Sword Of Martin - Tumblr Posts
Martin, despite putting up his sword after his war with Tsarmina, sees himself in not only Matthias but all Abbey warriors. His method of bringing peace is "go out and take it!"
New favorite idea: Germaine and Martin arguing over Redwall from the Dark Forest like it’s their kid.
Germaine: Martin if you keep assisting them with those vermin attacks they’ll never learn and grow on their own! You’re going to give them dependency issues!
Martin: Come on, Germaine, a few riddles never hurt anybody!
Germaine: You say that now, but wait until their all grown up and you’re no longer haunting them.
Martin: That will never happen.
Germaine: Abbey’s all grow up sometime, Martin! You have to prepare them for life in the real world!
Martin: They DO live in the real world!
Germaine: NOT FOR MUCH LONGER IF YOU DON’T LET THEM MAKE SOME MISTAKES AND GROW BETTER FOR IT!
Ok I was confused about what this meant but @lostmousemaid and I talked about it and it's so Interesting. This is what we think:
The difference is between whether Matthias or the sword is the focus of the sentence. It could be saying "Matthias, shall wield my sword for me," as in Matthias is Martin's spiritual descent and will work as the next Abbey warrior, protecting Martin (and everyone's) home. It could also be saying "My sword shall judge Matthias for me," as in Martin's spirit works through Matthias via the sword, the sword having belonged to Martin.
I know Abbot Mortimer said that the sword wasn't magical, "It contains no secret spell, nor holds within its blade any magical power. This sword is made for only one purpose, to kill." However, I disagree with Abbot Mortimer. It's true that Redwall is a place of peace, and the sword should be hung up out of respect for that philosophy and the weight the weapon carries. It is a weapon, but it is also a symbol of power, used to protect the great Redwall Abbey. It is part of Martin's image, which is a point of cultural pride. If it is such an important tool, why shouldn't Martin be able to work with the sword like he works in so many other situations?
Personally, I like both interpretations! Martin is an iconic character, he is so important to Redwall. I really do care so much for him. The way that he cares for Matthias, and many good goodbeasts in Mossflower, really speaks to me. Maybe both options are possible!
“my sword shall wield for me” vs. “my sword shall judge for me”
I ordered one already. You’re amazing, Lottie ☺️
I finally opened an Etsy shop! There's literally just one listing now, but I think it's pretty awesome--this vinyl sticker of Martin the Warrior's sword!
Redwall has my heart now and forever--and this illustration is my favorite in the entire series--so I had to carve this interpretation when practicing linocuts.
Note: this image is clearly inspired by the iconic illustration by Troy Howell. I have his permission to sell this interpretation.