Jay

Dune Messiah explores in great detail the lengths of fated prophecy: at least, in its prideful pursuits and strict adherence. No other piece of fiction aside from Watchmen explores this concept as crucially to the story as it does here, and Frank Herbet even introduces his audience to a heavy dose of that idiosyncratic writing that fans describe as more prevalent in later works.

The conspiracy plot of Dune Messiah does provide some incredibly damning sequences: the orgasmic training room scene, a darkly comedic writing of Hayt/Duncan Idaho's presence, and the amazing stone-burner sequence. It leaves a lot of spectacle to the mind, whilst providing an interesting and curious foundation for the next books going forward.

But at least, we know this closes the first arc of the Atriedes saga.

"He strides through the long cavern of time, scattering the fool-self of his dream."

Dense, and rich. I admire its philosophical underpinnings that are justly tied in a lot of character choices as much as the worldbuilding. Ah-h-h-h-h really excellent piece of literary work.

Not sure why this is celebrated ravishly. Didn’t find it too sweet nor endearing, and I think its “philosophical underpinnings” feel as flat as such thoughts could be.

Half the book runs amuck, kind of stale and repetitive. Only kicks a little more into high gear towards the end, and a clarity welcome but pretty insufferable writing from Cormac McCarthy.