I actually agree with you, I just felt a little let down, I thought it could have been even better than it was. I still rate it highly, but hard to justify its place on the sci-fi shed ladder above where it finally ended. Where would you have ranked it?
I have to agree with you. This is one of those books that I go back and read every decade, or so. And, yes, it has faded in my memory so I have the pleasure of reading it again for the first time.
Very short novel indeed! I've only previously heard of Fritz Leiber's sword and scorcery stuff, had no idea he'd won the Hugo for this one. Interesting premise despite the flaws. Might have to get a copy! Cheers for the review Pete!
I think part of your problem with 'The Big Time' is a matter of perspective. You were expecting an adventure story from Fritz Leiber, the teller of tall tales. What you got was a story from Fritz Leiber, the actor. I came across a review that explained that the story is a one-act play. You have a limited number of characters trapped in a single stage set who interact with each other in very subtle, and often confrontational, ways. If you approach it that way, you find yourself looking in awe at what Leiber accomplished. At least, that was the way it was for me. Also, let it sit for a few years and come back to it. It tops the list for re-readability.
Very good point Paul, i should revisit this book again in a couple of years. I did get that 'one-act play' feel to it. My mind wondered a few times to the teleplay "12 Angry Men" i definitely see that 'play/actor' in the novel. Very nice food for thought, thank you Paul, much appreciated.
This is my least favorite of the Hugo and nebula winners that I've read so far It seems much more like a stage play than a novel With all the action taking place off stage And lots of expository dialogue.
@@bookishmartinthat's a similar comment that Paul, a few comments below made. Perhaps that was the point Fritz was driving at, and maybe if it was read that way, one may appreciate it more. 🤔
This is a great novel but I seem to be in the minority from other contemporary opinions I’ve heard. What a showman and stylist Leiber was.
I actually agree with you, I just felt a little let down, I thought it could have been even better than it was. I still rate it highly, but hard to justify its place on the sci-fi shed ladder above where it finally ended. Where would you have ranked it?
I have to agree with you. This is one of those books that I go back and read every decade, or so. And, yes, it has faded in my memory so I have the pleasure of reading it again for the first time.
You've inspired me to reread it with that actor/play lens, maybe it would have ranked a little higher with that in mind. :)
Very short novel indeed! I've only previously heard of Fritz Leiber's sword and scorcery stuff, had no idea he'd won the Hugo for this one. Interesting premise despite the flaws. Might have to get a copy! Cheers for the review Pete!
My pleasure mate, it's definitely worth the read.
@@thesci-fished Turned out I'd already watched this and forgotten to add it to my books list! hahaha! Cheers mate!
I think part of your problem with 'The Big Time' is a matter of perspective. You were expecting an adventure story from Fritz Leiber, the teller of tall tales. What you got was a story from Fritz Leiber, the actor. I came across a review that explained that the story is a one-act play. You have a limited number of characters trapped in a single stage set who interact with each other in very subtle, and often confrontational, ways. If you approach it that way, you find yourself looking in awe at what Leiber accomplished. At least, that was the way it was for me. Also, let it sit for a few years and come back to it. It tops the list for re-readability.
Very good point Paul, i should revisit this book again in a couple of years. I did get that 'one-act play' feel to it. My mind wondered a few times to the teleplay "12 Angry Men" i definitely see that 'play/actor' in the novel. Very nice food for thought, thank you Paul, much appreciated.
This is my least favorite of the Hugo and nebula winners that I've read so far It seems much more like a stage play than a novel With all the action taking place off stage And lots of expository dialogue.
@@bookishmartinthat's a similar comment that Paul, a few comments below made. Perhaps that was the point Fritz was driving at, and maybe if it was read that way, one may appreciate it more. 🤔