Interesting Times - Discworld Book 17

Book Overview

In Interesting Times, Rincewind finds himself unexpectedly summoned to the distant Counterweight Continent—a mysterious, politically tumultuous land reminiscent of ancient China. Once again unwillingly thrust into adventure, Rincewind becomes embroiled in a brewing revolution, caught between oppressive ruling powers and the idealistic rebellion of the "Red Army," a ragtag group inspired by a questionable prophecy involving "The Great Wizard."

The novel reunites Rincewind with Twoflower, now an older, somewhat disillusioned revolutionary intellectual, whose innocent tourism in earlier adventures has matured into a more cynical understanding of politics and society. Together, they navigate absurd schemes, dangerous politics, and violent uprisings. Alongside their adventures, Cohen the Barbarian returns, leading a group of aging heroes in one final, grand quest, reflecting on aging, heroism, and the struggle to remain relevant in changing times.

Thematically, Interesting Times satirizes revolution, authoritarianism, and the idealization of political upheaval, highlighting the absurdity and human cost often hidden beneath idealistic rhetoric. Pratchett humorously yet sharply critiques both oppressive regimes and naïve idealism, emphasizing the complicated reality behind political slogans and grand historical movements. The title itself—drawn from the famous "curse" of living in interesting times—reflects the novel’s underlying skepticism toward simplistic political solutions.

As part of the Rincewind-focused sub-series, the novel reinforces Rincewind’s character as an ironic anti-hero, whose cowardice and pragmatism ironically expose the hypocrisy and absurdity inherent in political extremism and ideological fervor. It also connects to broader Discworld themes exploring cultural stereotypes, misconceptions, and international relations, laying groundwork for further global explorations such as The Last Continent and Jingo, highlighting Pratchett’s skill at blending satirical humor with meaningful social critique.