The Ambiguous Endings of The Witcher Series: A Reader’s Interpretation

Hello there! I just finished the last book of the Witcher saga and would like an opinion. I think you are the best option to answer my question: What do you think is the ending of the books? How do you think it continues?

The Endings Left for Interpretation

The ending of The Witcher saga was left ambiguous for a reason. Andrzej Sapkowski intended to leave room for interpretation, allowing readers to form their own conclusions based on the hints and details he provided in the books. If you believe that Geralt and Yennefer live a peaceful and happy life on a hidden island somewhere, you are not alone in this interpretation.

Throughout the saga, Sapkowski provided enough evidence to support the idea that Geralt and Yennefer may indeed have survived. On the other hand, he also left evidence to suggest that they could be deceased. This intentional ambiguity encouraged readers to analyze the character arcs, prophecies, and other minor details of the story more deeply. In my personal view, I believe that Geralt and Yennefer did survive the riot with Ciri, being transported to another dimension or state of existence, where they continued to live a fulfilling life. However, it is unlikely that they would return to the continent or to their friends in the human world. So, in a sense, they are "dead," but the saga ends, and the legend of Ciri, Yennefer, and Geralt continues as a tale of enduring myth and magic.

Sapkowski's References to Arthurian Legends

It has been noted that Sapkowski draws heavily from Arthurian legends, particularly the story of King Arthur, who, mortally wounded, was transported to the Isle of Avalon to recover. The idea of a hero's journey to a liminal state, where he awaits a call to return, aligns well with the end of Lady of the Lake. In my interpretation, Sapkowski left a silver lining, suggesting that Geralt and Yennefer might find a similar fate, recover, and one day return to reclaim their destiny.

The Epilogue and Forking Paths

The epilogue of "Seasons of Storms," published four years after the main saga, was written to address the ongoing discussions about the fate of Geralt and Yennefer. It introduces a new story about a witcher named Nimue, who helps Ciri to portal back in time to the castle of Stygga. This narrative aligns well with the concept of "something ends, something begins," and the idea of the Uroboros, representing cyclic continuance and regeneration.

It is significant that "Seasons of Storms" was published 14 years after Lady of the Lake. It suggests that Sapkowski was perhaps tired of the endless debates surrounding the fate of his protagonists, and he wanted to provide a definitive, if ambiguous, resolution. This fits with the author's sneaky yet constructive approach to storytelling, where the finality of the story is mingled with open-ended possibilities.

Further Reading and Discussion

For further insights into the interpretation of The Witcher's endings, it's worth watching this YouTube video, where Sapkowski discusses Geralt's fate with CD Projekt Red staff members. This can provide additional perspectives on the intricate and layered storytelling of the Witcher series.

Remember, the beauty of The Witcher saga lies in its ambiguity and the freedom it grants to readers to form their own conclusions. Whether you believe Geralt and Yennefer live on, returned to their realm, or are forever gone, the essence of their journey and the impact they have had on the world of the Witcher remains a testament to Sapkowski's masterful storytelling.