Terry Pratchett: Discworld And Beyond

[@captspaulding8530]

"He was the sort of person who stood on mountaintops during thunderstorms in wet copper armour shouting 'All the Gods are bastards. "

[@FayAlexGG]

Damn

[@seabassplayer9308]

@@FayAlexGG while it does describe STP it’s also a quote from one of his early discworld books. FYI if you haven’t read them.

[@johnathanrhoades7751]

I love that quote!

[@dreasmom2789]

After reading that and we'll definitely pick up one of his books. I've been looking for a new author to get addicted to. Thank you

[@cameirusisu1024]

@@seabassplayer9308 its a quote from the very first one, the first few pages in fact.

[@OneTopic]

Normally, you make videos about important historical figures. This time, you’ve made one about an absolute treasure.

[@justk4929]

OTT!!! Love your content

[@justinmaitland7335]

His is an important historical figure, you have had the pleasure of living in the time of a man who is a legend in his own time.

[@dannin1278]

Hey OT i just wanted to ask. Where the hell do you get off? Making wholesome content. How very dare you make a friendly welcoming space? You make me sick with your wholesomeness! As the Lettuce and Tomato in the LGBT sandwich i greatly appreciate it. Good day to you sir!

[@Chibotgaming]

He has done plenty of treasures lmao, cant possibly denounce all the people he has covered but to each their own, thats ur opinion

[@chriscostello117]

You must not know Simon that well. Nothing this man does is normal.

[@thatsbloodycreepy8575]

“Build a man a fire, he’ll be warm for a day. Set a man on fire, he’ll be warm for the rest of his life” This always makes me chuckle

[@giladpellaeon1691]

Lol, one of my favorites too alongside "In ancient times cats were worshipped as gods; they have not forgotten this."

[@BlacksmithTWD]

@@giladpellaeon1691 Ad “The IQ of a mob is the IQ of its dumbest member divided by the number of mobsters.” and you have my top 3 though not necessarily in that order.

[@LomLaLay]

"Light thinks it travels faster than anything, but it is wrong. No matter how fast light travels, it finds the darkness has always got there first, and is waiting for it." Terry P.

[@nanschafer9999]

I had heard of Pratchett, of course, but had never read any of his books until I was nearly 70 years old. Thanks to my Pratchett fanboy neighbor loaning me his Disc World Series helped me mentally survive the worry, fear, and angst of the pandemic. I can’t really express how much I love these books, how much of a treat Terry’s writing is. To think I could have missed out --! Thank you, Simon.

[@briangarrow448]

I have a similar tale . Terry has made my retirement a little more joyous. Rest In Peace, Sir Terry.

[@fatalshore5068]

The fact his works are adored by young teens to 70 year olds and every age in between speaks to how good they are.

[@catnekokotyonok5180]

@NanSchafer Many blessings, Aunt Nan ! ✌️♥️

[@albertosousatenor]

Discworld got me through the first lockdown too!

[@JAndrews8957]

as a bit of a sci-fi/fantasy bibliophile, I've long treasured Pratchett's works. I happily shelve my copies of the discworld series right alongside Anne McCafferey, Raymond Feist, Tolkien, Piers Anthony, Robert Aspirin, Sharon Green, and so many others, but few authors have managed to hook my attention quite so thoroughly. I was gifted the first 3 and quickly had to snap up copies of the rest, and I've always been amazed that right from my little 2nd cousin at 11 years old right up to my grandfather at 84, have all loved the series enough that I've always had a tough time getting them back!

[@mikaylastrong7622]

During the time that my cheese slid off my cracker, I was near catatonic, I'd lost my children, and had made my exit plan, I picked up my first Discworld book. It was the first time in years that I actually felt anything other than despair. I picked myself up out of The Pit, my kids came home, and death became a future rest instead of imminent escape. In hard times, I've gone back many times to Granny's strength, Nanny's joy in simple pleasures, Sir Samuel's dogged determination, and Tiffany Aching's acceptance of responsibility. My adult life became an adventure of normalcy, and I am beyond grateful that I was on this earth at the same time as Sir Terry Pratchett.

[@andrewcarson5850]

Love this. Particularly, "death became a future rest instead of imminent escape." I've no doubt Sir Terry would have been honoured to have helped.

[@johnnykerr70]

This is truly brilliant

[@mikaylastrong7622]

@@andrewcarson5850 @jmc 70 Thank you. 💕

[@BazilRat]

I think Sir Terry would have been delighted to hear this. Thank you.

[@211212112]

I somehow never heard of Terry. I’m sad that he was here for so long and I never knew.

[@hewasfuzzywuzzy3583]

For the unmentioned Orangutan: "Consider orangutans. In all the worlds graced by their presence, it is suspected that they can talk but choose not to do so in case humans put them to work, possibly in the television industry. In fact they can talk. It’s just that they talk in Orangutan. Humans are only capable of listening in Bewilderment." ~Sir Terry Pratchett

[@geraldineallen6810]

OOOK

[@Nillu89]

The librarian, ook!

[@PamelaSmithakapossbert]

@@Nillu89 I went to one of his book signings and asked him to sign a photo of one of our orangs - he was a great conservationist and took particular interest in orangs. I have the photo, and his signature, hanging in my office.

[@aceundead4750]

I bet he met the orangutan that played Clive

[@giladpellaeon1691]

Just don't call them monkeys.

[@ethanramos4441]

“The trouble with having an open mind, of course, is that people will insist on coming along and trying to put things in it” Terry Pratchett

[@youtube2snoopy820]

"things", I'm pretty sure.

[@thehorriblebright]

Dammit. I can't watch anything about Sir Terry without eventually crying like a baby and wishing he was still with us.

[@elainemaguire2269]

Ditto

[@EyMannMachHin]

Same here :´)

[@beardwierd2783]

Yep I’m a 250lb tough (looking) middle aged bloke and I’m crying too. When Mr Pratchett left us I felt I had lost a friend but that’s what it was like when you read his books, it was like sharing private jokes with your best mate.

[@thehorriblebright]

@@beardwierd2783 Yeah. Dammit I wanted to know what happenes to the Vimeses and Tiffany Aching.

[@beardwierd2783]

@@thehorriblebright I would like to know how Carrot and Angua are getting on too.

[@astrinymris9953]

When I first read Pratchett, I thought he was a light-hearted humorist. When I read another book by him, I discovered a wealth of depth and social commentary. On re-reading the earlier books, I was forced to acknowledge that it wasn't that Sir Terry had gotten deeper; it was that I had. Rest in power, Sir Terry Pratchett.

[@megaflamer]

Amen when I first read his books they made me laugh like never before, on re-reading them I dont laugh as much, but I think far, far more.

[@denisevans2330]

I'm surprised at how upsetting this biography was. It was thoughtful, kind, informative and probably could have been many many hours longer. I grew up with Sir Terry's books and while his memory and books live on I wasn't ready to let him go. I had the pleasure of meeting him once as a tongue tied young fan and he was an absolute gentleman. Rest in peace.

[@notoriousrrz]

"What don't die can't live. What don't live can't change. What don't change can't learn." The meaning of life via Granny Weatherwax and Terry Pratchett. Thank Anoia, Offler and all the rest of them for our time with him and the legacy he left us.

[@TheCoffeeFiend]

“Do you not know that a man is not dead while his name is still spoken?” Thank you for speaking his name, Simon.

[@Schulzffw]

GNU Terry Pratchett

[@TheBlueDevilState]

GNUTerryPratchett

[@ranzoon.]

GNU Pterry

[@notoriousrrz]

GNU Terry Pratchett

[@cinthiagoch]

GNU Terry Pratchett

[@PinguinOfGruft]

DON'T THINK OF IT AS DYING, said Death. JUST THINK OF IT AS LEAVING EARLY TO AVOID THE RUSH. GNU Terry Pratchett

[@LadySnowfaerie]

GNU Terry Pratchett

[@Codraroll]

Wasn't that said by Death to a delivery man in Good Omens, in reference to the apocalypse scheduled for later in the evening?

[@kaltaron1284]

@@Codraroll Yep.

[@PizzaHorseProductions]

GNU Terry Pratchett

[@TheSleepyowlet]

GNU Terry Pratchett

[@Jimmyinvictus]

Pratchett did what the best teachers and professors are able to do: take complex ideas and convey them in simple (Carrot simple, mind you) ways, all of them leavened with humor. He taught me that no matter how dire the topic or situation, we should never lose the ability to approach it with determination, compassion, and understanding. RIP Terry Pratchett, you made my childhood in a small Texas town infinitely more interesting. I won't soon forget you, sir.

[@anthonycleaver1285]

I've read and reread the discworld series many times. And during this many a celebrity has passed away. But the only one to ever bring a tear to my eye was the passing of Sir Terry. To realise I will never read a new story about vimes and the watch or the witches or even DEATH himself truly breaks my heart! RIP Terry....

[@NatsAstrea]

"Carrot simple" - brilliant.

[@effigytormented]

@@NatsAstrea Carrot: "Yes, it would be a blow for entertainment for the city." "Now that was a Carrot phrase, it sounded innocent as hell but you could take it a different way."

[@evelpete]

My daughter introduced me to the Discworld novels when she was a teenager. It was a magical moment for both of us when he gave a book signing at the Cole's bookstore in downtown Montreal. It was at that time that I realized that a wizard from the Unseen University had successfully passed himself off as a British author by writing about his home town.

[@brolohalflemming7042]

Fun fact: The reason airlines try to restrict the size of baggage is to try and prevent luggage getting on board. Many feet don't make flight work, although flight is advisable.

[@jayhom5385]

Don't you mean "Fun fiction?"

[@williamexon171]

Best author ever. Not just an author, a documenter of the human condition. GNU Sir Terry Pratchett, and thanks.

[@peartree8338]

GNU Terry Pratchett

[@timothygray7412]

@@peartree8338 GNU? I am a new fan of terry. also what is Pterry?

[@atheobald79]

I’ve never clicked on a video quicker, I love Terry and all of his books. His Discworld series was life-changing for me as a young teen and I still read them now.

[@Nicciolai]

The Shepard's Crown was a wonderful goodbye story. He once mentioned that he hadn't planned on writing so many Tiffany Aching stories, but she insisted on it. A fine example of how a character can take control of the narrative. Her last book then became the perfect template to say goodbye to most of the characters. I wish you had also mentioned that he had planned a tweet to be released after his death which had him going with DEATH onto the next stage and that some of his fans started a 'petition' to DEATH to send him back. I still tear up when I think about it.

[@jennemyofthesk8]

I still have it sitting here on my table. It's been unread since I bought it the day it came out. I can't bring myself to read this last one knowing there will never be another. I pick it up all the time and tell myself I'm finally going to do it but then I start tearing up and can't see the page through my tears. His books mean so much to me.

[@mrscake1687]

@@jennemyofthesk8 broke my heart to read it - but I wouldn't have missed out, Be brave - read it - then re-read all the others one after another - a fitting tribute. GNU Terry Pratchett

[@JimTheFly]

Simon, I've watched many of your videos. I've laughed, I've learned, I've marveled, I've been unnerved and upset.... but this was the first time I've been moved like this. I'm struggling to keep from crying not because of some macho ideal of men not crying, but because I don't want to miss whatever typos I might make here trying to write this. Sir Terry was an odd man, the kind of odd that we don't see nearly enough of in this world, the kind we need far more of. He managed to somehow take everything and nothing seriously at the same time and made us look at ourselves, each other, and the world just a bit differently. At a time like this when we need to come together more than every so we aren't forced apart for our safety, we need outlooks like his to keep our heads up so we don't drown in the despair that surrounds us. RIP, Sir Terry. Your life was a blessing to all those who ever knew you, even if only through the words you left behind.

[@markchisholm2657]

When Terry Pratchett died so did a small part of me. His genius I would like to think will last forever.

[@joannakneafsey1964]

Me too mate, me too 💔

[@Kevin-mx1vi]

Likewise. When I finished "The Shepherd's Crown " I felt lost and sadder than I'd ever done before. I didn't just mourn Sir Terry, but also Tiffany Aching, Sam Vimes, The Feegles, and all the other characters I'd never see again.

[@erebusvonmori8050]

@@Kevin-mx1vi You're stronger willed than I, I got a hundred pages in and then just never picked it up again.

[@PyroGiz]

I remember when I found out. It was on twitter and I was on a bus... It took me everything I had to hold it together until I got home. My partner got in from work to find me in floods of tears and having to show him the tweets to explain because I couldn't. It took me by surprise just how much it affected me. The Discworld were the first books I bothered to read as a teen, and Death my favourite character, so at least I know he's in good skeletal hands. GNU Sir pTerry.

[@kdarkwynde]

@@erebusvonmori8050 it's a good book, and gives the Discworld the sendoff it deserves. It was heartbreaking, knowing it was the last one, but it was a good read.

[@Tigermoto]

I was 32 when Sir Terry Pratchett died. I cried like a little boy. GNU Terry Pratchett

[@beardwierd2783]

👊

[@giladpellaeon1691]

I was 33 and it still hits a soft spot. I learned he had passed away near the end of my night shift at a bookstore and we got word to set up an "In memory of" display dedicated to him. I was in shock until I got home and read the news about including his final words and then it all poured out. I never got to meet him but I was lucky enough to have a manager, years earlier, get a HC copy of Thud! autographed to me from Terry.

[@catwiesel_81]

I was 33. I cried myself to sleep, like a little boy. Still get misty eyed when I think about that day. GNU Terry Pratchett

[@saiyamoru]

I was 24. I remember sitting down on my bed and crying so hard that my roommate came to ask me what was wrong and I had to explain how much someone I'd never met had meant to me. I still get leaky-eyed every time the anniversary comes around, or just when reading comments from other people who miss him. Terry Pratchett and his work give me faith in the human race.

[@giladpellaeon1691]

@@saiyamoru His writing style often feels like he's in the room speaking to you. I think that is part of why the lose is still so personal.

[@stephaniesews6603]

Simon seems to be a fan himself - this was on of the best Biographics I ever watched, presented warmly and heartfelt.

[@Yxalitis]

Well, Simon's writer did...

[@pieterrosing6007]

I don't think anyone who has opened one of Terry's books could claim to dislike fantasy as fervently as Simon does on the regular 😂

[@geoffcartertheoreticalstru6484]

One of the greatest authors of the last century; many people got their start in serious reading through this man.

[@catnekokotyonok5180]

A voracious reader I always (thought that I) hated sci-fi/ fantasy genres. Until I was given a Christmas gift of "Good Omens". That changed everything for me and opened the door to the universe of Sir Terry Pratchett, Neil Gaiman and myriad other brilliant authors. Good night, Sir Terry, until we meet in that parallel universe. ✌️

[@franl155]

He said he was proud of a letter he got from a librarian telling him that his books were "very popular amongst people who don't read".

[@hieronymus..bosch8532]

So i don't know anything about him or his books , he's not a flat-earther is ?

[@geoffcartertheoreticalstru6484]

@@hieronymus..bosch8532 He was a satirist who loved science - so he would appreciate the joke.

[@hieronymus..bosch8532]

@@geoffcartertheoreticalstru6484 makes sense, he seems to take his ideas more from Hinduism than flat-earther conspiracy. Thx

[@tmarritt]

As a dyslexic kid this guy taught me to read. By the time I was 14 and had a few more tests done I had the reading age of a graduate. Shame he didn't teach me to write as I had the writing age of an 8 Yr old and not much has changed. I remember sitting down outside a coffee shop to read his last book after he died. Finished the book sitting in that chair in a day with a huge smile and tears running down my face.

[@lilywithkick]

same here, his books motivated me to read, and read everything in sight. by year six I had a read age years ahead of my age but even now the wrong side of 30 my writing is a nightmare. I cried when my copy of his last book arrived knowing it would never have the joy of a new Pratchett book again

[@PhilBoswell]

I have that book on the shelf behind me, unread: I haven't been able to bring myself to even start it 😿

[@mattpowellsinflatablebanan6682]

@@PhilBoswell I think you will read it, eventually. You'll know when you need to. I was unsure of whether to read it or not, but to my mind, not reading it would be a dis-service to Terry, so I read it. In your case perhaps you see a fine wine, something to appreciate after the passing years have metamorphosed it into a rich, heady brew. Possibly a banananana daiquiri.

[@terryjackson4538]

One very hot day in Perth, Western Australia, I noticed a long line of people in front of a bookshop. When I saw who was at the table at the front of that line I raced inside and bought a copy of Wee Free Men and a bottle of water and went and stood in that line. When I reached the front of the queue, the gentleman sitting at the table said... "Who would you like this too?" I said "Terry" "But thats my name" "And Mine" He smiled and wrote. I said "You look pretty hot Mr Pratchett, I hope this will help" and gave him the bottle I'd bought for him. Terry Smiled, took a big swig, shook my hand and said "Thank You Terry" This minute of my life sits proudly on the shelf Inside the front cover it says... To Terry Crivens! Best Wishes Terry Pratchett I'm glad I don't know what life without his books would be like.

[@Modenut]

I still haven't read The Shepherd's Crown. I just can't bring myself to it. It feels so final. After that there's nothing more to look forward to. I miss him so incredibly much and I'm so thankful I got the opportunity to sit down and interview him once many moons ago. He was a gem.

[@PetrPechar1975]

I bought The Shepherd’s Crown right after it was released. I finally got myself to read it about a month ago. Felt... bittersweet. The last one.

[@beardwierd2783]

Yeah I haven’t read rising steam for the same reasons.

[@catwiesel_81]

I understand. And to be frank... in rising steam, and shepherds crown, it became apparent, that something was up. maybe it was the sickness, maybe it was missing polish... but, you know as well as I do, the worst Pratchett book still is head above shoulders of most other books. But never mind that. you are not refraining from reading the book because you are scared of being disappointed in its quality... You dont want it to end. I understand. But, what would Terry have done? or told you? Why did he write the book? to have one more? to get one more payday? Or to say goodbye to you, and give you one last gift, and a farewell? Would he not be the first to tell you, dude, just read the book? Its what its for? Nothing bad will happen. (well, he might also tell you how stupid it all is, and unfair, and he would be totally right to do so, but that too does not change anything) Of course, he would also tell you, if you really dont want to, and need to hold on to the last unread book, that is fine too. And I agree, who am I to tell you what to do? But... if you WANT my opinion, there you have it :)

[@Modenut]

@@catwiesel_81 You are absolutely correct, my friend. I just seem to be very very good at picking other books lol.

[@em_pen]

Totally understand. I had it for ages but couldn't read it. Eventually tried, made it to chapter 2 a while ago and couldn't get any further (anyone who read it will know why!). I'm still glad to own it alongside the rest of my collection, but it's bittersweet. I carry on re-reading the others and getting deeply lost in the Discworld of old.

[@leonie8999]

Read them all! Love this man’s work Cried like a baby when he passed away, for him, but also for all my favourite characters: Sam Vines, the Patrician, Granny Weatherwax, Nanny Ogg....

[@briangarrow448]

I found the Discworld after I retired. His books have been a newfound joy to this old nerd. He will be missed by all lovers of a great tale and lovable characters.

[@catwiesel_81]

you seem to have forgotten Tiffany

[@leonie8999]

@@catwiesel_81 😁 I could’ve written an essay incl Carrot, Magrat, and yes, Tiffany, so I just did a few for sake of space 😉

[@magnusgreel275]

I owe Sir Terry my sanity. I've never met him or talked to him, but he is one of the most important people in my life. I never grieved for someone I never met more than I did when he passed away.

[@iainamurray]

I met him a couple of times; once in Burger King in Salisbury where I awkwardly said hello and thanked him for his books and once at a book signing. I took along the hardback Death Trilogy that my wife had thrown at me and broken. It was only when I handed it over that I realised how inappropriate it was to ask him to sign it! He looked at me. Then drew a scythe and wrote "This book is DEAD". Sir Terry, you are sadly missed.

[@susansargies2043]

Outstanding! I would sleep with that book hidden from the wife be sure to have The Librarian guard it!

[@timothygray7412]

I would love to see that and own that book

[@allysonmcgrory2180]

Brilliant! Yes, would love to see the book also 😊

[@ventactics]

He is my favorite author, I'm in tears as I'm dealing with my father's Alzheimer's and there's so much more to mention. Thank you Simon. Thank you Terry.. neither of you will be forgotten. My favorite Pratchett quote. "All mushrooms are edible, some only once" I may have paraphrased and it came from an Eastern European saying. But again. Thank you for sharing his brilliance.

[@eddiebaby1982]

Thank you for this. I also love what his fans put into motion with the GNU memorial. I also celebrate the Glorious 25th of May by wearing Lilac. In the novels, The Glorious 25th of May is a remembrance day in Discworld, commemorating the People’s Revolution, which put an end to Lord Winter’s reign. Survivors of the Revolution wear a spring of lilac and gather at the cemetery to honor those who didn’t survive. Thus, it’s also sometimes referred to as Wear the Lilac Day. “A man is not dead while his name is still spoken.”

[@Bla_Razor]

After watching hundreds of Simon's videos, I think this is definitely one of the (if not the) most emotional ones. Very, very well done and touching.

[@yes0r787]

Word.

[@bongholio82]

Agreed, a perfect tribute

[@MercuriaObscura]

You could tell he was putting things in order in his last books... and then came the Shepherd's Crown, and I cried so much reading that one, because of the feeling emanating from every line. I would lay flowers on his grave, if I ever got to go there... but he best tribute to him is to read his books, over and over, I think.

[@catwiesel_81]

I think the best tribute we can hope for to him is not to reread his books over and over, but to gift his books to our friends, children, their children, whenever we can Also, always, be more Terry GNU Terry Prachtett

[@mikshinee87]

@@catwiesel_81 If you have children in 2021 willing to read books you are truly very fortunate.

[@rhysjames8693]

"I would like my pudding now nurse. And then I think I'd like to... write... something... I don't remember what." Standing in the corner, he waits. The sand slowly flows, but it nears it's end. The old man still glows, as thousands of threads spread away from him. SQUEAK. I AGREE. IT IS A SHAME TO SEE HIM THIS WAY. SQUEAK. NO. I DO NOT KNOW WHAT WILL HAPPEN.... BUT I CANNOT WAIT TO ASK HIM HOW IT ALL ENDS. The old man looks up, through them at first... and then he sees them. For once, the smile on the hooded figure's skull is genuine. "I... I remember you. The anth... ant..." ANTHROPOMORPHIC PERSONIFICATION. "Yes, that. We knew each other?" ONCE. AND WILL AGAIN, SIR. He so rarely said it, and these feelings... remembering his young aprentice, and beloved daughter. The beautiful child they have. "There... is a girl, yes?" SHE IS SPEAKING TO THE AUDITORS, SIR. THEY ARE UNWILLING TO LISTEN. "Well then. You know what they say, two things you cannot avoid. Taxes and..." He looks into the firey blue eyes, and becomes aware. SQUEAK. "Quite right. Is it time already? I have so much left to do." YOU HAVE GIVEN ALL YOU CAN SIR. "No, not cancer. Alzheimers." I AM AWARE. "So, where is the boy? I remember a boy." CARRIAGE ACCIDENT. "Ahh. Never much trusted cars. Or horses." THEY GET YOU WHERE YOU WANT TO GO. "Must I?" SOON. BUT WE MAY SIT HERE AWHILE. SQUEAK DO YOU HAVE ANY BISCUITS? "No. Shame really." YES. "Is it truely turtles?" ALL THE WAY DOWN. I HAVE SEEN THEM. "Ahh. I would love to see it. Perhaps a small trip before?" IT WOULD BE MY PLEASURE. "The light is slower there... and there's a monkey...." ORANGUTAN. SAME PRINCIPLE. "Yes... will they remember me?" SQUEAK. "What was that? I could not hear you." HE SAYS WE WILL, SIR. "I never much liked the trouble people had with you. You seem like a nice fellow." I HAVE MY DAYS. "Don't we all?" SOME LESS THAN OTHERS. "Is it quick?" YES. AND I BROUGHT THE SWORD. CEREMONY DICTATES IT. "Ahh. How about a cup of tea?" I WOULD ENJOY IT. DO YOU PLAY CHESS? "No. how about checkers?" And so they sat, two old friends regaling each other, though the old man could not remember all of the details, the cloaked man and his rat filled him in, when it was needed.

[@redsparks2025]

He is definitely beyond now. RIP. I really enjoyed his Discworld fantasy series. Also the Science of Discworld series that he worked in collaboration with actual scientist was very entertaining.

[@marcimartin6599]

Not RIP. Say GNU, as long as his name is spoken he can never die.

[@redsparks2025]

@@marcimartin6599 ok. may his legacy never die also. thanks. take care and keep well.

[@worri3db3ar]

There are many authors one can enjoy writing from but time and again one can't help re-reading one's favourite Terry pratchett novel in the disc world universe.

[@maryellencook9528]

Bless you, Sir Terry,RIP. Wander through the multiverse with Rincewind and wonder. Thank you for a wonderful tribute, Simon.

[@J3scribe]

I used to read Terry's books wherever I went to help pass the time between point A and point B. As a commuter on public transit, or a captive of myriad waiting rooms, or a library patron, or just a guy sitting on a park bench enjoying a warm summer day, Terry Pratchett made me the unwitting, yet momentary, center of attention of those around me whenever I would burst out a loud guffaw, or insuppressible bout of sniggering whenever I came upon a hilarious and unexpected observation he so well executed. The beauty of Pratchett is you can read and reread and re-reread his work, and come away just as entertained and enlightened with every passage. The likes of him will never be seen (or read) again.

[@giladpellaeon1691]

I have read most of the Discworld books at least twice and my favorite ,"The Hogfather", I reread or watch every year around December and it still makes me laugh out loud.

[@madhamish01]

I used to find the problem with his books was that I got so engrossed I frequently passed through B ending in C or further down the alphabet and having to backtrack sometimes running out of book.

[@deathwings51]

“DON’T THINK OF IT AS DYING… JUST THINK OF IT AS LEAVING EARLY TO AVOID THE RUSH.” - DEATH Thank you for the magical times I had with your books Terry Pratchett. RIP

[@andrewwalledge6101]

The Shepherd's Crown was one of the saddest books I've ever read. Such a cruel disease. So glad to have had the Discworld in my life and so happy to read them with my kids. Thankyou for the video. Now Where's My Cow.

[@mirandaasurvivor5556]

Thank you for doing such a beautiful tribute to Sir Terry Pratchett..He is so sorely missed by us, his fans & he will forever live in our hearts & imaginations for all eternity..😔🤘🖤🕊🇬🇧🎩📚📚📖

[@conniegaylord5206]

I was introduced to Terry Pratchett through Hogfathers. I watch it every Christmas. Now I will look for his other books.

[@PhoenyxAshe]

If you love the character of Death (and who doesn't?), Mort, Reaper Man, Soul Music (Susan's introduction), and Thief of Time are also excellent reads where Death is prevalent in the story line.

[@lostbutfreesoul]

I recommend reading them out of order, they are better read based on subject matter. The whole of the 'Guard's Series' is my favourite, I very much recommend.

[@joseybryant7577]

It is a collaborative work, but Good Omens is hilarious. Neil Gaiman was the perfect companion for Terry.

[@limeyndixie]

I regret spending so many years not reading his novels. So many hard times in my life could have been alleviated by the beauty, and wisdom, the comedy of Discworld. You’ll always be missed, Sir. Thank you, and thanks for doing this bio, guys. Brightened my day.

[@johnnykerr70]

Man, what a pick. The great great Terry Pratchett is my hero. Thanks Simon

[@PizzaHorseProductions]

Thank you for this. I don't have words for how important his writing is to me. “Them as can do has to do for them as can't. And someone has to speak up for them as has no voices.” GNU Terry Pratchett

[@ralphreichert8416]

I tend not to comment on videos but in this case, well, an exception. Mr Pratchetts writing was and is an utter joy to the world. I came apon his works in my late twenties and two decades later I find myself still treasuring his wit and way with words. Very well done. Thank you for this video.

[@kevinfield2162]

This man and his books taught me how to human more than anything the schooling system or parenting did. He was my surrogate parent and teacher. I use many of his quotes today and they always go down well. He was a genius and when he died, part of me died too. Hopefully he finally got to pet Binky and have a good old chat with the reaper man. Legend is often overused these days, I'm dusting it off and polishing up the plaque for this literary heavyweight that had so much impact on me and others. RIP Terry, I hope your wit, humour and humanity serve you well in whatever god's realm you find yourself in. Say hi to Offler for me.

[@SoulScream1984]

I've heard of Pratchett, but never read any of his works. That being said they may soon be added to my Audible collection if available. The man sounds like he was a beautiful soul the world needs more of.

[@93scarletwoman93]

Thank you! He is my patron saint! I miss him awfully. The witches have been my role models since I was very young.

[@kaltaron1284]

Which one is your favorite or did that change with age?

[@PyroGiz]

@@kaltaron1284 Granny!!! I atent dead!! (as a side note, and perhaps the inspiration - apparently when Hans Christian Anderson slept he left a note by his bed saying "I'm not dead, I just look it" - this was Sansi Toksvigs fact on the No Such Thing as a Fish comic relief podcast marathon, which you can find on here)

[@lilywithkick]

forever grateful to my dad who handed me Discworld book after Discworld book from his shelf almost as soon as i could read, once i was old enough to reach the shelf myself i kept going and now my own bookshelves are full of my own collection, hell those books damn near taught this dyslexic kid to read and love it. I find new things everytime i read one, references to philosophy, science, history or just a joke i didnt quite get when i was younger. Terry had a mind like no other and we were lucky to have him

[@JoelTheKven]

No other author has had such an impact on who I became as a person as Sir Terry Pratchett. This video made me cry because while we lost Sir Terry, we also had the beautiful chance to be on this planet the same time as he was, and, dammit, that's an honor.

[@deemariedubois4916]

I was an avid reader growing up too. Yes dictionaries but Encyclopedias also. Fiction of all kinds, non fiction-histories, biographies, medical journals-nothing was a better gift for me than a new book as I read fast, way ahead of my age level, so had read everything in our home. When I could find nothing else I read the King James Version of the Bible; I have lost track of how many times I have read it. stopped attending church around 14 years old when pastors couldn’t answer legitimate logical questions I had, even worse misquoted verses or had no immediate recall about verses of which I wanted clarity and was told he-it was always a he-would have to get back to me. Often I was told my questions weren’t proper. Books were an escape for me. I can’t imagine my life without books. Terry Pritchard was definitely a LEGEND.

[@demonique7424]

Simon...how long have you been sitting on this one! Sir Terry is one of the greatest world weavers that ever was. Thank you for this gift.

[@collymonster]

Sir Terry Pratchett, the only "famous" person i have ever openly cried about when hearing of their passing, he was a huge part of my childhood and secondary school years, i was introduced to him via my grandmother who leant me Mort when i was about 9 or 10 and never looked back, he was my escape from the bullies at school, my escape when my grandfather died 10 years ago and is one of the few authors i can read again and again and again and still enjoy like it's my first time reading them. I still recall vividly where i was and what i was doing when BBC news broke the news, I'd just finished work, i had gone out the staff door onto a busy market street, i realised i had left my phone and dashed back to get it, when i made my way back down and outside my phone pinged with the news, and i just burst out crying in the middle of the street. not something I have ever done before or done since. And the shepherds crown had me bawling by a few pages in, i was a broken mess by the end of the book. deep down I think he knew that was his last book, it's the only reason i can think of for some of the choices he made storywise.

[@BossPenguin]

YES! Thank you for this, Simon! Sir Terry is my favourite author of all time, and this really made my day. You're the best, mate! Cheers

[@shanna9579]

This one is beautiful. This really made me emotional. I think this is the first biographic where I shed some tears. What a treasure and a beautiful tribute to a beautiful mind.

[@2ToneWalt]

The discworld books are fantastic and Mort in particular. Thank you Sir Terry Pratchett. RIP

[@kaltaron1284]

He had a special way to think about stuff. Like explaining that DEATH being able to go through walls is not because he's incorporeal but because he's more real than the walls.

[@TrustySlavPatches]

my father was a huge fan of Sir Pratchett, going so far as to consistently have his books strewn about the house ranging from the toilet, to the bathroom, to his bedroom etc etc. My father passed away on the 12th of February 2015, a month to the day prior to his favourite author. While I do not believe in fate nor am I superstitious in any way, this was quite an interesting phenomena to me. I believe that where ever we go after we pass, my dad and Sir Pratchett are sitting beside a fireplace, discussing the nuances of Discworld and his many interesting takes on everything. I have yet to delve too deep into Sir Pratchett's writing myself due to a breakdown I had reading my dad's favourite book, Soul Music, and just imagining my father reading it to me as if I was a child again. Thank you for covering an amazing author, who really helped my dad in many ways over the years. May he and my father rest in peace.

[@dylanblack3635]

Likes are not good enough. Thank you, Simon, for talking about Sir Terry and thankyou, Sir Terry, for talking and writing about us.

[@charlesparr1611]

Thank you. A brilliant account of a brilliant man. Pratchett is far and away my favourite author, I would without hesitation name him the greatest novelist, humorist, and humanist of the last 50 years, no writer has influenced me more, and to call him my hero is to seriously understate my feelings for him. Not so long ago I was in hospital, depression triggered by a series of catastrophic events in my life had in turn led me to withdraw and isolate myself. Eventually not eating, or sleeping, for weeks until I collapsed. I was found before the cats had to eat my face to survive, a friend had packed a bag and brought it to the hospital. A friend I thought had abandoned me long ago. In that bag was a pair of Pratchett novels, an iPad, a toothbrush. I have little memory of the first few days in the hospital. I had pneumonia, a lung infection, a kidney infection, Covid 19, pulmonary embolisms, and a mild stroke. I was unable to sleep, and when a kind of reboot of consciousness occurred a few days after admission one of my nurses asked me if my girlfriend had replied yet. I had no idea what she meant, but eventually realized that despite the last days being mainly absent the record, I had composed a long and rambling love letter to a woman who had left me several months previously. When the interminable bloodwork and incision dressing and array of scanning machines had been deployed I opened my iPad and found a thruway dialogue between me, Terry Pratchett, and Death. We were talking about love, and loneliness, and when its time to give up, it was without question the finest thing I ever wrote, forming the central portion of a letter that will never be sent, to a person who would not want to read it, in which every person mentioned is either dead, death himself, or a man slowly dying. Just the thing to cheer up the man who can't remember writing it. Every part of it from stolen characters to style, to the surreality are woven through with the things Terry Pratchett taught me. I had to watch the last part of this video three times, because I kept bursting into tears, and when I finally was able to see it, I swear I saw you choking up as well. I hope so, because with him gone the world is a darker place, with shadows much closer than they were. Thank you again, this was a beautiful and obviously loving goodbye to one of our best. Thank you.

[@JynxBlack13]

I have never in my 38 years of living ever read more profound commentary on life than Sir Pratchet's writing. God Bless you Sir, you gave us so much-needed stories that have gotten my wife and I though so much! Thanks for this, this was wonderful 😁😁😍

[@markstott6689]

I was directed towards the Discworld circa 1990 by an ex girlfriend and her husband. By 1994 she was lamenting that I had more of his books than she did. i have most of his books including all of the Discworld. Five of which are signed. I haven't finished the last as the death of Granny Weatherwax made me cry. Tears for me have always been rare. One day I will gain the courage to finish it. In the days when he published two books per year Christmas Day was rounded off by starting on the latest. When output dropped to once a year the wait for the next seemed interminable. They brought a joy no other author could match. I now am awaiting the day when my children (4 &7) are able to have this joy passed on to them. My daughter is nearly ready for Maurice I suspect. Or is that hope? In the meantime read through number six is imminent. Thank you Simon for this video. You have done Sir Terry as much justice as can be done in twenty minutes.

[@TowerBooks3192]

Just in time after I finished Guards! Guards! as my 8th discworld book. I feel so Knurd right now.

[@TristanTzara100]

I've watched several of your videos and found them largely interesting, but never have I seen you so filled with pure enthusiasm for your subject. Thank you. As an admirer of Sir Terry and his work, I was very moved.

[@helston7262]

I started reading Discworld when he died because I hadn't read them before. On book 26 now and I've been loving it. What a legend RIP

[@jaynedavis4667]

I met Sir Terry on a rainy friday in a tiny bookshop in a tiny town in Wiltshire, he was there for a signing as a favour to the bookshop owners as he was quite famous even then, but my friend and I were the only ones in there, so we had a nice cup of tea and a chat, he was funny, charming and kind, and he signed my book, I will never forget it. When I read The Shepherds Crown I cried for days, No spoilers but he couldnt have said a finer goodbye.

[@RainBird88x]

Funny story, my neighbour was a friend of his, and one time when he was visiting said neighbour I met him, at the time I had no idea who he was (having never read any of his books) it was only years later that I saw him on TV and recognized him as my neighbours guest.

[@amvanderveen5189]

Thank you, Simon. I actually choked up a bit watching this. Terry Pratchett has been my favourite author since I was 13, and started reading the Discworld novels, first Dutch translations, then the English originals. He was truly one of the best men I've ever known.

[@CAP198462]

Thank you for this video, Simon. Sir Terry was a legend. May he forever live in the wires....

[@samvimes7495]

Going Postal...Nice.

[@MercuriaObscura]

Well, you know. A man is not dead as long as his name is spoken... (Sry if I misquoted, I read most of his books in translation into my native language).

[@CAP198462]

@@samvimes7495 ook!

[@damianhockey8890]

Miss Terry. Had the privilege to meet him a few times at Discworld Cons in the UK. His wit and comedy will always be missed.

[@ignitionfrn2223]

0:35 - Chapter 1 - Humble beginnings 2:20 - Chapter 2 - Start the presses ! 4:40 - Chapter 3 - As the discworld spins 11:05 - Chapter 4 - Other works of art 13:40 - Chapter 5 - Further adventures of pratchett & gaiman 15:05 - Chapter 6 - Knighthood & other awards 17:45 - Chapter 7 - The disc stops spinning 19:55 - Chapter 8 - The finale

[@fuckgoogle6716]

No one asked.

[@addivf2911]

Nobody asked for you bad attitude, yet here we are. I actually made good use of these timestamps

[@Ai-dz7ys]

I'll never forget him and his books. He made some of the most difficult times of my life bearable.

[@CryogenicFire]

The only thing that my ex-husband and I fought over in our divorce: the Terry Pratchett collection, and you're damn right I bloody won!

[@geraldfrost4710]

I'm divorced too. The Pratchett books came with me without a fight. She didn't understand their value. Probably why we divorced.

[@astranger448]

Lucky me, we kept gifting them to each other for birthdays even after we went our own way. Those that read together stay together, even if they don't.

[@kclightman]

Long time Discworlder here. I love Sir Terry, and he always appreciated his fans like no one else I've known. Thanks for the lovely story about him. Very well done.

[@fuckbollock]

GNU Terry Pratchett. Still haven't read The Shepard's Crown, I like still knowing that there is a new discworld book I haven't read.

[@Tigermoto]

Hard isn't it? I'm in the same boat. It's on the shelf and I can't bring myself to touch it. Still Devastated that he never got to finish the Von Lipwig series. GNU Sir Terry

[@fuckbollock]

@@Tigermoto Yup, I want to read it but once I have that's it. No more discworld.

[@erebusvonmori8050]

@@fuckbollock Hundred pages in, just put it down and never once had a desire to pick it back up

[@jeaninefeldtmann423]

I lost my (almost completed) set of Diskworld books about 10 years ago. I was devastated. It was one of my most cherished things. I'm sitting here crying as if the news of his death came through yesterday. That was a tough one for me, still is. I never felt such grief for the death of a person I didn't personally know, except perhaps Robin Williams.

[@gemmascupoftea]

💗Thank you for doing this Simon!💗 "GNU Terry Pratchett!"

[@scottholden1862]

Thank you Mr Whistler....you presented the life of a literary and very human genius in a sensitive, informative and humourous manner...it was a dark day in our household when we learned of his demise but the sun always rises over The Discworld and it shines upon everything Sir Terry and we, his fans, hold very dear. Books may be made of paper but they are made up of hearts, souls, laughter and tears...tears like the ones I wept whilst watching this beautiful story about an absolutely unique and beautiful man....again Thank you Simon. ❤️

[@pippadeedoodaah837]

Switched from CC straight to this. Terry is the first book I read for myself as a teen. Legend.

[@macklinillustration]

Sir Terry Pratchett is my favourite author. His books helped me through some of my darkest years. I mourned his passing as if he was a dear friend. He lives on through his works that I will gladly wave in the faces on anyone who asks me for book recommendations.

[@msmorrissey]

This was quite an emotional video. Yes I cried watching it. He was a colossus. While he was writer in residence at Trinity College Dublin he visited our theatre to see a production of Wyrd Sisters. Such a gent, missed by all.

[@Varizen87]

Terry Pratchett is my all time favorite Author. Thanks, Simon. I love it.

[@atzuras]

GOOD OMENS is a genuine masterpiece at so many levels...

[@WHix-om4yo]

Indeed! The Amazon Prime series did an awesome adaptation. Gaiman's memorial was heartfelt.

[@PaulCrispin]

Nicely put together video sir, thank you. I was given, many years ago, a copy of The Colour of Magic by a friend of mine who insisted I should read it. Halfway through the prologue, and not being a sci fi fan, I decided that a turtle flying through space with 4 elephants and a world on his back was too much for my - as I appreciate now- not very imaginative intellect; so, put it back in the bookshelf. A number of years later I was watching a documentary by the BBC about orangutangs by Terry Pratchett. His narrative, observations and humour about the plight of these beautiful animals inspired me to dust the cobwebs off the aforementioned book and have never looked back since. Thank anyone of his gods that I decided to pick-up that book and thank you Terry for making my life that much more enjoyable. As he once wrote: "A god is only as big as the amount of people who believe in him", then he is the biggest of them all! R.I.P. Terry Pratchett, you live in every word you wrote to me.

[@Iacedrom54]

From Death to the Witches to Good Omen, Terry's books shaped my childhood and he's still one of my favorite authors of all time. I'll always wish we'd gotten a few more books. But what we got was incredible.

[@tobiaslundin5810]

I'd imagine many who watched this video couldn't find the like button because of all the tears. Had a rough start in life and school was a institution filled with a idiotic hirarchy and a integrated bullying system. Sir Terry Pratchett's books took me through those years, made me be able to find mirth, self worth through reading and true friends in a bleak world. He was just like my grandad, as well as in that he was taken from us too soon. Thank you Terry It took me four tries to press the blasted like button..

[@WHix-om4yo]

Many, many thanks Simon! You've hit upon my all time favorite author. Sir Terry seemed to find some good in all of his characters, even the most evil. Even though he wasn't particularly religious, I find that his imagination was worthy of sainthood. We all miss him!

[@vodkaandhumanities1919]

I was raised on the Discworld. I especially loved the Watch series of books. Every night my mother would read to me an amount of a Discworld book and we'd move from subseries to subseries, a true legend. After I learned of his death I cried for hours and also couldn't go to school the next day. Thabkyou simon, this brought back so many good memories.

[@jeffrapier947]

My Terry Pratchett collection is the jewel of my personal library. Love everything he has made. Good Omens has got to be the funniest book I have ever read. I was deeply saddened by his passing, but his work will always be treasured.

[@fwwilliamson]

Probably watched a thousand Whistler videos...first time you ever brought me to tears Simon. Thank you

[@Whowascooley]

My favorite author of all time. Thank you so much for this. I won't go in to all the personal reasons, but please know this touched my heart.

[@ThatElfTorunn]

The Tiffany Aching books are my favourite series of his. I love the Nac Mac Feegle and I related to Tiffany heavy style when I was younger. Terry Pratchett was an absolute artist and will be forever missed. *Edit* Good Omens is absolutely fantastic and is one of my favourite pieces of writing and definitely one of my favourite television series. Just wonderful. 😍 *Second Edit* OMG you mentioned Tiffany!!! 😁 I have The Shepherds Crown. My other half bought it for me and I cried so hard. Thank you so much for this video. Sir Terry is one of my heroes. Legend.

[@samvimes7495]

My 10year is reading Tiffany Aching now and is entranced...thank you Terry.

[@dannyhancock9330]

Thanks for the video. A literary genius who not only brought me joy and laughter through his writing but also through his cooking! I love nothing more than a big plate of slumpie on a cold night. Ook Sir Terry, OOK!

[@stelladonaconfredobutler9459]

you made me cry. Terry was a living miracle living on this planet at the same time as me. When he died a piece of me went with him.

[@nnekaotika5635]

GNU Sir Terry Pratchett. The first Terry Pratchett I ever read was Dodger. I read Nation 4 years ago and it was amazing.

[@ChristopherMB87]

I came in late to becoming a fan of Sir Pratchett, but since I've had he's been my biggest source of inspiration and my favorite comfort read. Many of my friends are discovering his works recently, and I'm glad to share my love of his works with them. For all the joy, thoughts and challenges he brought me, I hope he does the same for my friends and countless generations that come after us. GNU Sir Terry Pratchett.

[@anonymoose9315]

He was such a beautiful soul. He really is a once in a generation kind of genius.

[@MarcandCars]

Thanks for this one team. Brought me to tears, to remember when I felt like I lost the friend I never got to meet.