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Mort
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Mort by Terry Pratchett - TT8 June BOM (starts 22 June)
Redshirt wrote: "It's Mort being his own person. I think it's funny because, you know, Mort also means death in French."Which is precisely why Pratchett gave him that name ;)
DQs Day 1: 1. Mort is nothing if not determined. He refuses to give up on being a “prentice” until the last stoke of midnight. Then at the very last second, Death arrives for him. Do you think Mort was quick to take the apprenticeship perhaps from feeling humiliated at the days events or was it something that truly intrigued him? Would you have been willing to work for Death? I think he was a little ashamed, mostly because his father put such stock in apprenticing him out, and he did want to make his father happy. That said, I think that he was rather intrigued by it all! Most people only meet DEATH once, and Mort gets to work for him! I wouldn't be a good fit working for DEATH since I get upset very easily. Crying into DEATH's robes would be gauche, no?
2. Death has a sarcastic tone during this first section. What do you think of his fawning over Mort to ensure he gets new clothes and food and Death eating with him like a regular guy? Is he up to something sinister or does he just want to make Mort comfortable? Death tries his best to act like a regular person, because he knows that he is not actually a real person, at least not real in the sense that humans are. It's an act to make both of them more comfortable, because DEATH is just as anxious as Mort is. DEATH is a freaking cinnamon bun, and if he acts sinister it's because he is angry or feels he has to put on act for his Role.
3. Mort may be a bit gangly and lost in his own head at times, but he seems to have a lot of compassion. Upon realizing that he was talking to Death, he asked him to spare his Dad. Later he tries to intervene and warn the King that he was about to be killed and finally on that same trip he wanted to tell the King’s daughter not to trust the Duke. What did you think of all that? Are these normal reactions to someone who is the apprentice to Death? Do you think it will continue as Mort sees more and more of Death’s duty? Mort has a good heart and wants Justice for those who are wronged, like the King and the Princess. It's unfortunate that this isn't behavior befitting DEATH's apprentice, as the role is one that cannot intervene, but acts as a shepherd after the inevitable. I think it will continue while DEATH has his little existential crisis and doesn't notice what Mort is doing.
4. What is up with the constant utterance of “Mort” every time someone calls our MC anything other than Mort or Mortimer after arriving at Death’s House and meeting Yasbell? Is there some significance to this or is it just rather annoying?! Lol! It's his way of pointing out that he has a name and is a person. I find it fitting for the stubbornness we've seen from Mort so far, and I am annoyed on Mort's behalf!
5. Mort, surprisingly, asked Death for an afternoon off. I think our dear Mort is growing up! He explains to Death that he wants to meet people for more than a few minutes. When he arrives in his own time and finds out where he is, he asks if he is near Sto Lat. He seems to have a plan when he says he wants a very fast horse. What do you think he intends? Will it work out like he plans? Mort has a plan, but I don't think it will work out like he expects it to.
Sammy wrote: "Which is precisely why Pratchett gave him that name ;)"Yesssssss. :3
DQs Day 1: (end: "'I want' he said firmly 'a very fast horse.'"19% / Page 52)1. Mort is nothing if not determined. He refuses to give up on being a “prentice” until the last stoke of midnight. Then at the very last second, Death arrives for him. Do you think Mort was quick to take the apprenticeship perhaps from feeling humiliated at the days events or was it something that truly intrigued him? Would you have been willing to work for Death?
I agree with what has been mentioned in the previous answers. It was a combination of the offer of apprenticeship being a last chance and him being intrigued by the job. I wouldn't be able to pass that kind of opportunity, I'm way to curious so yes, I would.
2. Death has a sarcastic tone during this first section. What do you think of his fawning over Mort to ensure he gets new clothes and food and Death eating with him like a regular guy? Is he up to something sinister or does he just want to make Mort comfortable?
Death is basically a good "person" and wants people to feel comfortable around him. Additionally he likes cats so in my book that makes him pretty awesome lol
3. Mort may be a bit gangly and lost in his own head at times, but he seems to have a lot of compassion. Upon realizing that he was talking to Death, he asked him to spare his Dad. Later he tries to intervene and warn the King that he was about to be killed and finally on that same trip he wanted to tell the King’s daughter not to trust the Duke. What did you think of all that? Are these normal reactions to someone who is the apprentice to Death? Do you think it will continue as Mort sees more and more of Death’s duty?
That's completely understandable from Mort, as someone who feels empathy and wants justice. However in the long term, as Death pointed out, dying is an inevitable fact of life and Mort will have to see it as such. Death teaches him that things like "justice" and "fairness" are not taken into account.
4. What is up with the constant utterance of “Mort” every time someone calls our MC anything other than Mort or Mortimer after arriving at Death’s House and meeting Yasbell? Is there some significance to this or is it just rather annoying?! Lol!
I didn't think anything about it really. However like Redshirt mentions, "Mort" means death in French. Because of this before starting the book I thought the title referred to the character DEATH (Mort being another nickname for him). While reading it I was thinking Mort might eventually take DEATH's place or act as a 2nd grim reaper.
5. Mort, surprisingly, asked Death for an afternoon off. I think our dear Mort is growing up! He explains to Death that he wants to meet people for more than a few minutes. When he arrives in his own time and finds out where he is, he asks if he is near Sto Lat. He seems to have a plan when he says he wants a very fast horse. What do you think he intends? Will it work out like he plans?
Won't answer because I want to avoid spoilers :)
DQs Day 1: (end: "'I want' he said firmly 'a very fast horse.'"19% / Page 52)1. Mort is nothing if not determined. He refuses to give up on being a “prentice” until the last stoke of midnight. Then at the very last second, Death arrives for him. Do you think Mort was quick to take the apprenticeship perhaps from feeling humiliated at the days events or was it something that truly intrigued him? Would you have been willing to work for Death?
I think it may have been a combination of both for Mort. I am not sure if I would have ended up working for Death as it’s such a grim job.
2. Death has a sarcastic tone during this first section. What do you think of his fawning over Mort to ensure he gets new clothes and food and Death eating with him like a regular guy? Is he up to something sinister or does he just want to make Mort comfortable?
Why not get fancy food and clothes while you are surrounded by unpleasantness all day long? 😊 I think Death wants to make him comfortable but I also think Death is setting him up for something else. Oh and does he really feel that his daughter is great company? SMH on that one.
3. Mort may be a bit gangly and lost in his own head at times, but he seems to have a lot of compassion. Upon realizing that he was talking to Death, he asked him to spare his Dad. Later he tries to intervene and warn the King that he was about to be killed and finally on that same trip he wanted to tell the King’s daughter not to trust the Duke. What did you think of all that? Are these normal reactions to someone who is the apprentice to Death? Do you think it will continue as Mort sees more and more of Death’s duty?
I think these are all very normal reactions upon first experiencing “Death”. I think Mort will end up becoming accustomed to the process in the future. I am curious to know if the King’s daughter makes a reappearance based on the interaction she had with Mort.
4. What is up with the constant utterance of “Mort” every time someone calls our MC anything other than Mort or Mortimer after arriving at Death’s House and meeting Yasbell? Is there some significance to this or is it just rather annoying?! Lol!
I think Mort must have had some pretty bad nicknames in the past based off his annoyance. The King also referred to him as “boy” so that had to be pretty annoying in itself.
5. Mort, surprisingly, asked Death for an afternoon off. I think our dear Mort is growing up! He explains to Death that he wants to meet people for more than a few minutes. When he arrives in his own time and finds out where he is, he asks if he is near Sto Lat. He seems to have a plan when he says he wants a very fast horse. What do you think he intends? Will it work out like he plans?
Outside of going back to see the King’s daughter I have no idea what he has planned. TBD in the upcoming chapters. 😊
DQs Day 1: (end: "'I want' he said firmly 'a very fast horse.'"19% / Page 52)1. Mort is nothing if not determined. He refuses to give up on being a “prentice” until the last stoke of midnight. Then at the very last second, Death arrives for him. Do you think Mort was quick to take the apprenticeship perhaps from feeling humiliated at the days events or was it something that truly intrigued him? Would you have been willing to work for Death?
I too think he wanted to please his father and didn't want to not be picked for an apprentice position. Mort mentioned the humiliation of the day; to me that was because of not being chosen and not wanting to be a failure in his father's eyes. I do think he couldn't help but be intrigued with Death and the opportunity. As for me, I'm not sure whether I would have accepted....there was a time in my life that I would have without another thought. Circumstances often dictate actions.
2. Death has a sarcastic tone during this first section. What do you think of his fawning over Mort to ensure he gets new clothes and food and Death eating with him like a regular guy? Is he up to something sinister or does he just want to make Mort comfortable?
I quite like Death. I like snarky! He is trying to make Mort comfy and possibly to make himself feel more human for a bit. There is a plan for Mort....just not sure what.
3. Mort may be a bit gangly and lost in his own head at times, but he seems to have a lot of compassion. Upon realizing that he was talking to Death, he asked him to spare his Dad. Later he tries to intervene and warn the King that he was about to be killed and finally on that same trip he wanted to tell the King’s daughter not to trust the Duke. What did you think of all that? Are these normal reactions to someone who is the apprentice to Death? Do you think it will continue as Mort sees more and more of Death’s duty?
It's a normal reaction to someone being wronged. Mort will have to come to the understanding that his job is not to intervene but to help process things afterwards. I believe he will become more accustomed to it as time goes but not that he will become less compassionate.
4. What is up with the constant utterance of “Mort” every time someone calls our MC anything other than Mort or Mortimer after arriving at Death’s House and meeting Yasbell? Is there some significance to this or is it just rather annoying?! Lol!
Also think it is his way of asserting his identity and worth. I'm sure it's annoying to Mort and sadly, it's a little annoying to read as well!
5. Mort, surprisingly, asked Death for an afternoon off. I think our dear Mort is growing up! He explains to Death that he wants to meet people for more than a few minutes. When he arrives in his own time and finds out where he is, he asks if he is near Sto Lat. He seems to have a plan when he says he wants a very fast horse. What do you think he intends? Will it work out like he plans?
See, I think it was a spur of the moment plan. Even though he had been thinking about the princess and that he thought she saw him. I suspect he plans to find her.....I doubt it will go as planned.
1. Mort is nothing if not determined. He refuses to give up on being a “prentice” until the last stoke of midnight. Then at the very last second, Death arrives for him. Do you think Mort was quick to take the apprenticeship perhaps from feeling humiliated at the days events or was it something that truly intrigued him? Would you have been willing to work for Death?I think Mort took the apprenticeship to avoid feeling humiliated. He might have even felt that he could not go home again, and it was this apprenticeship or nothing.
2. Death has a sarcastic tone during this first section. What do you think of his fawning over Mort to ensure he gets new clothes and food and Death eating with him like a regular guy? Is he up to something sinister or does he just want to make Mort comfortable?
I think Death wants to make Mort feel comfortable. He's socially awkward though due to lack of experience talking with people.
3. Mort may be a bit gangly and lost in his own head at times, but he seems to have a lot of compassion. Upon realizing that he was talking to Death, he asked him to spare his Dad. Later he tries to intervene and warn the King that he was about to be killed and finally on that same trip he wanted to tell the King’s daughter not to trust the Duke. What did you think of all that? Are these normal reactions to someone who is the apprentice to Death? Do you think it will continue as Mort sees more and more of Death’s duty?
Mort thinks that DEATH can choose whether or not to collect a soul. DEATH keeps telling him he does not have the ability to choose, but Mort doesn't believe him.
5. Mort, surprisingly, asked Death for an afternoon off. I think our dear Mort is growing up! He explains to Death that he wants to meet people for more than a few minutes. When he arrives in his own time and finds out where he is, he asks if he is near Sto Lat. He seems to have a plan when he says he wants a very fast horse. What do you think he intends? Will it work out like he plans?
Mort is attracted to the princess and would like to meet her properly. I think that his desire to meet the princess was the reason he asked for the day off.
DQs Day 2 - start: "Five minutes later, Mort was lost"end: "Sooner or later, everyone remembered the magic word (p98)
Q6 - Mort walked through the walls a few times but couldn't when he tried to get into the castle. Why do you think this happened?
Q7- What do you think of Ingneous Cutwell's character?
Q8 - The Abbot has been reincarnated 53 times. The concept of reincarnation is an interesting one. If you were to be born again what life would you choose?
Q9 - Death sent Mort to reap three souls. In light of how he performed do you think Mort was ready for the job?
Q10 - Mort found Ysabelle's handkerchief in the library. Why is she reading other people's life?
Q6 - Mort walked through the walls a few times but couldn't when he tried to get into the castle. Why do you think this happened?Q7- What do you think of Ingneous Cutwell's character?
I find him amusing. And there's some kinship, considering he's not exactly the most accomplished of wizards and all... ;)
Q8 - The Abbot has been reincarnated 53 times. The concept of reincarnation is an interesting one. If you were to be born again what life would you choose?
I'm totally coming back as a bear! Hibernating through winter sounds like a very good idea :)
Q9 - Death sent Mort to reap three souls. In light of how he performed do you think Mort was ready for the job?
He was never going to be "ready" before actually being thrust into that position.
Q10 - Mort found Ysabelle's handkerchief in the library. Why is she reading other people's life?
;)
DQ Day 11. Mort is nothing if not determined. He refuses to give up on being a “prentice” until the last stoke of midnight. Then at the very last second, Death arrives for him. Do you think Mort was quick to take the apprenticeship perhaps from feeling humiliated at the days events or was it something that truly intrigued him? Would you have been willing to work for Death?
I think Death’s offer being the only one that he received played an important role. But the uniqueness of the job intrigued him and he does have an interesting observation skill.
If I were in Discworld, and the ‘not having to die’ condition was the same, then sure, why not!
2. Death has a sarcastic tone during this first section. What do you think of his fawning over Mort to ensure he gets new clothes and food and Death eating with him like a regular guy? Is he up to something sinister or does he just want to make Mort comfortable?
I didn’t feel that Death was being sarcastic. It just seems like his way of speaking, and he was truly trying to make Mort comfortable (which must be difficult being who Death is).
3. Mort may be a bit gangly and lost in his own head at times, but he seems to have a lot of compassion. Upon realizing that he was talking to Death, he asked him to spare his Dad. Later he tries to intervene and warn the King that he was about to be killed and finally on that same trip he wanted to tell the King’s daughter not to trust the Duke. What did you think of all that? Are these normal reactions to someone who is the apprentice to Death? Do you think it will continue as Mort sees more and more of Death’s duty?
I think Mort is a nice and compassionate person, the way a good human being is supposed to be. Of course, being a human, he doesn’t yet take an objective view towards dying as Death does, so he has a lot of getting accustomed to do. He might get more ‘conditioned’ to seeing people die over time, but I think he will keep reacting to ‘unfair’ deaths similarly.
4. What is up with the constant utterance of “Mort” every time someone calls our MC anything other than Mort or Mortimer after arriving at Death’s House and meeting Yasbell? Is there some significance to this or is it just rather annoying?! Lol!
It’s not annoying at all. A person’s name is the first pillar of their individuality. Having people call you by a wrong name (been on the recieving end too many times) or worse no name at all is very irritating. So he is just trying to establish his identity which certainly goes beyond just being a ‘boy’.
5. Mort, surprisingly, asked Death for an afternoon off. I think our dear Mort is growing up! He explains to Death that he wants to meet people for more than a few minutes. When he arrives in his own time and finds out where he is, he asks if he is near Sto Lat. He seems to have a plan when he says he wants a very fast horse. What do you think he intends? Will it work out like he plans?
He seems to have a plan, presuambly to do with the princess. It’s unlikely to go as planned though, what with fate and death playing their parts.
DQs Day 1: (end: "'I want' he said firmly 'a very fast horse.'"19% / Page 52)1. Mort is nothing if not determined. He refuses to give up on being a “prentice” until the last stoke of midnight. Then at the very last second, Death arrives for him. Do you think Mort was quick to take the apprenticeship perhaps from feeling humiliated at the days events or was it something that truly intrigued him? Would you have been willing to work for Death?
It seems to me that Mort is a very go-with-the-flow kind of person, which is great. He seems like he wants to make his father happy but that he mainly lives in his own mind and is a daydreamer but also a heavy thinker, and introvert. I think he was fine becoming an apprentice somewhere but starting to feel a little dejected. Since he did not seem scared of Death, but he did seem mystified, I'm not surprised. And me personally? No way would I have jumped on that apprenticeship!
2. Death has a sarcastic tone during this first section. What do you think of his fawning over Mort to ensure he gets new clothes and food and Death eating with him like a regular guy? Is he up to something sinister or does he just want to make Mort comfortable?
I loved that part and Death is hilarious. I liked the clothes and food and him trying to figure out how to relate. I don't suspect anything sinister but that he is trying to make him comfortable.
3. Mort may be a bit gangly and lost in his own head at times, but he seems to have a lot of compassion. Upon realizing that he was talking to Death, he asked him to spare his Dad. Later he tries to intervene and warn the King that he was about to be killed and finally on that same trip he wanted to tell the King’s daughter not to trust the Duke. What did you think of all that? Are these normal reactions to someone who is the apprentice to Death? Do you think it will continue as Mort sees more and more of Death’s duty?
I think it's nice he is a compassionate character and most would feel the same in his place. While he dad was there briefly and was getting rid of him, I have a soft spot for the ol' guy and found him rather amusing. We probably won't see him again, though. I suspect a love interest with the King's daughter and am not as into that area of the plot.
4. What is up with the constant utterance of “Mort” every time someone calls our MC anything other than Mort or Mortimer after arriving at Death’s House and meeting Yasbell? Is there some significance to this or is it just rather annoying?! Lol!
I think it's that he's so used to being ignored and overlooked and wants to keep repeating his name as a reminder. His family didn't want to be around him much, apprentices never noticed him in the market, he is used to being seen in the background instead of as an individual, so he keeps bringing up his name as correction.
5. Mort, surprisingly, asked Death for an afternoon off. I think our dear Mort is growing up! He explains to Death that he wants to meet people for more than a few minutes. When he arrives in his own time and finds out where he is, he asks if he is near Sto Lat. He seems to have a plan when he says he wants a very fast horse. What do you think he intends? Will it work out like he plans?
I have no idea on what he plans, but thought maybe he would go and see the girl and at first when it was a request for time off, I didn't know if he'd go visit his homeland or family out of nostalgia, but apparently not. I have a feeling that, as far as his plans go, something will go upside down and odd.
Mod
1. Mort is nothing if not determined. He refuses to give up on being a “prentice” until the last stoke of midnight. Then at the very last second, Death arrives for him. Do you think Mort was quick to take the apprenticeship perhaps from feeling humiliated at the days events or was it something that truly intrigued him? Would you have been willing to work for Death?
I think it was probably a combination, and knowing that he didn't have a role at home. I would be willing to work for Death - as is pointed out in the book, death is part of life, it isn't cruel, it's necessary and I think it's a shame society has largely forgotten that reality.
2. Death has a sarcastic tone during this first section. What do you think of his fawning over Mort to ensure he gets new clothes and food and Death eating with him like a regular guy? Is he up to something sinister or does he just want to make Mort comfortable?
Poor misunderstood Death, trying to be human just isn't his thing. He's trying so hard and missing the mark every time.
3. Mort may be a bit gangly and lost in his own head at times, but he seems to have a lot of compassion. Upon realizing that he was talking to Death, he asked him to spare his Dad. Later he tries to intervene and warn the King that he was about to be killed and finally on that same trip he wanted to tell the King’s daughter not to trust the Duke. What did you think of all that? Are these normal reactions to someone who is the apprentice to Death? Do you think it will continue as Mort sees more and more of Death’s duty?
I agree he's very compassionate to other people and wants to be involved and improve the world. I feel like his perspective on the world will shift throughout the book.
4. What is up with the constant utterance of “Mort” every time someone calls our MC anything other than Mort or Mortimer after arriving at Death’s House and meeting Ysabell? Is there some significance to this or is it just rather annoying?! Lol!
I think it's important that people are called by their name, not some random placeholder like 'boy'. If I was referred to as girl continually, I'd certainly be telling them my name every time, if not ignoring them completely.
5. Mort, surprisingly, asked Death for an afternoon off. I think our dear Mort is growing up! He explains to Death that he wants to meet people for more than a few minutes. When he arrives in his own time and finds out where he is, he asks if he is near Sto Lat. He seems to have a plan when he says he wants a very fast horse. What do you think he intends? Will it work out like he plans?
He's wanting to interfere! When does anything in fiction, especially this early on in a book go according to plan? Or if it does, there are inevitably consequences.
Mod
end: "Sooner or later, everyone remembered the magic word (p98)
Q6 - Mort walked through the walls a few times but couldn't when he tried to get into the castle. Why do you think this happened?
He was thinking about it too hard and was constantly remembering the wall was there, rather than it being empty space that he can definitely walk through.
Q7- What do you think of Ingneous Cutwell's character?
Oh wizards! Pratchett seems to like casting them as quite hapless.
Q8 - The Abbot has been reincarnated 53 times. The concept of reincarnation is an interesting one. If you were to be born again what life would you choose?
Hmm, I quite like the idea of being a pet dog.
Q9 - Death sent Mort to reap three souls. In light of how he performed do you think Mort was ready for the job?
He did fine with the first 2. A little hesitancy is natural. The third... Oh dear Mort.
Q10 - Mort found Ysabelle's handkerchief in the library. Why is she reading other people's life?
I've read this before so am going to leave this one for those that are new to the story.
Mod
1. Mort is nothing if not determined. He refuses to give up on being a “prentice” until the last stoke of midnight. Then at the very last second, Death arrives for him. Do you think Mort was quick to take the apprenticeship perhaps from feeling humiliated at the days events or was it something that truly intrigued him? Would you have been willing to work for Death?
I think Mort has a thirst for knowledge, and becoming Death's apprentice was a new way for him to learn something - or potentially understand certain things. He may also have been really wanting an apprenticeship, no matter who would have offered it to him, but it just seemed to fit, not in the least because nobody else seemed to think he'd be good (enough) for their trade.
2. Death has a sarcastic tone during this first section. What do you think of his fawning over Mort to ensure he gets new clothes and food and Death eating with him like a regular guy? Is he up to something sinister or does he just want to make Mort comfortable?
DEATH just likes to enjoy life and to learn about people, behaviours etc, plus he probably wants Mort to feel comfortable so tries his best at what other masters might do for their apprentices. Discworld DEATH is one of the least sinister DEATH personas you'll ever encounter. I mean, come on, he gets angry at people drowning cats. A sinister DEATH would not care.
3. Mort may be a bit gangly and lost in his own head at times, but he seems to have a lot of compassion. Upon realizing that he was talking to Death, he asked him to spare his Dad. Later he tries to intervene and warn the King that he was about to be killed and finally on that same trip he wanted to tell the King’s daughter not to trust the Duke. What did you think of all that? Are these normal reactions to someone who is the apprentice to Death? Do you think it will continue as Mort sees more and more of Death’s duty?
It's a normal reaction for someone who feels compassion, for someone who sees right and wrong. Which is one of the important lessons he has to learn as DEATH's apprentice. It isn't about right or wrong, it is about when it is time, it is time. I'm not going to answer the rest as this is a reread for me. Though it has been many years and I can't remember most of the story, but Mort being Mort... :-)
4. What is up with the constant utterance of “Mort” every time someone calls our MC anything other than Mort or Mortimer after arriving at Death’s House and meeting Yasbell? Is there some significance to this or is it just rather annoying?! Lol!
He just wants to be called by his actual name. Nothing wrong with that.
5. Mort, surprisingly, asked Death for an afternoon off. I think our dear Mort is growing up! He explains to Death that he wants to meet people for more than a few minutes. When he arrives in his own time and finds out where he is, he asks if he is near Sto Lat. He seems to have a plan when he says he wants a very fast horse. What do you think he intends? Will it work out like he plans?
He's definitely got a plan. And it involves a certain someone in Sto Lat ;-)
DQs Day 2 - start: "Five minutes later, Mort was lost"end: "Sooner or later, everyone remembered the magic word (p98)
Q6 - Mort walked through the walls a few times but couldn't when he tried to get into the castle. Why do you think this happened?
Well clearly he needs to be in the right frame of mind. I think being scared and not thinking about it helped the time he did it by himself. I am sure he will learn, but he is probably thinking too hard.
Q7- What do you think of Ingneous Cutwell's character?
I think he is funny. I mean, he figured out a great way to make money, and he seems way too preoccupied with love (or maybe its just his clients)
Q8 - The Abbot has been reincarnated 53 times. The concept of reincarnation is an interesting one. If you were to be born again what life would you choose?
That is too hard to say. Does the Abbot even have a choice? If I did get to choose, I would have to think about new experiences and choose something very different.
Q9 - Death sent Mort to reap three souls. In light of how he performed do you think Mort was ready for the job?
No, I don't think he was ready. I do think that something is wrong with Death. I don't think he would have done that so early if he was feeling himself.
Q10 - Mort found Ysabelle's handkerchief in the library. Why is she reading other people's life?
There are so many possibilities. I'd be curious and plenty of people read biographies. My guess is that she is checking up on specific people. Maybe her lost family?
DQs Day 1: (end: "'I want' he said firmly 'a very fast horse.'"19% / Page 52)1. Mort is nothing if not determined. He refuses to give up on being a “prentice” until the last stoke of midnight. Then at the very last second, Death arrives for him. Do you think Mort was quick to take the apprenticeship perhaps from feeling humiliated at the days events or was it something that truly intrigued him? Would you have been willing to work for Death?
Both I think. He was grasping at straws with this last minute offer, but also saw an opportunity that not many will get and was curious about it.
2. Death has a sarcastic tone during this first section. What do you think of his fawning over Mort to ensure he gets new clothes and food and Death eating with him like a regular guy? Is he up to something sinister or does he just want to make Mort comfortable?
Death didn’t really come off as sarcastic to me, more like a little clueless but sincere. He is a caring father who’s worried that his daughter is lonely and wants her to have an age-appropriate friend, and he likes cats :) I think he was just trying to put Mort at ease.
3. Mort may be a bit gangly and lost in his own head at times, but he seems to have a lot of compassion. Upon realizing that he was talking to Death, he asked him to spare his Dad. Later he tries to intervene and warn the King that he was about to be killed and finally on that same trip he wanted to tell the King’s daughter not to trust the Duke. What did you think of all that? Are these normal reactions to someone who is the apprentice to Death? Do you think it will continue as Mort sees more and more of Death’s duty?
I agree, Mort is very compassionate and I think his actions were natural. And brave. He didn’t even have time to think about what he was doing when he tried to save the King, he acted instinctively. That is something he’ll have to adjust, and it probably won’t happen right away.
4. What is up with the constant utterance of “Mort” every time someone calls our MC anything other than Mort or Mortimer after arriving at Death’s House and meeting Yasbell? Is there some significance to this or is it just rather annoying?! Lol!
Poor Mort, no one seems to remember or want to use his name! I’d be frustrated too in his place to be honest and would do something similar.
5. Mort, surprisingly, asked Death for an afternoon off. I think our dear Mort is growing up! He explains to Death that he wants to meet people for more than a few minutes. When he arrives in his own time and finds out where he is, he asks if he is near Sto Lat. He seems to have a plan when he says he wants a very fast horse. What do you think he intends? Will it work out like he plans?
He wants to save the Princess from the Duke of course! :) I very much doubt that things will go as planned.
Day 1: (end: "'I want' he said firmly 'a very fast horse.'"19% / Page 52)1. Mort is nothing if not determined. He refuses to give up on being a “prentice” until the last stoke of midnight. Then at the very last second, Death arrives for him. Do you think Mort was quick to take the apprenticeship perhaps from feeling humiliated at the days events or was it something that truly intrigued him? Would you have been willing to work for Death?
No, I think his name says what he is going to be. I think it truly intrigues him. Not my thing to work for death I'd rather prevent it.
2. Death has a sarcastic tone during this first section. What do you think of his fawning over Mort to ensure he gets new clothes and food and Death eating with him like a regular guy? Is he up to something sinister or does he just want to make Mort comfortable?
He wants to make him comfortable and maybe intents him to marry his daughter.
3. Mort may be a bit gangly and lost in his own head at times, but he seems to have a lot of compassion. Upon realizing that he was talking to Death, he asked him to spare his Dad. Later he tries to intervene and warn the King that he was about to be killed and finally on that same trip he wanted to tell the King’s daughter not to trust the Duke. What did you think of all that? Are these normal reactions to someone who is the apprentice to Death? Do you think it will continue as Mort sees more and more of Death’s duty?
I think they are reactions of a "normal" person. I liked Death's reaction that Mart showing compassion to the king made him more suitable as an apprentice then if he would have enjoyed the kings death. I think Mort will learn that compassion is good, but death is a natural thing and has to be.
4. What is up with the constant utterance of “Mort” every time someone calls our MC anything other than Mort or Mortimer after arriving at Death’s House and meeting Yasbell? Is there some significance to this or is it just rather annoying?! Lol!
I think it's his reaction to being called BOY. It is degrading and I agree with him he has a name and it isn't boy.
5. Mort, surprisingly, asked Death for an afternoon off. I think our dear Mort is growing up! He explains to Death that he wants to meet people for more than a few minutes. When he arrives in his own time and finds out where he is, he asks if he is near Sto Lat. He seems to have a plan when he says he wants a very fast horse. What do you think he intends? Will it work out like he plans?
He is after the king's daughter (now the queen). I think he wants to save her from her uncle and I think he likes her a little.
DQ’s Day 1: (end: "'I want' he said firmly 'a very fast horse.'"19% / Page 52) 1. Mort is nothing if not determined. He refuses to give up on being a “prentice” until the last stoke of midnight. Then at the very last second, Death arrives for him. Do you think Mort was quick to take the apprenticeship perhaps from feeling humiliated at the days events or was it something that truly intrigued him? Would you have been willing to work for Death?
~~~I think he just felt like he didn’t have a choice, take it or he would have nothing. I would definitely be curious about working for Death! Especially because he didn’t seem so bad upon first impression
2. Death has a sarcastic tone during this first section. What do you think of his fawning over Mort to ensure he gets new clothes and food and Death eating with him like a regular guy? Is he up to something sinister or does he just want to make Mort comfortable?
~~~ I think Death just wants Mort to look normal, like he is an extension of Death’s reputation.
3. Mort may be a bit gangly and lost in his own head at times, but he seems to have a lot of compassion. Upon realizing that he was talking to Death, he asked him to spare his Dad. Later he tries to intervene and warn the King that he was about to be killed and finally on that same trip he wanted to tell the King’s daughter not to trust the Duke. What did you think of all that? Are these normal reactions to someone who is the apprentice to Death? Do you think it will continue as Mort sees more and more of Death’s duty?
~~~ Aww, Mort just seems like a nice guy. Just simple minded. But I think I would be the same way in his position. I would definitely want to warn people to “run for the hills!”
4. What is up with the constant utterance of “Mort” every time someone calls our MC anything other than Mort or Mortimer after arriving at Death’s House and meeting Yasbell? Is there some significance to this or is it just rather annoying?! Lol!
~~~ Ha! I didn’t notice until I read this question but I think he is just trying to clarify his name, rather than being called “boy”’or “lad”. Like
He wants to be visible and known. There might be a significance, but it’s something I read about later in the book, so I’ll hold my tongue.
5. Mort, surprisingly, asked Death for an afternoon off. I think our dear Mort is growing up! He explains to Death that he wants to meet people for more than a few minutes. When he arrives in his own time and finds out where he is, he asks if he is near Sto Lat. He seems to have a plan when he says he wants a very fast horse. What do you think he intends? Will it work out like he plans
~~~ I had no idea of his intentions, it did seem out of character for Mort to strike out on the town…
DQs Day 2 - start: "Five minutes later, Mort was lost"end: "Sooner or later, everyone remembered the magic word (p98)
Q6 - Mort walked through the walls a few times but couldn't when he tried to get into the castle. Why do you think this happened?
~~~ I had assumed he over thought about it. When he didn’t think about it, he was able to do it.
Q7- What do you think of Ingneous Cutwell's character?
~~~ He ironically reminds me a bit of Mort. Like a young and starting out Wizard.
Q8 - The Abbot has been reincarnated 53 times. The concept of reincarnation is an interesting one. If you were to be born again what life would you choose?
~~~ I would have like to live in the United States during the 1940’s and 1950’s. It seemed like a much simpler life, where the new age of electronics wasn’t around to complicate things. I’d be happy being a woman during this time.
Q9 - Death sent Mort to reap three souls. In light of how he performed do you think Mort was ready for the job?
~~~ heck no! He was not prepared at all. But all things considered I think the job was going to happen no matter what he did.
Q10 - Mort found Ysabelle's handkerchief in the library. Why is she reading other people's life?
~~~ I think Ysabelle is unhappy with her current life , and she is seeking adventure through others lives. Reminds me of my reading habit, not that I’m an unhappy person, I just like adventure!
DQs Day 2 - start: "Five minutes later, Mort was lost"end: "Sooner or later, everyone remembered the magic word (p98)
Q6 - Mort walked through the walls a few times but couldn't when he tried to get into the castle. Why do you think this happened?
Lack of confidence would be my first guess. Second may be that there are layers of protection around the palace.
Q7- What do you think of Ingneous Cutwell's character?
He reminded me a little bit of the wizard from Wizard of Oz. This is what I imagine all wizards to be like.
Q8 - The Abbot has been reincarnated 53 times. The concept of reincarnation is an interesting one. If you were to be born again what life would you choose?
I am honestly not quite sure what I would come back as. I would have to give this more thought.
Q9 - Death sent Mort to reap three souls. In light of how he performed do you think Mort was ready for the job?
I don’t think he was necessarily ready as he didn’t seem to apprentice with Death for too long. He was also reluctant to perform the tasks in which would make death happen.
Q10 - Mort found Ysabelle's handkerchief in the library. Why is she reading other people's life?
I would assume that she wants to live vicariously through them as her current world is pretty small.
DQs Day 2 - start: "Five minutes later, Mort was lost"end: "Sooner or later, everyone remembered the magic word (p98)
Q6 - Mort walked through the walls a few times but couldn't when he tried to get into the castle. Why do you think this happened?
At the moment he can only do it when he's not aware that it's happening. He needs to be more absent-minded about walls, haha!
Q7- What do you think of Ingneous Cutwell's character?
I did chuckle that one of Granny's potions made an appearance here - being sold by a wizard, no less! Cutwell seems quite likeable and is a more successful wizard than Rincewind, anyway.
Q8 - The Abbot has been reincarnated 53 times. The concept of reincarnation is an interesting one. If you were to be born again what life would you choose?
I think I'd rather not go through being a teenager again, thanks. Of course I wouldn't remember that I'd done it before, but nonetheless, once was enough.
Q9 - Death sent Mort to reap three souls. In light of how he performed do you think Mort was ready for the job?
He did well enough for his first time - until he got to the last, of course. He still can't accept that he can't save anyone.
Q10 - Mort found Ysabelle's handkerchief in the library. Why is she reading other people's life?
She's got no-one to talk to, and who could resist all those books?
DQs Day 2 Q6 - Mort walked through the walls a few times but couldn't when he tried to get into the castle. Why do you think this happened? He was trying too hard and when he just let things happen, he was able to do amazing things.
Q7- What do you think of Ingneous Cutwell's character? I think he's a con artist in a wizard hat.
Q8 - The Abbot has been reincarnated 53 times. The concept of reincarnation is an interesting one. If you were to be born again what life would you choose? It wouldn't matter because I wouldn't remember the lessons learned from this one.
Q9 - Death sent Mort to reap three souls. In light of how he performed do you think Mort was ready for the job? No, he wasn't. Poor thing.
Q10 - Mort found Ysabelle's handkerchief in the library. Why is she reading other people's life? Because she has no life of her own and wishes for the lives of others.
Mod
end: "Sooner or later, everyone remembered the magic word (p98)
Q6 - Mort walked through the walls a few times but couldn't when he tried to get into the castle. Why do you think this happened?
He was overthinking it and not in a state of stress, like when he burst into the Klatchian family's house.
Q7- What do you think of Ingneous Cutwell's character?
He's making his way as best he can, and knows his customers even if his attention to what he's doing isn't the best - necking his viagra-potion for instance!
Q8 - The Abbot has been reincarnated 53 times. The concept of reincarnation is an interesting one. If you were to be born again what life would you choose?
I don't know, but I enjoyed that his last presence was to shout as loudly as possible, having had to be silent for all his lives!
Q9 - Death sent Mort to reap three souls. In light of how he performed do you think Mort was ready for the job?
I'm not sure you'd ever be ready! He was lucky that the first two were pros at it so he didn't have to deal with the chat Death often does. That said he failed spectacularly on his third, didn't he?!
Q10 - Mort found Ysabel's handkerchief in the library. Why is she reading other people's life?
She's lonely - it's just been her, Albert & Death for her life, hasn't it? So she's found a way to connect with the world. The fact that it's not particularly healthy we'll leave aside!
DQs Day 1: (end: "'I want' he said firmly 'a very fast horse.'"19% / Page 52)1. Mort is nothing if not determined. He refuses to give up on being a “prentice” until the last stoke of midnight. Then at the very last second, Death arrives for him. Do you think Mort was quick to take the apprenticeship perhaps from feeling humiliated at the days events or was it something that truly intrigued him? Would you have been willing to work for Death?
I think he probably took it because it was all that was offered to him and he didn't want to let his dad down. Sure, I'd work for Death, why not.
2. Death has a sarcastic tone during this first section. What do you think of his fawning over Mort to ensure he gets new clothes and food and Death eating with him like a regular guy? Is he up to something sinister or does he just want to make Mort comfortable?
I don't think he's up to anything sinister, probably just trying to make him comfortable.
3. Mort may be a bit gangly and lost in his own head at times, but he seems to have a lot of compassion. Upon realizing that he was talking to Death, he asked him to spare his Dad. Later he tries to intervene and warn the King that he was about to be killed and finally on that same trip he wanted to tell the King’s daughter not to trust the Duke. What did you think of all that? Are these normal reactions to someone who is the apprentice to Death? Do you think it will continue as Mort sees more and more of Death’s duty?
I think that's a totally normal reaction to being thrown into Death's world. I think over time he will get used to it and adhere more to non-interference.
4. What is up with the constant utterance of “Mort” every time someone calls our MC anything other than Mort or Mortimer after arriving at Death’s House and meeting Yasbell? Is there some significance to this or is it just rather annoying?! Lol!
He's probably just trying to stick up for himself and insist that people treat him with a little respect.
5. Mort, surprisingly, asked Death for an afternoon off. I think our dear Mort is growing up! He explains to Death that he wants to meet people for more than a few minutes. When he arrives in his own time and finds out where he is, he asks if he is near Sto Lat. He seems to have a plan when he says he wants a very fast horse. What do you think he intends? Will it work out like he plans?
I think he probably wants to warn the princess, I doubt it will go as planned.
DQs Day 2Q6 - Mort walked through the walls a few times but couldn't when he tried to get into the castle. Why do you think this happened?
I agree with everyone here. He can do it subconsciously but when he actually wants to do it and concentrates, it doesn't work. I find that's quite typical in life.
Q7- What do you think of Ingneous Cutwell's character?
What I've noticed so far in the Discworld is that wizards' skills are quite unreliable. They're all pretty clumsy but quite funny. Witches have been proven to be a bit more effective with their "headology" so far.
Q8 - The Abbot has been reincarnated 53 times. The concept of reincarnation is an interesting one. If you were to be born again what life would you choose?
I had the impression that he found it exhausting going through it over and over again. I'm content with one life, however if I really have to I would preferably be reincarnated in a solitary animal far away from human civilization and their pollution. Sammy's suggestion of a bear seems a good option.
Q9 - Death sent Mort to reap three souls. In light of how he performed do you think Mort was ready for the job?
No, but are we ever ready when we do something that's completely new to us? He was baptized by fire but it was inevitable. By making mistakes he will learn. I'm pretty sure after what he did, he won't do it again.
Q10 - Mort found Ysabelle's handkerchief in the library. Why is she reading other people's life?
She's just lonely and she's living vicariously through other people's lives.
DQs Day 1: (end: "'I want' he said firmly 'a very fast horse.'"19% / Page 52)1. Mort is nothing if not determined. He refuses to give up on being a “prentice” until the last stoke of midnight. Then at the very last second, Death arrives for him. Do you think Mort was quick to take the apprenticeship perhaps from feeling humiliated at the days events or was it something that truly intrigued him? Would you have been willing to work for Death?
I think he is intrigued. I would have been intrigued as well.
2. Death has a sarcastic tone during this first section. What do you think of his fawning over Mort to ensure he gets new clothes and food and Death eating with him like a regular guy? Is he up to something sinister or does he just want to make Mort comfortable?
I think he just wants to make Mort more comfortable
3. Mort may be a bit gangly and lost in his own head at times, but he seems to have a lot of compassion. Upon realizing that he was talking to Death, he asked him to spare his Dad. Later he tries to intervene and warn the King that he was about to be killed and finally on that same trip he wanted to tell the King’s daughter not to trust the Duke. What did you think of all that? Are these normal reactions to someone who is the apprentice to Death? Do you think it will continue as Mort sees more and more of Death’s duty?
I think Mort is afraid of death and dying, so he tries to spare people when he can. I think it is normal for someone who just started on the journey of being DEATH's apprentice. DEATH even mentioned that he admired Mort's compassion and that would in the long term make him good at the job.
4. What is up with the constant utterance of “Mort” every time someone calls our MC anything other than Mort or Mortimer after arriving at Death’s House and meeting Yasbell? Is there some significance to this or is it just rather annoying?! Lol!
He wants to have an identity. I totally feel for him. I have had times when I felt like I didn't have an identity of my own (I was always ____'s wife or ____'s mom. I finally did what Mort is doing and said "my name is Amy" to establish an identity for myself.
5. Mort, surprisingly, asked Death for an afternoon off. I think our dear Mort is growing up! He explains to Death that he wants to meet people for more than a few minutes. When he arrives in his own time and finds out where he is, he asks if he is near Sto Lat. He seems to have a plan when he says he wants a very fast horse. What do you think he intends? Will it work out like he plans?
I think he wants to find the princess to warn her (maybe woo her?)
DQs Day 2 - start: "Five minutes later, Mort was lost"
end: "Sooner or later, everyone remembered the magic word (p98)
Q6 - Mort walked through the walls a few times but couldn't when he tried to get into the castle. Why do you think this happened?
I think it is an ability that appears when needed, as in an emergency situation. When he was trying to walk through the castle walls, it wasn't an emergency, so the ability didn't present itself.
Q7- What do you think of Ingneous Cutwell's character?
He seems to be a scatterbrained fraud.
Q8 - The Abbot has been reincarnated 53 times. The concept of reincarnation is an interesting one. If you were to be born again what life would you choose?
I don't know. I would hope that I could have a life that had a little less crap in it than the one I am living now.
Q9 - Death sent Mort to reap three souls. In light of how he performed do you think Mort was ready for the job?
He totally needed more training. It is a good thing the people he went to reap were patient and helpful to him.
Q10 - Mort found Ysabelle's handkerchief in the library. Why is she reading other people's life?
I think she is bored and wants to see what it is like in other places.
DQs Day 2 - start: "Five minutes later, Mort was lost"end: "Sooner or later, everyone remembered the magic word (p98)
Q6 - Mort walked through the walls a few times but couldn't when he tried to get into the castle. Why do you think this happened?
Probably because he was thinking about it too much. Performance anxiety!
Q7- What do you think of Ingneous Cutwell's character?
He's pretty charming!
Q8 - The Abbot has been reincarnated 53 times. The concept of reincarnation is an interesting one. If you were to be born again what life would you choose?
If would choose not to be born again if that were an option.
Q9 - Death sent Mort to reap three souls. In light of how he performed do you think Mort was ready for the job?
I don't think he was ready for the job at all, his confidence just isn't there.
Q10 - Mort found Ysabelle's handkerchief in the library. Why is she reading other people's life?
Probably because she's lonely and looking for a connection with the outside world.,
DQs Day 2 - start: "Five minutes later, Mort was lost" end: "Sooner or later, everyone remembered the magic word (p98)Q6 - Mort walked through the walls a few times but couldn't when he tried to get into the castle. Why do you think this happened?
I'm not sure. Maybe he was trying too hard? You know, the elephant theory in alchemy.
Q7- What do you think of Ingneous Cutwell's character?
Kinda annoying, honestly. I like the door knocker gargoyle better.
Q8 - The Abbot has been reincarnated 53 times. The concept of reincarnation is an interesting one. If you were to be born again what life would you choose?
Oh! I don't think I'd care one way or another since I wouldn't remember the life until I was dead again. But choosing, I guess I'd want to try something different. Have different privileges.
Q9 - Death sent Mort to reap three souls. In light of how he performed do you think Mort was ready for the job?
I think Mort did fabulous all things considered. I think he was ready. That he'd asked for time off turned into DEATH asking for time off. So fair's fair there.
Q10 - Mort found Ysabelle's handkerchief in the library. Why is she reading other people's life?
Contextually, I figured it was probably Ysabelle's, but I didn't know for sure until I read this question. >_>;; Anyway, she's probably lonely - as implied by DEATH who mentioned her having a friend in Mort.
DQs Day 1: (end: "'I want' he said firmly 'a very fast horse.'"19% / Page 52)1. Mort is nothing if not determined. He refuses to give up on being a “prentice” until the last stoke of midnight. Then at the very last second, Death arrives for him. Do you think Mort was quick to take the apprenticeship perhaps from feeling humiliated at the days events or was it something that truly intrigued him? Would you have been willing to work for Death?
I don't know if he was humiliated or not - that didn't strike me as his character at the time. But I do think he was concerned about disappointing his dad. Staying until the last stroke of midnight may have been related to that or just part of his quirky nature. Either way, I think he was truly intrigued by Death's offer. Working for the Discworld version of Death doesn't seem so bad, but in general, that wouldn't be an ideal fit for me.
2. Death has a sarcastic tone during this first section. What do you think of his fawning over Mort to ensure he gets new clothes and food and Death eating with him like a regular guy? Is he up to something sinister or does he just want to make Mort comfortable?
I didn't feel he was being sarcastic or fawning. It all seemed pretty normal to me - or as normal as apprenticing to Death could be. I like Death's character so far and find it all quite humorous. I love that he literally looks like the Grim Reaper and is therefore always smiling, and I love how often the narration points that out. 😂
I don't think he has anything sinister planned at all, but I don't have a good sense of what he hopes to accomplish. He seems so certain about taking Mort on as an apprentice at first, but then it's as if he has forgotten who Mort is the next day. I'm curious to see how this all works out.
3. Mort may be a bit gangly and lost in his own head at times, but he seems to have a lot of compassion. Upon realizing that he was talking to Death, he asked him to spare his Dad. Later he tries to intervene and warn the King that he was about to be killed and finally on that same trip he wanted to tell the King’s daughter not to trust the Duke. What did you think of all that? Are these normal reactions to someone who is the apprentice to Death? Do you think it will continue as Mort sees more and more of Death’s duty?
I think it's definitely normal and human for Mort to react this way. As Death indicated, I would have been disturbed if Mort hadn't reacted this way. Just because he accepted the apprenticeship doesn't mean he really understands what all the job entails yet. It will be interesting to see if and how he changes as the book continues.
4. What is up with the constant utterance of “Mort” every time someone calls our MC anything other than Mort or Mortimer after arriving at Death’s House and meeting Yasbell? Is there some significance to this or is it just rather annoying?! Lol!
I don't know if there's any greater significance to it or not, but it's certainly understandable. I can see why Ysabell does it because she acts like she's annoyed by his presence and wants to seem superior. (It also reminds me of Buttercup calling Westley "Farm Boy" in The Princess Bride.) But it's annoying that Death has started doing it too.
5. Mort, surprisingly, asked Death for an afternoon off. I think our dear Mort is growing up! He explains to Death that he wants to meet people for more than a few minutes. When he arrives in his own time and finds out where he is, he asks if he is near Sto Lat. He seems to have a plan when he says he wants a very fast horse. What do you think he intends? Will it work out like he plans?
I can't tell if going to Sto Lat was his plan all along or if he just decided to do that once he got to Ankh-Morpork. But it seems clear now that he wants to try to meet up with the new queen and warn her about her treacherous uncle and possibly just get to know her better. I can understand his desire to have some normal human interaction.
Day 2 questionsQ6 - Mort walked through the walls a few times but couldn't when he tried to get into the castle. Why do you think this happened?
The first time it just happened - without conscious thought - now he wanted to and his conscience kicked in stopping him. Magic is capricious on Discworld.
Q7- What do you think of Ingneous Cutwell's character?
He is a smart man in the wrong job - more of a scholar than a Wizard. Preferred his front door knocker
Q8 - The Abbot has been reincarnated 53 times. The concept of reincarnation is an interesting one. If you were to be born again what life would you choose?
Interesting question. I would like to be a happy person with a great life, no hardships, calamities or sickness. Just a normal person.
Q9 - Death sent Mort to reap three souls. In light of how he performed do you think Mort was ready for the job?
Not really, I think he understood the theory, but was still human enough to ignore being dispassionate and let his compassion take charge.
Q10 - Mort found Ysabelle's handkerchief in the library. Why is she reading other people's life?
Can’t say - is a good reason.
Angie ☯5524 books | 300 friends
see comment historyDQs Day 1: (end: "'I want' he said firmly 'a very fast horse.'"19% / Page 52)
1. Mort is nothing if not determined. He refuses to give up on being a “prentice” until the last stoke of midnight. Then at the very last second, Death arrives for him. Do you think Mort was quick to take the apprenticeship perhaps from feeling humiliated at the days events or was it something that truly intrigued him? Would you have been willing to work for Death?
I think there were elements of pride and not going back with his father. But he also seems a bright type of boy who is interested in the world and working for Death was an opportunity he couldn't refuse.
2. Death has a sarcastic tone during this first section. What do you think of his fawning over Mort to ensure he gets new clothes and food and Death eating with him like a regular guy? Is he up to something sinister or does he just want to make Mort comfortable?
I think Death has taken a shine to Mort. Also even though he is Death he isn't cruel or evil, just doing a job. He doesn't actual kill people, just does what comes next.
3. Mort may be a bit gangly and lost in his own head at times, but he seems to have a lot of compassion. Upon realizing that he was talking to Death, he asked him to spare his Dad. Later he tries to intervene and warn the King that he was about to be killed and finally on that same trip he wanted to tell the King’s daughter not to trust the Duke. What did you think of all that? Are these normal reactions to someone who is the apprentice to Death? Do you think it will continue as Mort sees more and more of Death’s duty?
I like Mort, he seems like a considerate, kind young man. Hopefully that won't change as the story progresses
4. What is up with the constant utterance of “Mort” every time someone calls our MC anything other than Mort or Mortimer after arriving at Death’s House and meeting Yasbell? Is there some significance to this or is it just rather annoying?! Lol!
I think there is more to Mort than meets the eye. He has self esteem, pride and wants to be treated more than the hired help.. he has ambitions and wants to progress in the world.
5. Mort, surprisingly, asked Death for an afternoon off. I think our dear Mort is growing up! He explains to Death that he wants to meet people for more than a few minutes. When he arrives in his own time and finds out where he is, he asks if he is near Sto Lat. He seems to have a plan when he says he wants a very fast horse. What do you think he intends? Will it work out like he plans?
It's something to do with the Princess.. now Queen. Mort is intrigued that she seemed to "see" him and wants to find out why . He is drawn to her somehow.
DQs Day 1: (end: "'I want' he said firmly 'a very fast horse.'"19% / Page 52)1. Mort is nothing if not determined. He refuses to give up on being a “prentice” until the last stoke of midnight. Then at the very last second, Death arrives for him. Do you think Mort was quick to take the apprenticeship perhaps from feeling humiliated at the days events or was it something that truly intrigued him? Would you have been willing to work for Death?
I think he had no other real choice left. I'm sure he was humiliated not to have been chosen all day/night! I don't think I would have been thrilled to ride off with Death.
2. Death has a sarcastic tone during this first section. What do you think of his fawning over Mort to ensure he gets new clothes and food and Death eating with him like a regular guy? Is he up to something sinister or does he just want to make Mort comfortable?
I'm thinking he wants to take Mort home for his daughter. He seems like a nice dude, he just has a sucky job!
3. Mort may be a bit gangly and lost in his own head at times, but he seems to have a lot of compassion. Upon realizing that he was talking to Death, he asked him to spare his Dad. Later he tries to intervene and warn the King that he was about to be killed and finally on that same trip he wanted to tell the King’s daughter not to trust the Duke. What did you think of all that? Are these normal reactions to someone who is the apprentice to Death? Do you think it will continue as Mort sees more and more of Death’s duty?
I think Mort will have a very difficult time not being such a nice guy!
He's going to have to stop trying to warn people about their impending doom. I'm surprised Death didn't get really angry with Mort!
4. What is up with the constant utterance of “Mort” every time someone calls our MC anything other than Mort or Mortimer after arriving at Death’s House and meeting Yasbell? Is there some significance to this or is it just rather annoying?! Lol!
He wants to be called by his name. Surely that's not unreasonable. Everybody wants a little respect, right?
5. Mort, surprisingly, asked Death for an afternoon off. I think our dear Mort is growing up! He explains to Death that he wants to meet people for more than a few minutes. When he arrives in his own time and finds out where he is, he asks if he is near Sto Lat. He seems to have a plan when he says he wants a very fast horse. What do you think he intends? Will it work out like he plans?
He wants to pay a visit to the King's daughter, of course! He probably would've been better off at a whorehouse! This will not end well...
Mod
Q6 - Mort walked through the walls a few times but couldn't when he tried to get into the castle. Why do you think this happened?
Conscious thought ruins a lot, especially for someone like Mort who questions everything and would like to know how the world works.
Q7- What do you think of Ingneous Cutwell's character?
A wizard who dabbles in witchcraft, it seems. He's a bit of an odd one but I haven't really been able to make much of him so far.
Q8 - The Abbot has been reincarnated 53 times. The concept of reincarnation is an interesting one. If you were to be born again what life would you choose?
I find it curious that he goes back to being reincarnated as someone who would join The Listeners over and over again. He must be really into this Listening thing.
Q9 - Death sent Mort to reap three souls. In light of how he performed do you think Mort was ready for the job?
Yes and no. It may have been too soon for him to go out on his own, but he was definitely ready to do the job since he's been with DEATH for quite a while already now. But it did go well enough, I thought! Except for Keli of course, but that was to be expected and there is an important lesson in that mistake for Mort, I'm sure.
Q10 - Mort found Ysabelle's handkerchief in the library. Why is she reading other people's life?
Maybe to see what life is like? Or to find out about her family? After all she is adopted and doesn't seem to get out much, so these books could be a sort of gateway into the outside world for her. Or she's reading romance novels, hence the handkerchief ;-)
DQ Day2Q6 - Mort walked through the walls a few times but couldn't when he tried to get into the castle. Why do you think this happened?
He doesn’t know how to make it happen consciously, and it seems to happen to him when he needs it.
Q7- What do you think of Ingneous Cutwell's character?
He is oddly funny. Any person with a talking doorknob has to be interesting. The gargoyle’s better though.
Q8 - The Abbot has been reincarnated 53 times. The concept of reincarnation is an interesting one. If you were to be born again what life would you choose?
If not a human, I will like being a dolphin. It’s an intelligent animal, and it gets to stay in water all the time.
Q9 - Death sent Mort to reap three souls. In light of how he performed do you think Mort was ready for the job?
He did a pretty good job. The three souls he was sent for were certainly not easy ones. And one has to learn on the job.
Q10 - Mort found Ysabelle's handkerchief in the library. Why is she reading other people's life?
Who knows! I would want to read about other people if I was living only with Death and Albert.
DQs Day 2 - start: "Five minutes later, Mort was lost"end: "Sooner or later, everyone remembered the magic word (p98)
Q6 - Mort walked through the walls a few times but couldn't when he tried to get into the castle. Why do you think this happened?
Perhaps there is a type of magic guard around those walls - then again Death keeps saying magic doesn't really exist, although it clearly does. Maybe whatever controls it feels he is not ready. I really don't know on this one.
Q7- What do you think of Ingneous Cutwell's character?
He was amusing like most of the characters, but a bit out there. The doorknob was a treat.
Q8 - The Abbot has been reincarnated 53 times. The concept of reincarnation is an interesting one. If you were to be born again what life would you choose?
Hm. I would choose the life of a creative go-getter born into a decently wealthy family in Ireland.
Q9 - Death sent Mort to reap three souls. In light of how he performed do you think Mort was ready for the job?
No, he definitely didn't seem ready, but sometimes the best way to learn is hands-on experience!
Q10 - Mort found Ysabelle's handkerchief in the library. Why is she reading other people's life?
I'm not sure what to think of Ysabelle yet. So far she seems truly unpleasant, but I have a feeling she'll show softer, good sides later.
It's early here in my time zone and I have hours of work left with office. I will have my questions for Day 3 posted for you all later this afternoon. :)
DQs Day 1: (end: "'I want' he said firmly 'a very fast horse.'"19% / Page 52)1. Mort is nothing if not determined. He refuses to give up on being a “prentice” until the last stoke of midnight. Then at the very last second, Death arrives for him. Do you think Mort was quick to take the apprenticeship perhaps from feeling humiliated at the days events or was it something that truly intrigued him? Would you have been willing to work for Death?
We saw Mort was unusual from the first, which is why he was even there. I thought he took it because he didn't want to go home a failure, plus, maybe because he's odd, it didn't scare him.
2. Death has a sarcastic tone during this first section. What do you think of his fawning over Mort to ensure he gets new clothes and food and Death eating with him like a regular guy? Is he up to something sinister or does he just want to make Mort comfortable?
Death is odd, and KIND of understands being human but also has a way different perspective. I think he was taking care of Mort because as his new master, that's what he needs to do.
3. Mort may be a bit gangly and lost in his own head at times, but he seems to have a lot of compassion. Upon realizing that he was talking to Death, he asked him to spare his Dad. Later he tries to intervene and warn the King that he was about to be killed and finally on that same trip he wanted to tell the King’s daughter not to trust the Duke. What did you think of all that? Are these normal reactions to someone who is the apprentice to Death? Do you think it will continue as Mort sees more and more of Death’s duty?
I think Mort will gain a lot more understanding that dying is inevitable. Right now he's having the normal human reactions.
4. What is up with the constant utterance of “Mort” every time someone calls our MC anything other than Mort or Mortimer after arriving at Death’s House and meeting Yasbell? Is there some significance to this or is it just rather annoying?! Lol! It's just like someone in any job who has a name they strongly preferred. I'm always too scared to correct :)
5. Mort, surprisingly, asked Death for an afternoon off. I think our dear Mort is growing up! He explains to Death that he wants to meet people for more than a few minutes. When he arrives in his own time and finds out where he is, he asks if he is near Sto Lat. He seems to have a plan when he says he wants a very fast horse. What do you think he intends? Will it work out like he plans?
I think he still wants to help the princess. I very much doubt his plan will work.
DQs Day 1: (end: "'I want' he said firmly 'a very fast horse.'"19% / Page 52)1. Mort is nothing if not determined. He refuses to give up on being a “prentice” until the last stroke of midnight. Then at the very last second, Death arrives for him. Do you think Mort was quick to take the apprenticeship perhaps from feeling humiliated at the days events or was it something that truly intrigued him? Would you have been willing to work for Death?
He definitely took this job solely because it was the only one offered to him. Even his father was hesitant to have him accept it.
Who wants to work for Death!? Definitely not me...
2. Death has a sarcastic tone during this first section. What do you think of his fawning over Mort to ensure he gets new clothes and food and Death eating with him like a regular guy? Is he up to something sinister or does he just want to make Mort comfortable?
I think this is Death's way of "getting to know" Mort. Getting to know what he can trust in Mort and what he can get Mort to do.
3. Mort may be a bit gangly and lost in his own head at times, but he seems to have a lot of compassion. Upon realizing that he was talking to Death, he asked him to spare his Dad. Later he tries to intervene and warn the King that he was about to be killed and finally on that same trip he wanted to tell the King’s daughter not to trust the Duke. What did you think of all that? Are these normal reactions to someone who is the apprentice to Death? Do you think it will continue as Mort sees more and more of Death’s duty?
He is far too compassionate to be Death's apprentice. I predict there will be an occurrence when it all becomes too much for Mort to handle.
4. What is up with the constant utterance of “Mort” every time someone calls our MC anything other than Mort or Mortimer after arriving at Death’s House and meeting Yasbell? Is there some significance to this or is it just rather annoying?! Lol!
I laugh every time he does this. This is his way of making his mark in the world. He wants to be known by his name, certainly not by "boy".
5. Mort, surprisingly, asked Death for an afternoon off. I think our dear Mort is growing up! He explains to Death that he wants to meet people for more than a few minutes. When he arrives in his own time and finds out where he is, he asks if he is near Sto Lat. He seems to have a plan when he says he wants a very fast horse. What do you think he intends? Will it work out like he plans?
He is off to discover new parts. I do feel that he is going to run into some trouble along the way.
Day 3 Questions end: "Then Cutwell sighted carefully ... [spoiler removed]" (p151 / 58%)Q11. Do you think Mort is physically changing? When it says, "The gargoyle looked up into his face and suddenly felt like a very frightened doorknocker indeed, Mort's eyes glowed like crucibles, his expression was a furnace, his voice held enough enough to melt iron. It didn't know what he could do, but felt that it would prefer not to find out." - it seems these may be actual physical manifestations. With the photo Mort sees soon after with the wizard Cutwell, do you think that was originally Death in the photo before a transformation?
Q12. What do you think about the plot point where Keli is dead, but is not? Do you think this was a clever twist of the author or do you find it a confusing jumble? How will this affect the story and will Death find out what actually happened and react?
Q13. There suddenly seems to be sign that Death may be playing matchmaker of sorts with Mort and his 'daughter'. Are you surprised, and what do you think will happen with the relationship between him and Ysabel?
Q14. Do you think that before Mort was chosen by Death, that he was a normal boy? Do you think he must have some wizard properties buried or are his "abilities" gathered from being Death's apprentice? What do you think about Mort attracting death's attention - what is so special about him?
Q15. Mort seems to be getting a bit homesick after his day off, and Death is changing his tune as well. What do you think about Death's new adventures to experience some human experiences, try to understand fun and how humans behave?
Day 3 Questions end: "Then Cutwell sighted carefully ... [spoiler removed]" (p151 / 58%)Q11. Do you think Mort is physically changing? When it says, "The gargoyle looked up into his face and suddenly felt like a very frightened doorknocker indeed, Mort's eyes glowed like crucibles, his expression was a furnace, his voice held enough enough to melt iron. It didn't know what he could do, but felt that it would prefer not to find out." - it seems these may be actual physical manifestations. With the photo Mort sees soon after with the wizard Cutwell, do you think that was originally Death in the photo before a transformation?
Mort definitely seems to be changing. Not sure about Death or how though. There are multiple references to him seeming 'more real'. Plus, Albert and Ysabel don't age or change in the same way. I don't remember the picture right now, so not sure.
Q12. What do you think about the plot point where Keli is dead, but is not? Do you think this was a clever twist of the author or do you find it a confusing jumble? How will this affect the story and will Death find out what actually happened and react?
Well, history is trying to fix that. A very interesting way of dealing with it. I had expected that something bad might happen but that it would converge on the new real not the old. I do think it is clever given this world has fated timelines. Death will likely find out.
Q13. There suddenly seems to be sign that Death may be playing matchmaker of sorts with Mort and his 'daughter'. Are you surprised, and what do you think will happen with the relationship between him and Ysabel?
I thought earlier that this was Death's plan. He is trying so hard to help his humans but doesn't know what it is like. I do think that Mort and Ysabelle are getting to know and like each other more but I would be surprised if it goes beyond that.
Q14. Do you think that before Mort was chosen by Death, that he was a normal boy? Do you think he must have some wizard properties buried or are his "abilities" gathered from being Death's apprentice? What do you think about Mort attracting death's attention - what is so special about him?
I think that Mort is normal as far as being human but he didn't fit the norm for people in his village. I don't know that Death really thought about it. He was the only boy there, the right age, and not afraid of him. As for his abilities, I'm not sure. I'm leaning toward Death helping him to figure them out. Wizards go to school to learn how to see things others can't, so this could be similar.
Q15. Mort seems to be getting a bit homesick after his day off, and Death is changing his tune as well. What do you think about Death's new adventures to experience some human experiences, try to understand fun and how humans behave?
Well, nothing is going as either of them expected. Death's experiences trying to understand humans seems to be making him restless and less like 'Death'. I do think it will change how he deals with the Mort/Princess issue once he hears about it. Not sure that he can really change it. Maybe he'll bring the Princess to his home as well?
Day 3 QuestionsQ11. Do you think Mort is physically changing? When it says, "The gargoyle looked up into his face and suddenly felt like a very frightened doorknocker indeed, Mort's eyes glowed like crucibles, his expression was a furnace, his voice held enough enough to melt iron. It didn't know what he could do, but felt that it would prefer not to find out." - it seems these may be actual physical manifestations. With the photo Mort sees soon after with the wizard Cutwell, do you think that was originally Death in the photo before a transformation? Yes, Mort is physically changing but I don't know why when everything else is stagnant in DEATH's realm. I know who the photo is, but Shhh.. spoilers.
Q12. What do you think about the plot point where Keli is dead, but is not? Do you think this was a clever twist of the author or do you find it a confusing jumble? How will this affect the story and will Death find out what actually happened and react? I think this is the consequences for the broken rules that the Universe runs. It's not a jumble as it teaches Mort (and the reader) of those rules and what happens when the world tries to correct itself. DEATH will find out, but I don't remember his reaction.
Q13. There suddenly seems to be sign that Death may be playing matchmaker of sorts with Mort and his 'daughter'. Are you surprised, and what do you think will happen with the relationship between him and Ysabel? I know what happens, and I'm not spoiling anything.
Q14. Do you think that before Mort was chosen by Death, that he was a normal boy? Do you think he must have some wizard properties buried or are his "abilities" gathered from being Death's apprentice? What do you think about Mort attracting death's attention - what is so special about him? No, I don't think he's normal, but whether he has latent wizard abilities or it's just the powers coming from the mantle of DEATH, we may never know. I do know that he was destined to be apprenticed to DEATH and things are playing out as they should.
Q15. Mort seems to be getting a bit homesick after his day off, and Death is changing his tune as well. What do you think about Death's new adventures to experience some human experiences, try to understand fun and how humans behave? DEATH is having a bit of an existential crisis, poor thing. He wants to understand the human experience, but as an anthropomorphic representation of DEATH, he is outside the bounds of humanity. He serves a great purpose, but that purpose doesn't require his understanding.
DQs Day 1: (end: "'I want' he said firmly 'a very fast horse.'"19% / Page 52)1. Mort is nothing if not determined. He refuses to give up on being a “prentice” until the last stoke of midnight. Then at the very last second, Death arrives for him. Do you think Mort was quick to take the apprenticeship perhaps from feeling humiliated at the days events or was it something that truly intrigued him? Would you have been willing to work for Death?
I thought it was a mix of both seeing as he was the last one standing (no one wanting him). I don't think I would be intrigued as much by Death. Would be running the other way really.
2. Death has a sarcastic tone during this first section. What do you think of his fawning over Mort to ensure he gets new clothes and food and Death eating with him like a regular guy? Is he up to something sinister or does he just want to make Mort comfortable?
I do think he was doing it for Mort, nothing sinister about it. It was actually really nice.
3. Mort may be a bit gangly and lost in his own head at times, but he seems to have a lot of compassion. Upon realizing that he was talking to Death, he asked him to spare his Dad. Later he tries to intervene and warn the King that he was about to be killed and finally on that same trip he wanted to tell the King’s daughter not to trust the Duke. What did you think of all that? Are these normal reactions to someone who is the apprentice to Death? Do you think it will continue as Mort sees more and more of Death’s duty?
I think he has a good heart but in that line of business, that's not going to work out. Death doesn't discriminate and happens when it's going to happen. I would assume that he would change in time but at this particular point, don't see him changing yet.
4. What is up with the constant utterance of “Mort” every time someone calls our MC anything other than Mort or Mortimer after arriving at Death’s House and meeting Yasbell? Is there some significance to this or is it just rather annoying?! Lol!
Awww poor Mort. It's because they keep calling him Boy or You or whatever. He just wants them to refer to him by his name :) He's a person after all.
5. Mort, surprisingly, asked Death for an afternoon off. I think our dear Mort is growing up! He explains to Death that he wants to meet people for more than a few minutes. When he arrives in his own time and finds out where he is, he asks if he is near Sto Lat. He seems to have a plan when he says he wants a very fast horse. What do you think he intends? Will it work out like he plans?
I can see him getting lonely there. Not like Yasbel is spending time with him and she's the only one close to his age. The only other person there is Albert. I've already read on so can't comment on the next part.
DQs Day 2 - start: "Five minutes later, Mort was lost"end: "Sooner or later, everyone remembered the magic word (p98)
Q6 - Mort walked through the walls a few times but couldn't when he tried to get into the castle. Why do you think this happened?
I think he was thinking too hard about it.
Q7- What do you think of Ingneous Cutwell's character?
Umm, he's ok? Didn't really make much of an impression really. The doorknocker was more amusing.
Q8 - The Abbot has been reincarnated 53 times. The concept of reincarnation is an interesting one. If you were to be born again what life would you choose?
Something lazy, where I wouldn't have to worry about food or shelter or money, and lived a cush safe life. Trying to figure out what that would be...
Q9 - Death sent Mort to reap three souls. In light of how he performed do you think Mort was ready for the job?
I thought it was way too soon for him to go on his own. If Death accompanied him and oversaw it, then maybe. But to be completely on his own? Though I do admit he did better than I thought he would. Except for Keli of course.
Q10 - Mort found Ysabelle's handkerchief in the library. Why is she reading other people's life?
Probably because she's lonely. Not like there's all that much to do there, and no friends.
Day 3 Questions end: "Then Cutwell sighted carefully ... [spoiler removed]" (p151 / 58%)Q11. Do you think Mort is physically changing? When it says, "The gargoyle looked up into his face and suddenly felt like a very frightened doorknocker indeed, Mort's eyes glowed like crucibles, his expression was a furnace, his voice held enough enough to melt iron. It didn't know what he could do, but felt that it would prefer not to find out." - it seems these may be actual physical manifestations. With the photo Mort sees soon after with the wizard Cutwell, do you think that was originally Death in the photo before a transformation?
Yes, I believe based on that description and one other in this section that he is changing. I would assume he will take on more death like qualities. I don’t remember reading about a photo in this section so it’s probably just my copy and I will get to it in the next section.
Q12. What do you think about the plot point where Keli is dead, but is not? Do you think this was a clever twist of the author or do you find it a confusing jumble? How will this affect the story and will Death find out what actually happened and react?
I think Death will find out and it will affect the story will be TBD. At first I thought it to be a bit confusing but then isn’t this where Mort is also at? In limbo?
Q13. There suddenly seems to be sign that Death may be playing matchmaker of sorts with Mort and his 'daughter'. Are you surprised, and what do you think will happen with the relationship between him and Ysabel?
I was not surprised that he tried to play matchmaker. I mean his daughter is obviously very, very lonely. I don’t think that there will be a relationship outside of a friendship between the two.
Q14. Do you think that before Mort was chosen by Death, that he was a normal boy? Do you think he must have some wizard properties buried or are his "abilities" gathered from being Death's apprentice? What do you think about Mort attracting death's attention - what is so special about him?
Ah, but the chosen ones are never just normal boys!
Q15. Mort seems to be getting a bit homesick after his day off, and Death is changing his tune as well. What do you think about Death's new adventures to experience some human experiences, try to understand fun and how humans behave?
Maybe Mort is rubbing off on him a little bit and showing him what he has been missing all these years.
DQs Day 1 (from Beginning to "'I want' he said firmly 'a very fast horse.'" p52 / 19%):1. Mort is nothing if not determined. He refuses to give up on being a “prentice” until the last stoke of midnight. Then at the very last second, Death arrives for him. Do you think Mort was quick to take the apprenticeship perhaps from feeling humiliated at the days events or was it something that truly intrigued him? Would you have been willing to work for Death?
Mort is an interesting combination of lackadaisicalness, subtle ego, and quiet determination, so his reasons for taking the apprenticeship with Death are also a combination of those things. He appears to be going-with-the-flow, but there's a lot more to him on the inside. One of the things I like about the way the beginning of this book is written is that Pratchett is restrained in his depiction of Mort's inner life. We are intentionally left to puzzle it out for a while. It's a weird choice, but it works!
It doesn't matter if I'd be willing to work for Death because he'd NEVER ask me, LOL.
2. Death has a sarcastic tone during this first section. What do you think of his fawning over Mort to ensure he gets new clothes and food and Death eating with him like a regular guy? Is he up to something sinister or does he just want to make Mort comfortable?
I think Death is just a regular guy, ultimately! I didn't see his behavior as fawning over Mort at all, just a kind of casual onboarding into a new job. Death seems to see potential in Mort, and also seems to want to set Mort up with his daughter.
3. Mort may be a bit gangly and lost in his own head at times, but he seems to have a lot of compassion. Upon realizing that he was talking to Death, he asked him to spare his Dad. Later he tries to intervene and warn the King that he was about to be killed and finally on that same trip he wanted to tell the King’s daughter not to trust the Duke. What did you think of all that? Are these normal reactions to someone who is the apprentice to Death? Do you think it will continue as Mort sees more and more of Death’s duty?
I think Mort's reactions are normal (whatever normal can be in such a strange situation). I also think he will try to change fate, but won't necessarily be successful.
Although this is a reread for me, I don't actually remember if I'm right.
4. What is up with the constant utterance of “Mort” every time someone calls our MC anything other than Mort or Mortimer after arriving at Death’s House and meeting Yasbell? Is there some significance to this or is it just rather annoying?! Lol!
He feels -- insofar as Mort is at this time capable of identifying his own feelings -- as if he's being disrespected when people can't be bothered to use his name. TBH, I would probably do the same thing if someone persisted in calling me "girl" after being told my name multiple times.
5. Mort, surprisingly, asked Death for an afternoon off. I think our dear Mort is growing up! He explains to Death that he wants to meet people for more than a few minutes. When he arrives in his own time and finds out where he is, he asks if he is near Sto Lat. He seems to have a plan when he says he wants a very fast horse. What do you think he intends? Will it work out like he plans?
Even if this weren't a reread for me, I would definitely guess that he wants to go meet that princess! And that the afternoon will absolutely not work out like he plans.
DQs Day 2 (from "Five minutes later, Mort was lost." to "Sooner or later, everyone remembered the magic word." p98 / 37%):Q6 - Mort walked through the walls a few times but couldn't when he tried to get into the castle. Why do you think this happened?
He can't do it when he's trying too hard! Not thinking about it at all seems to be the trick!
Hmmm… I guess that explains why I can't walk through walls...
Q7- What do you think of Ingneous Cutwell's character?
Ah, humor at the expense of ridiculous wizards! He seems ridiculous, though we haven't gotten to know much about him.
Q8 - The Abbot has been reincarnated 53 times. The concept of reincarnation is an interesting one. If you were to be born again what life would you choose?
Hah, see, can't predict any baby's future, so choice can't really come into it in that way. Especially assuming we can't remember our past lives while we are alive. So while I would not be opposed to being reincarnated, I wouldn't want to choose the life.
Q9 - Death sent Mort to reap three souls. In light of how he performed do you think Mort was ready for the job?
Nope, not at all. He did not have enough information to do particularly well at the first two, and obviously he completely botched the third. And he did it on purpose due to his crush on the mark!
Q10 - Mort found Ysabelle's handkerchief in the library. Why is she reading other people's life?
I have no idea. Can't remember. Seems like she's jealous of something, perhaps.
DQs Day 2 - start: "Five minutes later, Mort was lost"end: "Sooner or later, everyone remembered the magic word (p98)
Q6 - Mort walked through the walls a few times but couldn't when he tried to get into the castle. Why do you think this happened?
It happened in an unconscious way. Instinctive. When he tried to do it purposefully he couldn't do. He had to become one with the magic.
Q7- What do you think of Ingneous Cutwell's character?
Have we met him yet? Can't recall him up to this point
Q8 - The Abbot has been reincarnated 53 times. The concept of reincarnation is an interesting one. If you were to be born again what life would you choose?
That's a tough one. I'm quite happy with the life I've got, you start messing around with fate and sh** happens!
Q9 - Death sent Mort to reap three souls. In light of how he performed do you think Mort was ready for the job?
It seems that Mort has done the cardinal sin. Interfering with the natural way of things by stopping Kelli's Death. Is Discworld going to unravel because of this.. We will see...
Q10 - Mort found Ysabelle's handkerchief in the library. Why is she reading other people's life?
So far we haven't got a very favourable viewing of Ysabell. She is condescending to Mort and obviously a sticky beak. She's up to something sneaking around.. We haven't heard her backstory yet, that will maybe clear a few things up.
Q6 - Mort walked through the walls a few times but couldn't when he tried to get into the castle. Why do you think this happened?Maybe a sign that he doesn't control the magic that allows him to walk through walls; maybe it is a gift from the universe (??)
Q7- What do you think of Ingneous Cutwell's character?
This is my 7th Discworld book. In every book I've read, the wizard is always a bumbler who pretends to have more control over magic than he does. (only male wizards so far in what I've read)
Q8 - The Abbot has been reincarnated 53 times. The concept of reincarnation is an interesting one. If you were to be born again what life would you choose?
My family is rather small, so I'd choose an upper middle class family that is rather large :)
Q9 - Death sent Mort to reap three souls. In light of how he performed do you think Mort was ready for the job?
Nope.
Q10 - Mort found Ysabelle's handkerchief in the library. Why is she reading other people's life?
She's human, right? With no friends her age. I think she was lonely.
Q11. Do you think Mort is physically changing? When it says, "The gargoyle looked up into his face and suddenly felt like a very frightened doorknocker indeed, Mort's eyes glowed like crucibles, his expression was a furnace, his voice held enough enough to melt iron. It didn't know what he could do, but felt that it would prefer not to find out." - it seems these may be actual physical manifestations. With the photo Mort sees soon after with the wizard Cutwell, do you think that was originally Death in the photo before a transformation?I think the position changes Mort, both physically and mentally, he just doesn't realize it yet.
Q12. What do you think about the plot point where Keli is dead, but is not? Do you think this was a clever twist of the author or do you find it a confusing jumble? How will this affect the story and will Death find out what actually happened and react?
I thought it was a clever twist. I think DEATH will be very upset when he finds out -- he keeps saying he's not fair, he just IS.
Q13. There suddenly seems to be sign that Death may be playing matchmaker of sorts with Mort and his 'daughter'. Are you surprised, and what do you think will happen with the relationship between him and Ysabel?
Maybe DEATH has noticed that his daughter is lonely, so he's imported a mate for her?
Q14. Do you think that before Mort was chosen by Death, that he was a normal boy? Do you think he must have some wizard properties buried or are his "abilities" gathered from being Death's apprentice? What do you think about Mort attracting death's attention - what is so special about him?
Yeah, I think Mort was a normal boy, but one without connections, which is why nobody picked him to be apprentice. When DEATH showed up, Mort was the only one still there -- no hassle about 'which one should I pick'.
Q15. Mort seems to be getting a bit homesick after his day off, and Death is changing his tune as well. What do you think about Death's new adventures to experience some human experiences, try to understand fun and how humans behave?
DEATH's experiences were fun to read about. Maybe DEATH was 'burned out' at his job??
Nothing But Reading Challenges
Books mentioned in this topic
Scythe (other topics)The Hidden Life of Trees: What They Feel, How They Communicate: Discoveries from a Secret World (other topics)
The Light Fantastic (other topics)
Mort (other topics)
1. Mort is nothing if not determined. He refuses to give up on being a “prentice” until the last stoke of midnight. Then at the very last second, Death arrives for him. Do you think Mort was quick to take the apprenticeship perhaps from feeling humiliated at the days events or was it something that truly intrigued him? Would you have been willing to work for Death?
I don't think it was a binary decision. I think he was determined to be available if anyone wanted him and, after reviewing the job, decided it would be interesting to accept it. If I were in Mort's shoes (living in the Discworld), I would want to work for Death. In the real, however, I don't think I'd want to.
2. Death has a sarcastic tone during this first section. What do you think of his fawning over Mort to ensure he gets new clothes and food and Death eating with him like a regular guy? Is he up to something sinister or does he just want to make Mort comfortable?
Death likes to set people up for success as far as I can tell. It was his way of providing for the apprentice. Also, I don't think Death has to worry about financial issues, so the idea of spending money is more abstract to him, less important.
3. Mort may be a bit gangly and lost in his own head at times, but he seems to have a lot of compassion. Upon realizing that he was talking to Death, he asked him to spare his Dad. Later he tries to intervene and warn the King that he was about to be killed and finally on that same trip he wanted to tell the King’s daughter not to trust the Duke. What did you think of all that? Are these normal reactions to someone who is the apprentice to Death? Do you think it will continue as Mort sees more and more of Death’s duty?
It feels like Mort wants to be a hero, or to leave some lasting impact. His mortality is tied, certainly, to those who deserve death or fairness.
4. What is up with the constant utterance of “Mort” every time someone calls our MC anything other than Mort or Mortimer after arriving at Death’s House and meeting Yasbell? Is there some significance to this or is it just rather annoying?! Lol!
It's Mort being his own person. I think it's funny because, you know, Mort also means death in French.
5. Mort, surprisingly, asked Death for an afternoon off. I think our dear Mort is growing up! He explains to Death that he wants to meet people for more than a few minutes. When he arrives in his own time and finds out where he is, he asks if he is near Sto Lat. He seems to have a plan when he says he wants a very fast horse. What do you think he intends? Will it work out like he plans?
Seems like he wants to visit the only other person who actually saw him. Maybe she'll even use his name, unlike everyone else that seems to tolerate him.