The Long Sword: The Middle Ages of Wisdom

I am an amateur historian and I truly believe one of the best and most enjoyable ways is reading historical fiction. Christian Cameron is one of the best because he does extensive research on the time periods and regions he writes about whether it is about Alexander the Great, or the time period of war on the steppes in the post Alexander periods. 

He is an incredible writer and comes into his own when it comes to the Middle Ages in his series of the medieval knight Sir William Gold as he fights his way around France, Italy, Greece, Germany, Prague and the Holy Lands during the Middle Ages. 

Through his 6 book series we see Sir William Gold turn from a young boy, bandit/routier, mercenary, squire, then decorated knight and war hero. It’s a grand adventure filled with interesting characters  found during those tumultuous times. It’s a fine story not just because of the fighting and descriptions of the amazing cities and culture of the times but watching William Gold evolve, grow and mature. 

One of my favorite passages of one of his great moments of growth: 

“There are moments in life that are as definite as battle. As stark. There are moments when you see things as if they are outlined in scarlet, when truth is illuminated, when a man’s character changes because he understands something heretofore hidden, for good or for ill.

We remember with pleasure the achievements of some goal: the wife, the treasure, the golden spur, the Emperor’s sword. But in our secret mind we know that some of the red letters that mark our days were not achievements but discoveries.”

Every moment of joy and happiness in my life was a learning experience. But the most impactful thing was when everything went to crap. Going through hell in 2001 during the dotcom bust. Getting Rekt financial and emotionally in 2020 and the scars of the pandemic lockdown which ruined my family. Horrific times that still stay with me. 

A rough 2022 with the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Family issues, challenges in the business. But these challenging moments were also moments of tremendous growth and insight. I learned about myself, I learned about people and friends, I learned about how the world works. And I think I retained my optimism and enthusiasm for life, trying to squeeze in as many moments of joy. Just like William Gold, I am trying to get better and live better. And like William Gold, I never gave up and never will.