I am always in awe of fantasy writers, because they can create a masterpiece limited only by their imaginations. And in Philip Pullman's imagination, we are introduced to the many worlds and their many people, both described in rich detail. He dishes out a science fantasy confection that has engaging characters, despicable villains, and a concept so mind-boggling that I totally understand why some people would categorize it as controversial.
At the center of everything are Lyra and Will, who are unknowing of their role in the bigger picture. Their adventures (and misadventures) are at the core of the trilogy, and every chapter showcases their burgeoning maturity. The two, who start out as strangers, become fiercely loyal and protective of each other as their story progress. Lyra is radiant, a figure so full of life, and mischievous to a fault. Will, serious and dark because of his experiences, is charming as he becomes infected by Lyra's exuberant nature, a quality that makes everyone fall in love with her.
For most of the trilogy, many of the supporting characters are connected to Lyra. And while most of the them come from Lyra's world, this particular group showcase many varied cultural influences and personalities. Among my favorites are Iorek Byrnison, human-like but still a bear to the core, and Serafina Pekkala, a mysterious witch but very human when it comes to love. Yet, none of the characters can compare to the complicated nature and relationship of Lord Asriel and Mrs. Coulter, both of whom invoke "Are they for real?" and "Are they good or bad?" moments for me.
One major challenge that I encounter when recommending the trilogy, are people's preconceived notions about the books. Pullman's take on religion is controversial, with the Magisterium and the Authority reflecting Christianity and what people believe as God. And Pullman has never been shy to admit that the comparison is intentional, and is important as certain biblical references or mythos relate directly to the evolution of the characters of Lyra and Will, which can be considered even more controversial. All of these concerns can definitely intimidate or put off those who have yet to read the books, and can cause some of those who actually read them to express negative comments. These are the same concerns that caused filmmakers to create a less than stellar adaptation of The Golden Compass.
While difficult to defend, I always stand by my conclusion that His Dark Materials is one of the best fantasy fiction works of our time. There will always be questions on whether the trilogy is appropriate for its intended age group, especially since young adults can be impressionable, and on whether it was created just for the sake of ruffling conservative religious feathers. But none can doubt that it is a well-written piece of fiction. And specifically, a well-written piece of writing in the steampunk sub-genre. And I believe that this is what people should remember. That while the characters and situation are relateable, and its environment familiar to our contemporary world, it is just an interpretation of an alternate world where religion rules and what people believe to be God was just the first being to take charge of the universe. And beyond the controversies and its impact on your personal beliefs, His Dark Materials dishes out the story of compelling characters, which deserve to be told and shared.
If you are afraid to read His Dark Materials because you feel that it offends your religious beliefs, please it give it a try. Because it IS just a work of fiction.
And a good one at that.
Happy reading!!
*book cover images from here.