Heroes are heroes because they are heroic in behavior, not because they won or lost.
Zachary Mason – The Lost Books of the Odyssey
Heroic Behavior
H
“The Lost Books of the Odyssey” by Zachary Mason is a literary reimagining that presents a series of alternate narratives and fragments inspired by Homer’s epic poem, “The Odyssey.” Through these inventive retellings, Mason explores various hypothetical scenarios and perspectives that expand upon the original tale of Odysseus’ journey home from the Trojan War. Each chapter offers a new interpretation or twist, offering glimpses into different versions of events, characters, and mythical encounters. Mason’s narrative experiments with form and perspective, inviting readers to reconsider the nature of myth, fate, and storytelling itself. The novel’s intricate structure and philosophical themes create a rich tapestry that engages with timeless questions about human nature and the narratives that shape our understanding of the world.