The Destroyer is a 1970 science fiction novel by American writer Michael Moorcock. It was first published in paperback by Ace Books and reprinted in 1973 by DAW Books. The novel is part of Moorcock’s long-running Elric of Melniboné series, although it can be read independently.
The novel is set in a distant future on the planet Tanelorn, a once-thriving world that has now fallen into ruin. The planet is ruled by the Eternal Champion, Elric of Melniboné, a melancholic and introspective warrior who is cursed by the sword Stormbringer.
One day, Elric is approached by a group of refugees who tell him that a mysterious Destroyer is approaching Tanelorn. The Destroyer is a powerful and malevolent entity that has already destroyed several other planets. Elric knows that he must stop the Destroyer, but he is also aware that he is no match for it alone.
Elric sets out on a journey to find other Eternal Champions who can help him fight the Destroyer. Along the way, he encounters a variety of strange and dangerous creatures, including the shapeshifter Dorian Hawkmoon, the time-traveller Corum Jhaelen, and the albino warrior Erekose.
Eventually, Elric and his allies reach Tanelorn and confront the Destroyer. The battle is long and bloody, but in the end, Elric and his companions are victorious. The Destroyer is destroyed and Tanelorn is saved.
However, the victory is bittersweet. Elric’s sword Stormbringer has claimed many lives during the battle, including some of Elric’s closest friends and allies. Elric is also aware that the Destroyer is not truly gone. It is simply dormant, waiting for the opportunity to strike again.
The Destroyer is a dark and powerful novel that explores themes of good versus evil, free will versus determinism, and the nature of reality. It is a classic of the science fiction genre and a must-read for fans of Michael Moorcock’s work.
Conclusion
In addition to the main plot, the novel also explores a number of other themes, including the nature of violence, the role of the hero, and the relationship between art and reality. The Destroyer is a complex and challenging novel that rewards careful reading.
