Conan
"Conan" is a collaborative collection that brings together the original work of Robert E. Howard, the creator of Conan the Barbarian, with additional stories and editorial contributions from L. Sprague de Camp and Lin Carter. This book serves to both preserve Howard's legendary tales and expand the mythos of Conan with new adventures crafted by de Camp and Carter.
The inclusion of Howard’s original stories ensures that the core of the collection is grounded in the powerful and evocative storytelling that defined Conan’s character and world.
De Camp and Carter’s contributions provide a broader narrative scope, exploring different facets of Conan’s life and adventures. This expansion helps to flesh out the character and his world in ways that Howard did not have the opportunity to do.
De Camp and Carter’s efforts to maintain consistency with Howard’s world-building are generally successful. Their additions respect the established lore and atmosphere of the Conan universe.
The difference in writing styles between Howard and his successors can be jarring. While Howard’s prose is known for its raw energy and dark poetry, de Camp and Carter’s writing, though competent, often lacks the same intensity.
Some readers might find the character of Conan slightly altered in the stories by de Camp and Carter. Their interpretation of Conan can sometimes seem less primal and more polished compared to Howard’s original vision.
As with any continuation of a beloved series, the additional stories by de Camp and Carter are subject to mixed reactions. Some fans appreciate the expanded universe, while others feel that these stories do not live up to the originals.
Notable Stories:
- "The Hyborian Age" (by Robert E. Howard): This essay provides a detailed background of the Hyborian world, setting the stage for Conan’s adventures.
- "The Thing in the Crypt" (by L. Sprague de Camp and Lin Carter): A story about Conan’s early years, highlighting his cunning and resourcefulness in a dire situation.
- "The Tower of the Elephant" (by Robert E. Howard): One of the classic Howard tales, this story features Conan’s quest to steal a jewel from a mysterious and dangerous tower.
- "The Hall of the Dead" (by Robert E. Howard and L. Sprague de Camp): A partially completed Howard story finished by de Camp, it follows Conan’s exploration of a cursed city.
- "The God in the Bowl" (by Robert E. Howard): This tale of mystery and horror sees Conan accused of murder while dealing with a supernatural menace.
- "Rogues in the House" (by Robert E. Howard): Conan becomes embroiled in political intrigue and faces off against a cunning adversary.
- "The Hand of Nergal" (by Robert E. Howard and Lin Carter): Another fragmentary story completed by Carter, involving Conan’s encounter with an ancient evil.
- "The City of Skulls" (by L. Sprague de Camp and Lin Carter): An original tale by de Camp and Carter that sends Conan on an adventure in a perilous and exotic city.
"Conan" by Robert E. Howard, L. Sprague de Camp, and Lin Carter is a compelling collection that offers both the original brilliance of Howard’s storytelling and the expanded universe crafted by de Camp and Carter. While the differences in style and interpretation can be noticeable, the collection as a whole provides a rich and varied exploration of Conan’s world. This book is a valuable addition for fans of heroic fantasy and sword-and-sorcery adventures, showcasing both the enduring power of Howard’s creation and the dedicated efforts of de Camp and Carter to keep the legend alive.