Introduction

The discussion over whether Robert Jordan made a mistake in his The Wheel of Time series by opening up numerous plot lines remains a subject of debate among both fans and critics. This intricate multilayered narrative, while praised for its rich world-building, character development, and thematic complexity, has also been criticized forits pacing issues and potential confusion. This article delves into the pros and cons of Jordan's plot structure, drawing from both scholarly and anecdotal evidence to provide a comprehensive analysis.

Pros of Multiple Plot Lines

World-Building: The intricate web of plot lines allows for extensive world-building. Jordan meticulously crafted a richly detailed universe with diverse cultures, histories, and political dynamics. This depth makes the world feel real and immersive for readers, enhancing their engagement with the story.

Character Development: The multitude of perspectives and story arcs provides depth to characters. Through various viewpoints and evolving plotlines, readers can explore different motivations, relationships, and character growth over time. This multi-faceted approach ensures that characters remain dynamic and relatable.

Themes and Complexity: Multiple plot lines allow for the exploration of complex themes such as fate, free will, and the nature of good and evil. The intertwining of different storylines creates a rich tapestry that enhances the narrative for readers who appreciate layered storytelling. This depth can be overwhelming but also incredibly rewarding.

Cons of Multiple Plot Lines

Pacing Issues: Many readers feel that the story sometimes progresses slowly due to the numerous subplots. Books such as The Path of Daggers and The Winter's Heart especially have received criticism for their pacing, with some fans feeling that they meander without significant plot advancement. This can be disorienting and frustrating for readers seeking a more brisk narrative.

Confusion: With a large cast of characters and intertwining storylines, some readers find it difficult to keep track of events and character arcs. This can lead to confusion or disengagement, particularly when complex subplots require significant attention to detail. The sheer scope of the series can overwhelm a reader's capacity to follow all the threads.

Satisfaction with Resolutions: The series' length and complexity can lead to mixed feelings about how certain plot lines and character arcs are resolved. Some readers feel that not all threads receive satisfactory conclusions, which can leave a sense of incompleteness or dissatisfaction. This is a significant drawback for those who value a satisfying closure in their narratives.

Speculation on the Series' Development

Although the exact motivations behind the series' structure are subject to much speculation, there are some interesting theories. One intriguing but unverified rumor suggests that Jordan was paid a massive advance before finishing the series. Upon submitting the manuscript for The Path of Thin Ice, intended as both the grand finale and the conclusion of the entire series, publishers insisted he rewrite it to extend over several books. This compelled Jordan to stretch out the narrative, potentially at the expense of pacing and narrative cohesion.

Another version of this rumor proposes that Jordan intentionally expanded the series to justify the substantial advance, adding elements that would take longer to resolve, thus necessitating more books. Despite the uncertainty of these claims, it is clear that Jordan had extensive notes and outlines for how the story would end, which allowed Brandon Sanderson to continue the series successfully after Jordan's passing.

Conclusion

Ultimately, whether the expansive plot lines were a mistake is subjective and depends on individual reader preferences. Some readers appreciate the depth and complexity, while others find the pacing and sprawling narrative frustrating. The series' dedicated fan base indicates that many readers value Jordan's storytelling approach, despite its challenges. Whether or not these theories hold water, they add an intriguing layer to the discussion and highlight the dual-edged nature of Jordan's narrative choices in The Wheel of Time.