Summary
The Power that Preserves is the final instalment of Stephen R. Donaldson’s first Chronicles of Thomas Covenant trilogy. The story begins with Thomas Covenant back in his own world, devastated by the loss of Elena and struggling with the paradox of his experiences in the Land. His leprosy has become active again due to neglect, and he finds himself summoned back to the Land by High Lord Mhoram.
Seven years have passed in the Land since the Illearth War, and Lord Foul is preparing for his final assault. The Land is in dire straits: it’s cast into perpetual winter, the Lords have lost their Bloodguard defenders, and Lord Foul has rebuilt his army under the command of the Giant-Raver Satansfist, besieging the Lords’ mountain fortress of Revelstone.
Covenant initially resists the summons to save a snake-bitten girl in his world. After ensuring her safety, he accepts another summoning but arrives at Kevin’s Watch instead of Revelstone. He encounters old allies like Bannor and the Ramen, and confronts Elena’s ghost, now wielding the Staff of Law for evil. In a pivotal moment, Covenant uses his white gold ring to dismiss Elena’s ghost, resulting in the Staff of Law’s destruction.
As Covenant journeys towards Lord Foul’s stronghold, he faces numerous physical and spiritual challenges. He confronts his past sins, particularly the rape of Lena, which strengthens his resolve. Meanwhile, Lord Mhoram breaks the siege of Revelstone and defeats Satansfist.
The climax of the story sees Covenant confronting Lord Foul in a final battle. Covenant realises that his self-knowledge and Unbelief are the key to defeating Foul, understanding Mhoram’s cryptic message that he “is the white gold”. In a metaphysical confrontation, Covenant defeats Foul, seemingly at the cost of his own life.
In the aftermath, Covenant finds himself in a state between existence and non-existence, where he encounters the Creator. The Creator offers Covenant a choice: to remain in the Land in full health or return to his own world. Covenant chooses to return, awakening in a hospital bed, still afflicted with leprosy but content in the knowledge that he didn’t fail the Land.
Key themes:
- Redemption and personal growth
- The power of belief and unbelief
- Responsibility and sacrifice
- The nature of reality and fantasy
- Confronting one’s past and inner demons
Character Details
Thomas Covenant
Thomas Covenant is the protagonist and anti-hero of the series. A writer and leper in the real world, he is summoned to the Land as its reluctant saviour. Initially cynical and disbelieving, Covenant struggles with the reality of the Land and his role within it. His journey is one of personal growth and redemption, as he grapples with the consequences of his actions, particularly the rape of Lena in the first book. Covenant’s white gold wedding ring grants him access to powerful wild magic, which he must learn to control and use responsibly. His ‘unbelief’ becomes a crucial element in his confrontation with Lord Foul.
Lord Foul
The primary antagonist of the series, Lord Foul is a powerful, malevolent entity bent on destroying the Land. Also known as “the Despiser,” he manipulates events and people to further his destructive goals. Lord Foul’s ultimate aim is to break the Arch of Time, which would allow him to escape the confines of the Land’s universe. His confrontation with Covenant forms the climax of the story.
High Lord Mhoram
Mhoram is a wise and powerful Lord, who becomes the leader of the Council of Lords in Revelstone. He summons Covenant back to the Land in its hour of need. Mhoram plays a crucial role in defending Revelstone against Lord Foul’s forces and provides key insights that help Covenant in his final confrontation with the Despiser.
Saltheart Foamfollower
Saltheart Foamfollower is a Giant and one of Covenant’s closest allies in the Land. Known for his jovial nature and unwavering loyalty, Foamfollower accompanies Covenant on his final journey to confront Lord Foul. His friendship and support are instrumental in helping Covenant overcome his doubts and face his destiny.
Elena
Elena, once a High Lord and Covenant’s daughter from his first visit to the Land, appears in this book as a tormented spirit enslaved by Lord Foul. Wielding the Staff of Law for evil purposes, she becomes a significant obstacle that Covenant must overcome, both physically and emotionally.
Bannor
Bannor is a former member of the Bloodguard, the immortal protectors of the Lords. In this book, he has aged due to the breaking of the Bloodguard’s Vow. Bannor joins Covenant for part of his journey, providing guidance and support before choosing to remain behind.
Reader Fit
The Power that Preserves would appeal to readers who enjoy complex, philosophical fantasy that challenges traditional genre conventions. Fans of morally ambiguous protagonists and stories that blur the lines between reality and fantasy will find much to appreciate.
The book is particularly suited for those who enjoy exploring themes of redemption, personal growth, and the nature of belief. Readers who have followed Thomas Covenant’s journey through the first two books will find this a satisfying and thought-provoking conclusion to the trilogy.
Quick Facts
- Genre: Epic Fantasy
- Publication Year: 1977
- Reading Time Estimate: Approximately 15-20 hours
- Notable Awards: None specifically mentioned for this book, but the series is considered a classic of the fantasy genre.
Related Books
- “The Wounded Land” by Stephen R. Donaldson (the first book of the Second Chronicles of Thomas Covenant)
- “The Sword of Shannara” by Terry Brooks
- “The Magicians” by Lev Grossman
Buy the Book
Dive into the epic conclusion of Thomas Covenant’s first journey through the Land. Experience a fantasy that challenges conventions and explores deep philosophical themes. Don’t miss this opportunity to witness Covenant’s transformation from a reluctant anti-hero to the Land’s unlikely saviour. Get your copy of “The Power that Preserves” today and discover why this trilogy has captivated readers for decades!
