o.O "..."
When Oliver Stone released his bio-epic Alexander some years ago, I was centrally seated at the cinema on the opening day. Unfortunately, I left wondering how I could regain the 3 hours of my life I had just lost, and to be frank, some of hard earned quid I had spent at the new super-screen venue. Therefore, it might delight Mr. Pressfield to know that in my ignorance, I not only picked up this book, but voted in favour of it for a monthly group read. Had I had any knowledge that his book about the young Macedonian ruler was the inspiration behind the mediocre film, I would have run away, dramatically waving my arms in the air as though being chased by a grizzly. It is strictly due to this oblivion that I am now well acquainted with Mr. Pressfield's writing and continue to enjoy his works.
Although I was prejudiced by Mr. Stone's work, and found myself visualising some of the scenes whilst reading this novel, the story is not entirely the same. First of all, it is not a narration by Ptolemy, rather it is Alexander presenting himself (slightly), and relationships with his family, loves and cohorts. Mostly, this is a fiction about the some of his biggest battles, how they were achieved, the results and Alexander's desire for greatness.
Pressfield's writing draws the reader in and keeps him/her there. While this might not appeal to those who wish to delve deeply into Alexander's as an individual, it does serve well to understand this author's thoughts on what Alexander's expectations were for not only those around him, but those he'd set for himself.
As for Steven Pressfield; I've already mentioned I'm all for reading more (and have), but he should be rewarded for changing my mind about reading a book after watching a film. Though, I do reserve the right to change my mind.
Review originally appeared on the now defunct Paternoster Row Legacy blog.
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