel in "The Witcher" series approaches its release, original author Andrzej Sapkowski recently spoke publicly at the Opole Book Festival in Poland. He not only discussed his own creative plans but also, in a rare move, defended "A Song of Ice and Fire" author George R.R. Martin amid the long-standing controversy surrounding the unfinished "The Winds of Winter."
Early in the event, Sapkowski proactively addressed audience questions about his future writing, stating, "I will write new books, don't worry, there's nothing to be concerned about. Unlike George R.R. Martin, if I say I'm going to write, then I will definitely write." While his remark was made in jest, he quickly shifted tone, expressing profound understanding for Martin's predicament.
Sapkowski noted that he could fully comprehend why Martin has struggled to complete the manuscript, adding that if his own work were to be outpaced by a TV series, he too would question the purpose of continuing to write.
"If someone did that to me today, adapting my novel into a series, and the plot then surpassed what I originally intended to write, I would also start to wonder: Do I still need to continue writing? It's already been told, hasn't it? Adapting the original work is fine, that's the author's right, but if they just make things up based on their own imagination before the original work is even written, that's truly a bit unfair."
These remarks are seen as strong support for Martin, especially given that the "Game of Thrones" television series surpassed the original novels after its sixth season, leading to widespread dissatisfaction among book fans. Martin himself has also publicly acknowledged the pressure and struggles involved in completing "The Winds of Winter."
On another note, Sapkowski also announced that his new book, "Crossroads of Ravens," will be released in the United States on September 30, 2025. This work is set before the main "The Witcher" storyline, depicting a young Geralt before he became the legendary monster hunter, marking a crucial chapter in his journey of self-discovery and destiny in a brutal world.