Summary
In “Going Postal”, Terry Pratchett introduces us to Moist von Lipwig, a skilled con artist who finds himself at the end of his rope – literally. Faced with execution for his crimes, Moist is offered an unusual second chance by the cunning Lord Vetinari, ruler of Ankh-Morpork. His options? Take over as Postmaster of the city’s defunct Postal Service or take a long walk off a short pier.
Moist reluctantly accepts the position and is thrust into a world of long-forgotten letters, decaying infrastructure, and two eccentric postal workers: the elderly Junior Postman Tolliver Groat and his pin-obsessed assistant, Stanley Howler. As Moist begins to revitalise the Post Office, he uncovers a series of mysterious deaths involving his predecessors and finds himself competing against the Grand Trunk Company, operators of the “clacks” – a network of semaphore towers that have largely replaced traditional mail.
Employing his conman skills for good, Moist introduces innovations like postage stamps and express delivery services. He also hires golems as postal workers, much to the delight of chain-smoking golem rights activist Adora Belle Dearheart, with whom Moist begins a prickly romance.
As Moist’s efforts breathe new life into the postal service, he draws the ire of Reacher Gilt, the unscrupulous chairman of the Grand Trunk Company. Gilt, determined to maintain his monopoly, employs increasingly underhanded tactics, including attempted murder, to thwart Moist’s progress.
The rivalry between the Post Office and the clacks intensifies, culminating in an audacious wager: Moist bets he can deliver a message to a distant city faster than the clacks system. This sets the stage for a thrilling climax involving a group of clacks-hackers known as “The Smoking Gnu”, a daring plan to expose Gilt’s corruption, and a race against time to save both the Post Office and the clacks system from ruin.
Throughout his journey, Moist grapples with his conscience as he begins to understand the real-world consequences of his past cons. His character arc sees him transform from a self-serving trickster to a man willing to risk everything for the greater good.
“Going Postal” is a satirical exploration of the clash between tradition and progress, the corrupting influence of unchecked capitalism, and the power of second chances. Pratchett’s trademark wit and wordplay are on full display as he weaves a tale that is both hilarious and poignant, filled with unforgettable characters and biting social commentary.
Key Themes:
- Redemption and personal growth
- The tension between tradition and technological progress
- Corruption and corporate greed
- The importance of effective communication
- The power of belief and confidence in shaping reality
Character Details
Moist von Lipwig
Moist is the protagonist of “Going Postal”, a charismatic and quick-witted con artist turned reluctant civil servant. Forced into the role of Postmaster General by Lord Vetinari, Moist initially sees the job as another con to be played. However, as he becomes invested in reviving the Post Office, he begins to find a sense of purpose and redemption. Moist’s greatest strengths are his creativity, adaptability, and ability to inspire others. He’s a master of disguise and misdirection, skills he puts to use in more legitimate ways as the story progresses. Despite his criminal past, Moist develops a conscience and a genuine desire to do good, though he never quite loses his roguish edge.
Adora Belle Dearheart
Adora Belle is a fierce, intelligent, and perpetually irritated young woman who works for the Golem Trust. She’s known for her acerbic wit, chain-smoking habit, and deadly stiletto heels. Adora Belle becomes Moist’s love interest, though she initially resists his charms due to her distrust of smooth-talking men. Her family’s history with the Grand Trunk Company gives her a personal stake in Moist’s rivalry with Reacher Gilt. Beneath her prickly exterior, Adora Belle is deeply compassionate, particularly towards golems, and fiercely loyal to those she cares about.
Reacher Gilt
The primary antagonist of the novel, Reacher Gilt is the corrupt chairman of the Grand Trunk Company. A flamboyant figure who affects the dress and mannerisms of a pirate, Gilt is every bit as much of a con artist as Moist, but without any of the moral growth. He’s ruthless, greedy, and willing to go to any lengths to maintain his monopoly over the clacks system. Gilt represents the worst excesses of unfettered capitalism and serves as a dark mirror to Moist, showing what he might have become without redemption.
Lord Havelock Vetinari
The Patrician of Ankh-Morpork, Vetinari is a master manipulator who runs the city with ruthless efficiency. It’s Vetinari who gives Moist his second chance, seeing in him the potential to solve the city’s postal problems. Vetinari is always several steps ahead of everyone else, using his intellect and political acumen to maintain order in the chaotic city. His dry wit and calm demeanour mask a mind that’s constantly working to keep Ankh-Morpork running smoothly.
Mr Pump
A golem assigned to be Moist’s parole officer, Mr Pump is relentless in his duty. Made of clay and brought to life by sacred words in his head, Mr Pump is incredibly strong, tireless, and literally unable to stop pursuing Moist should he try to escape. Despite his intimidating presence, Mr Pump develops a sort of friendship with Moist and proves to be a loyal ally.
Stanley Howler
The youngest member of the Post Office staff, Stanley is obsessed with pins and has a tendency towards obsessive behaviour. Initially wary of change, Stanley becomes one of Moist’s most enthusiastic supporters as the Post Office is revitalised. His knowledge of pins proves unexpectedly useful in the creation of postage stamps.
Tolliver Groat
The elderly Junior Postman, Groat has worked at the Post Office for decades, stubbornly keeping it running (after a fashion) even when it was all but abandoned. He’s set in his ways and distrustful of change, but gradually comes to support Moist’s innovations. Groat is known for his unusual homemade medicines and his layers of old uniforms that he never removes.
Reader Fit
“Going Postal” would appeal to readers who enjoy:
- Satirical fantasy with a sharp wit and social commentary
- Character-driven stories about redemption and personal growth
- Explorations of the impact of technological change on society
- Humorous takes on bureaucracy and civil service
- Clever wordplay and puns
- Stories that blend comedy with deeper philosophical themes
Fans of Terry Pratchett’s Discworld series will find this a worthy addition, while newcomers can enjoy it as a standalone novel. It’s particularly well-suited for readers who appreciate British humour and those interested in postal history or the early days of telecommunications.
Quick Facts
- Genre: Comic Fantasy
- Publication Year: 2004
- Reading Time Estimate: 8-10 hours
- Notable Awards: Nominated for the Nebula Award for Best Novel
Related Books
- “Making Money” by Terry Pratchett (the sequel to “Going Postal”)
- “The Truth” by Terry Pratchett (another Discworld novel dealing with technological change in Ankh-Morpork)
- “Good Omens” by Terry Pratchett and Neil Gaiman (for more of Pratchett’s satirical style)
