George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series, the foundation for the wildly popular Game of Thrones television show, remains unfinished. While the show concluded (controversially, for many), the books continue to tantalize readers with their unresolved plotlines and complex characters. This leaves the question of how the books end a complex one, requiring a nuanced approach.
The Simple Answer: They Don't (Yet)
The brutally honest truth is that the Game of Thrones books do not have a definitive ending. Only five books have been published: A Game of Thrones, A Clash of Kings, A Storm of Swords, A Feast for Crows, and A Dance with Dragons. Martin has publicly stated that he is working on the sixth book, The Winds of Winter, and a seventh, A Dream of Spring, is planned. However, no release dates are confirmed, and the wait has been exceptionally long.
Therefore, any discussion of how the books end is speculative, based on existing chapters, released excerpts, and Martin's own hints and comments. It's crucial to approach any summary with this understanding: it's based on incomplete information and the author's intentions, not the actual published conclusion.
What We Know (and Don't Know) From the Existing Books
The existing books paint a picture of a world teetering on the brink of collapse. Several major plotlines are underway:
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Daenerys Targaryen's Conquest: Daenerys' arc has been one of building power and conquering Slaver's Bay, but with significant moral complexities. Her journey and its ultimate outcome in the books remain uncertain. The show significantly diverged from the books in her characterization and fate.
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The War of the Five Kings (and Beyond): The struggle for the Iron Throne has expanded beyond just five claimants and involved many more factions and players. The political landscape remains fiercely contested, and the allegiances are constantly shifting.
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The Mystery of Jon Snow: Jon Snow's resurrection and his ambiguous position in the Night's Watch are central mysteries, leaving much space for speculation about his future role and destiny.
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The White Walkers and the Others: The threat from the North remains a looming danger, and the books have devoted significant attention to this mystical, ice-wielding enemy, whose motives and ultimate goals are still unclear.
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Bran Stark's Journey: Bran's story arc, involving his powers and connection to the past, hints at crucial elements in the overall conflict's resolution, but its meaning remains a significant open question.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the major plot points that remain unresolved?
The major unresolved plot points are numerous, including: the full extent of the White Walker threat, the ultimate fate of Daenerys Targaryen, the identity of Jon Snow's parents (fully clarified in the show, but not yet in the books), and the overarching struggle for power in Westeros. Many secondary plots and character arcs remain open as well.
How different is the ending of the books likely to be from the show?
Based on the divergence seen in the later seasons of the show, it is highly likely that the book endings will differ substantially. Martin has expressed dissatisfaction with certain aspects of the show's adaptation, suggesting major deviations in character arcs and plot resolutions.
Will all the loose ends be tied up in the final books?
It is highly anticipated that Martin will resolve many—if not all—of the present loose ends. His meticulous world-building and character development suggest that he is intending a comprehensive and satisfying (if potentially bittersweet) conclusion. However, the nature of that conclusion remains entirely unknown.
When will the next book be released?
There is no official release date for The Winds of Winter. While Martin continues to work on it, no confirmed publication date has been announced.
Are there any clues about the ending in Martin's other writings or statements?
Martin has released some hints and comments over the years, but these are often ambiguous and open to interpretation. There are no concrete spoilers from the author's side that offer a clear glimpse of the ending.
In conclusion, while the show offered a resolution, the books' ending remains a mystery. Only time (and George R.R. Martin's writing) will tell how the saga of ice and fire ultimately concludes.
