Steven Erikson Talks Building Malazan, FaceBook Post, & MORE!

My interview with Steven Erikson the author of the Malazan series!

0:00 Intro
00:45 FaceBook Post
09:30 Abercrombie Comment
10:46 Developing Malazan
13:30 Malazan’s lack of notes
14:47 Cocreating Malazan
20:05 Malazan’s Magic
25:17 Joy in writing
26:56 Erikson’s Prose
29:43 Post Interview chat

[DanielGreeneReviews]

Thank you Erikson for coming on!
Who would you like to see interviewed next??
My goal when COVID is over is to do these in person. So, can we end this pandemic already?

[yairsofer]

WHAT!!?? YOU GOT ERIKSON!!?? In a few years I wouldn't be surprised if I saw a video titled " The Author of Beowulf talks inventing the Fantasy Genre and being resurrected"

[anthemptedits]

Wow, I've never heard Erikson talk before. Sounds like such a genuine, good guy. Never read a Malazan book but this has been one of my favorite interviews on the channel

[rasaecnai]

Other writers: Writing process is mysterious.
Erikson: Nah bruh, Imma write you an essay on how to do characterization. You gotta talk about the process.
Sanderson: Aiyt. Here is a whole series of college courses on my process of writing books.

[bretter]

I love and hate this dude.. Seriously, whoever let this dude with such an insight on cultures and social construction pick up a pen needs a kick in the shins. He breaks my heart, nakes me laugh, makes me an optimist and pessimist at the same time, and I have so much respect for him. Thanks Steven for your time here, and thanks to Daniel for a solid and well done interview!

[richardgm]

OK. I'm just gonna say it... I prefer Malazan to Wheel of Time. I feel a weight lifted from my mind.

[GalacticReads]

You can tell how much Erikson cares about the craft of writing. I appreciate how he makes an effort to constantly improve his craft and make the best possible book he can. It seems strange to say, but not enough authors are like this. It's refreshing how informed and dedicated he is. Malazan has been on my tbr for a while now - I think it's time I finally read it!

[DerelictProjects]

Thaniel out here collecting the infinity authors

[astraestus]

I haven't read Malazan but I loved every minute of this interview. Erikson sounds like a smart guy and I'm definitely gonna read his books.

Edit 2 months later: I have started Malazan and am really liking it although it's confusing as hell

[jacobjasonbago]

He mentioned he can write in any style, he's not really bragging, he's stating a fact. That why I love the man. Thanks for blessing YT for this interview.

[shawngillogly]

There is nothing as enjoyable as reading Steven Erickson. Except perhaps listening to him think. Brilliant, honest, and engaging without insulting those who disagree.

And yes, the top 100 is the biggest list fail perpetrated on the speculative fiction audience in my lifetime.

[anniecrego]

Erikson's writing is phenomenal. When one of his characters is injured you literally feel it. It's unlike any other author and I find it both gritty and refreshing. Thank you for the interview Mr. Greene.

[Swiergotka]

OMG! Literally the very first sentences by Erikson said it all. The level and complexity of his prose (he's an academic, teaching classes in creative writing), that he's into short stories (aren't Malazan novels like compilations of short stories?) etc. I'm really happy for this interview. Malazan makes so much more sence now!!!

[JacksImagination]

I finished Oathbringer yesterday and couldn't wait for more Rhythym of War, so I literally got the first Malazan book AN HOUR AGO and you're here talking to the author. The universe works in mysterious ways.

[dylanfarrow]

This interview has single-handedly convinced me to get Gardens of the Moon. It'll be scary but this video proved to me it'll be worth it. Time to read Erikson's essay on characterisation, I'm sure it'll be a blast.

[Alihassan]

As a writer, Erikson makes me think of characters. Sanderson makes me think of the world. And Rothfuss makes me think of finishing it.

[RafchildRecords]

The post interview was amazing. Also Erikson is probably the most clear-spoken proof right now that personal convictions, worldview and yes, even political opinions inform the writing. I love how clear he is in reflecting on his process and how well he can present that both in his essays and interviews.

[bczpd]

Imagine a Fantasy Author Round Table with Daniel as the moderator

[childofatom]

Gotta love Erikson. He's a master of the craft, he makes me realize how much I love reading every time I pick up one of his books.
And thanks Daniel for what you do

[danielvanrooyen]

Have not read Erikson, but man I loved this interview.