While many pay tribute to Lord of the Rings, my heart
ached far more for the exploits of Elric and his black
blade. While some loved the epic tales of adventure that
stretched across the realms of a mundane landscape,
I loved the mystery and wonder, the grime, and the
filth of the city spun out by Leiber with the beloved
Lankhmar far more. I enjoyed the political intrigues of
Mervyn Peake’s Gormenghast and was overwhelmed by
China Mieville’s Perdido Street Station, which brought
back a sense of amazement for me and redefined modern
fantasy. While I’m giving nods to influences, I cannot
leave out Neil Gaiman who unknowingly taught me to
challenge myself, to draw upon the myths of the past,
pay homage to what has gone before, and try to add a bit
for the future.