Is this truly the end for Lyra Belacqua? Thirty years after readers first met Philip Pullman’s scrappy and determined heroine in Northern Lights, the English author bids farewell to her with the publication of The Rose Field. This third and final installment of The Book of Dust trilogy marks the conclusion of Lyra’s cosmic battle against the theocratic Magisterium.
For those unfamiliar with Pullman’s work, the significance might be lost. However, for millions who have journeyed through Lyra’s parallel worlds since 1995, the release of The Rose Field is a monumental literary event. Many of these readers, who first encountered Lyra as children, are now adults sharing her story with their own offspring.
The Phenomenon of His Dark Materials
His Dark Materials and The Book of Dust have collectively sold over 49 million copies worldwide. Despite being initially categorized as children’s fiction, Pullman’s work transcends age barriers. He explains, “If His Dark Materials had been published as an adult book, it would have been shelved under ‘fantasy’, and no ordinary adult reader would have touched it.” Children, he argues, are “literary omnivores” who encouraged their parents to explore the complex themes of faith, authority, and maturity within the series.
Now, as this multi-generational phenomenon reaches its climax, Pullman reflects from his Oxfordshire home, admitting to feeling “frazzled” by the attention but enjoying it nonetheless. “It’s a nice world to be in,” he says, “but Lyra’s story is done.”
Beyond Lyra: New Horizons
While Lyra’s journey concludes, Pullman hints at potential future stories involving other beloved characters. Will Parry, whose budding romance with Lyra was thwarted by the complexities of parallel worlds, is one such character. “I’ve hinted that Will might become a doctor,” Pullman muses, imagining how a doctor with a daemon could offer unique insights.
Another character, Abdel Ionides, a merchant and guide in The Rose Field, has also captured Pullman’s interest. “I like him,” he says. “I want to see more of what he does.” This openness to further exploring The World of The Book of Dust suggests that while Lyra’s tale may be over, the universe Pullman created is far from closed.
Philip Pullman’s Personal Journey
As Pullman contemplates new projects, including a memoir titled Before I Forget, he reflects on his own life story. Born in 1946, Pullman is a child of the British Empire, the son of an RAF pilot who died under mysterious circumstances in Kenya. “I remember the telegram arriving and my mother crying,” he recalls, reflecting on the loss that shaped his early years.
His love for storytelling was nurtured by his grandfather, a Church of England rector, and later by an English teacher who introduced him to Paradise Lost. Pullman’s fascination with Milton’s epic poem is evident in his own work, where he transforms the concept of original sin into a path to consciousness.
The Science and Philosophy of Dust
In Pullman’s universe, consciousness is linked to a mysterious particle known as Dust, which is attracted to sentient beings, especially after puberty. The Magisterium views Dust as a manifestation of original sin, whereas Lyra seeks to understand it. Pullman aims to further explore the nature of Dust in The Rose Field, though he admits the concept is complex.
“Matter is an extraordinary thing,” Pullman explains. “My head is made entirely of matter, yet I’m conscious. Where does this consciousness come from?”
He is intrigued by panpsychism, the idea that consciousness is a fundamental aspect of all matter. “There’s consciousness everywhere,” he says, likening it to a field that permeates the universe. While these philosophical questions remain open, Pullman is content to let Lyra and Pan continue their exploration.
Controversy and Conviction
Pullman’s outspoken views, particularly his critique of religious institutions, have earned him both acclaim and criticism. Despite being labeled “the most dangerous author in Britain” by some, he remains unfazed. “I’ve never felt I’ve needed a bodyguard here [in the UK],” he says, attributing his resilience to his commitment to politeness and respect.
His resignation as president of the Society of Authors in 2022, following his defense of writer Kate Clanchy, underscores his willingness to stand by his convictions. “I’ve always felt that what is derogatorily called political correctness is just another term for being polite,” Pullman asserts.
As The Rose Field hits shelves, readers old and new are invited to delve into the rich tapestry of Pullman’s imagination one last time. For those who have journeyed with Lyra, the end of her story is bittersweet, yet it opens the door to new adventures in the expansive universe of The Book of Dust.
