First published in 1965, Dune is an influential sci-fi novel which I struggled with a little when I read it several years ago. I liked it, but found the epic plot difficult to follow especially in the second half of the book, when things became quite odd. It didn’t help that the edition I read was full of typos! Following the fantastic movie adaptations in 2021 and 2024, I decided to give the book another try. I found that it was easier to follow, having seen the films, although the story is a little changed for the second one in particular. I’ve seen the 1984 David Lynch adaptation but although I think the characters and settings are more in keeping with the book, I didn’t enjoy the film.
As plenty has been written about Dune, by people who are very serious about it, I won’t attempt to summarise it. There are many things about the book which capture the imagination, such as giant sandworms, the society based upon scarcity of water, dynasties fighting for control of the planet, a sisterhood with supernatural powers, and the trope of ‘the one’ who will save the people from evil. What I find most striking, however, is that the story is set in the far future, yet it also feels like it could be set in the ancient past – maybe a long time ago but in another corner of the galaxy. This is very cleverly done by Frank Herbert, because it gives the book a timeless appeal. The writing style can be dry or convoluted sometimes but I suppose this contributes to the book’s presentation as a historical document (it includes excerpts from various texts on the subject, which were written after the story).
There are sequels and prequels, for those who have the time to read them!