"The Wheel of Time turns, and Ages come and pass, leaving memories that become legend. Legend fades to myth, and even myth is long forgotten when the Age that gave it birth comes again. In one Age, called the Third Age by some, an Age yet to come, an Age long past, a wind rose.... The wind was not the beginning. There are neither beginnings nor endings to the turning of the Wheel of time. But it was a beginning."
A friend of mine told me about The Wheel of Time series back in the early to mid 90's, so it was at that time that I decided to pick up the first book - The Eye of the World. I don't remember when and where exactly I first cracked open the cover and decided to read it, but what I will never forget was the feeling I had that I was reading the start of something amazing. I remember reading those words above, which was basically the introduction to the series, and was hooked for all intents and purposes.
And now, Mr. Jordan has passed away, one book away from finishing the series (which is up to 11 books currently). Mr. Jordan provided hours upon hours of enjoyment and escapism for me the last decade or so and this really is sad news. I remember going to a book signing of his at the Border's on what used to be The World Trade Center when Winter's Heart (the 9th book in the series) came out in 2000. And even though I waited in line for about 2, 3 hours, I didn't want to bother him by peppering him with questions about when the next book was coming out, when the series was ending, etc. When it was my turn to get my book signed, I just smiled and thanked him for all the hard work he's put in, he said thank you for the support and that was enough and I headed home. I saw pictures which he himself posted while he was being treated for the rare blood disease which he ultimately died from, and he did not look anything like the man I had seen in person in 2000. Really sad, in a lot of ways.
Of course, as tragic as this is, the logical question that arises from this is: will the last book ever be finished?? And let's be honest, this is every geek's worst nightmare - not only did he die but he died while writing the last book (Imagine if JK Rowlings died before finishing Potter). However, according to wotmania, there is a good chance it might be. But that shows you just how much he cared for his readers; to have been at Death's door and still trying to finish the book by hook or by crook.
Once again, thank you Robert Jordan, or as those who knew you best probably called you, James Oliver Rigney, Jr. To borrow a phrase from The Wheel of Time books: "The Light shine on you, and the Creator shelter you. The last embrace of the mother welcome you home."
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