The Road to A Memory of Light: New Spring

For fans of The Wheel of Time, the prequel NEW SPRING provides the best opportunity to get a peek into not only the “normal” lives of the residents of the White Tower, but some of their secrets as well. Split between Lan’s experiences following the conclusion of the Aiel War, and Moiraine & Siuan’s completion of their training as Accepted and the beginning of their work as full sisters, this novel shows some of the formative experiences that create the imposing forces we meet in THE EYE OF THE WORLD.

I love this book not only because it focuses on my favorite characters, but also because it shows a fascinating time in the Wheel of Time world (plus there’s no prologue). The Battle of the Shining Walls is completing the Aiel War right outside the Tower’s doors, King Laman of Cairhien is killed leaving an uncertain succession for the Sun Throne, and the White Tower is struck by the sudden deaths of both Gitara and Tamra. This backdrop gives us a chance to witness old traditions, like the wearing of white ribbons in mourning, and new discoveries, like the realization of the existence of the Black Ajah.

Watching through the eyes of Moiraine and Siuan we have the unique opportunity to tour the White Tower and visit areas never seen before or since. One such passage follows Moiraine on a trip to the Green Ajah quarters to deliver a note from Tamra to Kerene. Along the way we have the chance to preview some of the characters we’ll grow to learn more about, such as Elyas Gaidin, while glimpsing the tightly-held secrets that every Ajah would have. Moiraine describes the “itch” to learn the hidden codes and symbols she sees on her trip, such as the lacquered swords on each sister’s door. That “itch” seems like a common trait held by most Blues, and is part of what drives and unites us.

Some of my favorite scenes in the book follow Moiraine and Siuan as they travel outside of the White Tower walls. When traveling through the streets of Tar Valon we are permitted a brief but rich description of the Ogier-built city. Through their eyes we see sites such as the large inn in the shape of its name, “The Blue Cat,” and the fish market built to resemble a school of multicolored fish. We also learn more about the realities of daily life, such as the importance of a talented seamstress or trustworthy banker. Those insights, along with the priceless interactions between the fisherman’s daughter and the high ranking noblewoman combine to produce my favorite volume in the series.