The conclusion of George R.R. Martin’s A Storm of Swords, the third volume in the sprawling A Song of Ice and Fire saga, represents one of the most debated moments in modern fantasy literature. While the television series concluded its narrative arc years ago, the source material remains unfinished, leaving the final fates of characters like Jon Snow, Daenerys Targaryen, and Tyrion Lannister suspended in a state of unresolved tension for readers.
The State of the Series: A Work in Progress
It is critical to establish context when discussing the ending of the last published book, as the saga itself remains incomplete. Martin has confirmed that the series will likely require two more volumes, The Winds of Winter and A Dream of Spring, to reach its intended conclusion. Therefore, the ending of A Storm of Swords serves as a major midpoint cliffhanger rather than a final resolution, establishing the geopolitical and personal landscapes that the remaining books will have to address.
Major Character Arcs at the End of Book Three
By the close of A Storm of Swords, the political map of Westeros is shattered. The Starks are presumed extinct, with Bran and Rickon missing, and Robb Stark is dead following the Red Wedding. Daenerys Targaryen has solidified her power in Meereen, ruling over a growing empire, while Jon Snow has been elected Lord Commander of the Night’s Watch, positioning the narrative for a confrontation with the supernatural threat beyond the Wall.
The fates of key players
Jon Snow: Ascends to the leadership of the Night’s Watch, isolated between the politics of the South and the imminent threat of the White Walkers.
Daenerys Targaryen: Secures her rule in Essos, dealing with the complexities of governing a city and preparing for an eventual crossing of the Narrow Sea.
Tyrion Lannister: Fleeing imprisonment after being falsely accused of murder, his journey leads him toward a potential meeting with Daenerys.
The North Remembers: Bran’s Vision
One of the most significant mystical elements of the book’s conclusion is Bran Stark’s journey beyond the Wall. Through the weirwood network, he experiences a vision that reveals the true nature of Jon Snow’s parentage. This scene is vital for the overarching mythology, as it confirms that Jon is the son of Lyanna Stark and Rhaegar Targaryen, making him a key figure in the Targaryen restoration prophecy, regardless of his Stark upbringing.
The Winds of Winter: What to Expect Next
Martin has outlined major events that will occur in the subsequent books, providing a roadmap for the conclusion. The Winds of Winter is expected to resolve the storylines in Meereen, potentially bringing Daenerys back to Westeros, while A Dream of Spring will likely see the final convergence of Jon, Daenerys, and the threat of the White Walkers. The ending of the series will likely focus on the balance between the human conflicts for the Iron Throne and the existential threat posed by the Long Night.
The Gap Between Mediums
Fans accustomed to the televised conclusion may find the literary ending frustrating due to its lack of closure. The books and the show diverged significantly after Season 4, and Martin’s intricate political machinations and slow-burn character studies require a medium that allows for deep introspection, something the visual medium of television often compresses. The book ending thrives on suspense and political intrigue, whereas the show prioritized dramatic spectacle.
