io9's talk with Sapkowski
Source: io9 Q: Beth Elderkin A: Andrzej Sapkowski
When you were first approached about doing a show adaptation of The Witcherbooks, how did you feel about it? Did you have any reservations?
I must confess I was reluctant at first. I have been approached before by many people, mostly far from being serious. So I practically lost hope and was difficult to persuade when suddenly another offer appeared. But this specific offer was businesslike and the people behind it sympathetic. I had every reason to react positively.
How involved were you in the production process?
Not very much, on my own request.
Was there anything you insisted be included or fought for?
For the record: I strongly believe in the freedom of an artist and his artistic expression. I do not interfere and do not impose my views on other artists. I do not insist on anything and do not fight for anything. I advise. When necessary. And asked for.
Were there any creative changes the show made that you agreed with, or even changed your view of your work?
It was inevitable. The process of transforming words into pictures cannot be done without some losses. But I’d rather keep the details to myself.
What surprised you the most about the production process?
A lot of things. Even though I am not so easily surprised.
So, when I see some visualization of my work — be it comics, games or movies — sometimes I am really surprised. Mostly pleasantly.
What do you think translated best to screen in the show adaptation?
My name appears in the credits. I cannot praise the show. It wouldn’t be decent.
What do you feel didn’t successfully translate to screen in the show adaptation?
I would have to be an idiot to say. My name appears in the credits.
How would you compare The Witcher show to the video games? What are the advantages and disadvantages of each medium?
Anyway, in my opinion TV series and video games — any of them — cannot be compared. They are too different in approach, making — and objective. You cannot compare spaghetti carbonara with a bicycle. Even though both have advantages and disadvantages.
What was your reaction to learning your books were getting 500,000 reprints after the release of the Netflix show?
How do you expect I answer this question? That I despaired? Shed tears? Considered suicide? No sir. My feelings were rather obvious and not excessively complex.
The Witcher’s popularity has seen a resurgence since the show, both with the books and the video games. Why do you feel that is?
I am tempted to say that this happened because of the author’s exceptional talent, but I won’t do that, I am too modest. I’ll answer your question with the Latin proverb: habent sua fata libelli, books have their own destinies.
For fans of the show who haven’t read your book series before, what are you hoping they get out of reading it for the first time?
Let them convince themselves. So wait no longer, guys and gals. Read the books.
What are you most looking forward to with the future of The Witchershow, which has already been renewed for season two?
Any additional comments?
None whatsoever. Thank you.