I read the subject of this post, and the first thing I thought, was BLASPHEMY! Then I read the body of the message and was reassured.

Here, then, is my take on the subject...

I think someone already mentioned that her books give the feel of a complete world, waiting in the wings. I agree totally, and that, I think, is what I like most about the Lady's works.

I think of it as windows. If you look out the window of your house, you can only see a limited view, but you never doubt that there is a wider world just beyond the frame. Her books are windows looking out on other worlds. You know that there are places, events, and beings beyond where the characters are now. Mostly through hints and casual mentions of these things in thought and conversation.

Likewise, that wider world has, in the past and the present, affected the characters you can see through the glass in ways that seem totally logical and beliveable. Sometimes you are granted a glimpse of the past through the characters' memories and conversations, sometimes not. But you know it is there.

The completeness of her worlds draw me in and keep me there. This is the main reason I read and re-read her books dozens of times over. These are the characteristics of Norton stories that make her my favorite author.

Now if I can just find the doors that open onto those worlds...

Paul Baughman