George R.R. Martin's Possible Adaptations of RLJ in the Books

As fans of George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series eagerly await the continuation of the story, theories and speculations about the upcoming books have filled the internet space. A particularly intriguing one is the idea of changing the narrative to incorporate RLJ (Red LearJon Snow) in the novels rather than the show. This speculation raises several interesting questions about how Martin might approach this integral plot point differently from his decision to keep it largely consistent with the TV adaptation.

MLM and the Delayed Release

Many fans have a pet theory that Martin himself is responsible for the significant lag in the release of the new books. The thought process revolves around the overwhelming pressure of fitting the previously written books with a new ending that aligns with RLJ. Given that he may have to reconstruct a substantial portion of the narrative, this explains the prolonged period of silence and the speculative anticipation among devoted fans.

The Breakthrough in Sales and Controversy

According to this theory, if Martin indeed decides to release a book that incorporates RLJ, the market response could be explosive. Unlike the initial release of the series, which was largely driven by a core fan base, the surprise integration of RLJ into the books could attract a broader audience, including fans who have stuck to watching the show. This development would not only resuscitate a sense of control over the characters that Martin had lost due to the faster pace of the TV production, but it could also trigger a massive interest and consequently, a significant commercial success.

Restoring Control and Creating a Sensation

The decision to integrate RLJ into the books would fundamentally alter the narrative trajectory of characters and storylines, offering a fresh perspective on the series. By using the books to delve into a more intricate and complex storyline, Martin could craft a storyline that fans could explore in-depth, reading and re-reading to uncover new layers of depth and meaning. This would create a genuine sensation, similar to the early days of the series, and position Martin as a storyteller known not just for creating a compelling narrative, but for consistently evolving and enriching it.

Different Approaches to Difficult Choices

Some of the ways in which Martin might incorporate RLJ into the books differ significantly from how it is portrayed in the show. For instance, instead of killing off Jon Snow, as suggested in one popular theory, he might employ a more nuanced approach where Jon Snow is permanently injured or altered in some critical way. This would allow for a quiet exit from the Iron Throne without resorting to a dramatic death scene, while still altering the predictable path of the storyline. Another potential strategy could involve revealing RLJ through gradual revelations, maintaining suspense and intrigue throughout the series.

Potential Outcomes and Fan Engagement

For the next book, where RLJ is inevitable if Martin decides to make the change, fans could anticipate a different storyline. The inclusion of RLJ would realistically prompt readers to foresee a different outcome and perhaps engage more deeply with the narrative, knowing that the ending is yet to be determined. This would once again position fans as active participants in the ongoing saga, rather than passive consumers.

In conclusion, the integration of RLJ in the books represents a significant departure from the show’s portrayal. It would offer Martin a unique opportunity to re-imagine a beloved series, retell some of its key narratives, and engage with his fans in new and exciting ways. This could potentially lead to a reinvigoration of the series and solidify Martin's status as one of the most influential authors in contemporary fantasy literature.