George R.R. Martin: 8 Facts About the Game of Thrones Author

George R.R. Martin, the mastermind behind the A Song of Ice and Fire series that inspired HBO’s hit show Game of Thrones, has become one of the most influential fantasy authors of our time. His unique storytelling, complex characters, and gritty realism have captivated readers and viewers alike. Here are eight fascinating facts about the author:

1. He Started as a Short Story Writer

Before A Song of Ice and Fire was even an idea, George R.R. Martin made his mark in the world of short stories. His first published story, The Hero, appeared in 1971, and his collection of dark tales set him on a course that would define his career. Martin’s early writing explored themes of war, morality, and the human condition—ideas that would later permeate his novels.

2. Martin Has a Background in Television

Many may not realize that Martin worked in television before becoming a full-time novelist. In the 1980s, he wrote and produced for popular shows like The Twilight Zone and Beauty and the Beast. His time in TV, however, often frustrated him, as he felt constrained by budget limitations and network censorship. This experience pushed him to create a book series where he could fully realize his grand ideas without limitations.

3. Westeros Was Inspired by Medieval History

Martin’s richly detailed world of Westeros draws heavily from real-life historical events. In particular, the Wars of the Roses, a series of civil wars in England, inspired many of the conflicts in A Song of Ice and Fire. The power struggles between noble houses, betrayals, and battles in his books often mirror this turbulent period in English history.

4. He’s a Passionate Collector of Miniatures

Aside from his love of writing, Martin is an avid collector of miniature figurines. He especially enjoys collecting miniatures from the historical and fantasy genres, and he’s even known to paint some himself. His love of tiny models ties in with his fascination with history and fantasy worlds, allowing him a different way to explore these interests.

See also: 9 Facts About JRR Tolkein

5. Martin Writes His Books Using a DOS Computer

In a world where most writers rely on advanced word processors, Martin prefers to write his novels on an old DOS computer using a 1980s software called WordStar 4.0. He likes the simplicity and distraction-free environment it provides, which he finds more conducive to his creative process. For Martin, it’s a way to avoid internet distractions and stay focused.

6. He’s a Huge Football Fan

When he’s not writing about Westeros, Martin spends a good deal of time following American football. He’s an avid fan of the New York Jets and New York Giants, and he’s even mentioned that his passion for football influenced his portrayal of battles and strategies in A Song of Ice and Fire. His blog often features commentary on football games and season predictions.

7. George R.R. Martin Owns a Movie Theater in New Mexico

In 2013, Martin purchased the Jean Cocteau Cinema, a historic theater in Santa Fe, New Mexico, where he resides. The cinema, originally built in 1977, had been closed for years before Martin took ownership and revived it. The theater hosts film screenings, author readings, and live events, making it a cultural hub in the community.

8. He Sold Monster Stories to Neighborhood Kids as a Child

George R.R. Martin’s storytelling began early, even before he ever dreamed of writing novels. As a child, he would write monster stories and sell them to the neighborhood kids for pennies. Not only that, but he would read these tales aloud to them, creating a captivated audience. This early entrepreneurial spirit foreshadowed his future as a successful author and demonstrated his knack for creating engaging, suspenseful stories that keep audiences coming back for more.

There you have it – 8 facts about George RR Martin!