The Sworn Sword (Book) and sport psychology

“A hedge knight could ride bare naked if he chose; he had no one to shame but himself. It was different when your sword was sworn. When you accept a lord’s meat and mead, all you do reflects on him, Ser Arlan used to say. Always do more than he expects of you, never less. Never flinch at any task or hardship. And above all, never shame the lord you serve.”

The Movie House Book Club continues! Kick off your boots and lay down your sword as I regale you with the second tale of Dunk and Egg. Today, we’re discussing The Sworn Sword, the second novella in George R. R. Martin’s A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms.

Our favorite scrappy duo is back, joined by a new and delightfully kooky cast of characters. I dig into the hardships of living in the aftermath of a civil war, where a lingering drought reignites an old feud—and explore the sport psychology parallels for athletes dealing with chronic stress.

I also examine the harsh realities Ser Duncan the Tall faces when his honor is tested. Dunk may be a true knight, but as it turns out, employment is still fraught with ethical dilemmas.

Check out this episode—unless you want the Red Widow to put you in a sack and throw you in the river.

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