Page Burners: Deadhouse Gates by Steven Erikson Artwork

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Page Burners: Deadhouse Gates by Steven Erikson

April 28, 2025 • Steve

In this episode, the hosts delve into the intricate themes of the Malazan series, particularly focusing on 'Dead house Gates.' They discuss the significance of Coltain's death, the concept of ascendancy tied to belief, and the moral dilemmas faced by Malazan soldiers. The conversation also touches on betrayal, the nature of power, and the mysterious laughing God, culminating in Felisin's choice to retreat, highlighting her fear of confrontation. In this conversation, the participants delve into the intricate themes of identity, control, and the nature of possession as explored through the characters Felisin and Apsalar. They discuss the parallel journeys of these characters, the impact of memory on identity, and the tragic elements of Icarium's story. The conversation also touches on the complexities of relationships, the interplay of fate and free will, and the significance of Kalam's confrontation with power dynamics. The discussion culminates in the exploration of the rebirth of a god and the cyclical nature of souls within the narrative.

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to the Malazan Series

05:17
Coltain's Death and Ascendancy

12:47
The Role of Belief in Ascendancy

16:01
The Consequences of Leadership Decisions

22:29
Moral Dilemmas in Warfare

30:12
Character Complexity and Historical Narratives

35:53
Engaging with the Audience

38:14
Character Analysis: Malik Rao

45:11
The Fate of Duiker

56:24
Divine Influences and Character Motivations

58:01
Exploring Control and Identity in Characters