Jason Waltz’s Reviews > Kull: Exile of Atlantis > Status Update

And now for my absolute favorite Kull story!

"Swords of the Purple Kingdom" is eloquently told, a rather beautifully written sordid tale. Scene is set wonderfully; atmosphere, persons, attitudes, thrilling undercurrents artfully rendered by Howard to really put us there. Sensory touches and strong description really brings the dark and desperate night alive. One of the best Kull tales. Followed by an interesting poem pitting Kull against the age before man.

"By this Axe I Rule" is probably the best Kull story by far, though "Kings of the Night" is my favorite. Regardless, this is Kull's story, his moment, before he's merely a shadow most often saved by others. I can not only hear his roar but feel it in my bones when he declares, "I am the law!" Though I guess I do hear it in Sly's voice ;)

I'm learning I've not read as much Kull as I had thought. "The Screaming Skull of Silence" is such a clever story! Very Dunsanian, very out of this world, and very, very Kull. I get a kick out of how Howard plays Kull on both sides of the royal coin, as the anti-king yet filled with many recognized kingly traits, desirable and not. He is an obstinate man whose obstinance in this instance saved mankind.

When one begins reading "The Cat and the Skull," one thinks 'What the hell?!' What kind of story is Howard writing here? Then as one continues reading, one groans at the idea of another existential exploration like "The Mirrors." Then one reaches the Forbidden Lake and realizes all is well in the land of bloody subterfuge and dangerous sorcery. And one ends content with this quite fun story.

The 'Untitled Draft' featuring Kull's ride of vengeance is spectacular. I'd never read it before, quite the delightful tale. Some really well-written lines and terrific descriptions.

Great sentence:
'"You do not understand, Kull," said Tu with the patience one must accord a barbarian who happens to be a king, besides.' 😆

"The Mirrors of Tuzun Thune" has always never quite thrilled me. Kull is listless, has lost all and any passion. Boo-hoo. Brule yet again saves the day and the king. Several curious and entertaining statements/concepts/questions posed, but not really much of a story.

I reread "The Shadow Kingdom," "Exiles," and the introduction from Tompkins. I like his foreword, the information and analysis there is awesome. I've always liked "Exiles" as a compelling intro to the character of Kull. I appreciate the creation of Kull and Brule, the wonder evoked of what's looming (behind and ahead), but I've always found this story difficult to remain engaged. frankly, Brule gives us Kull.