On a scale of one to ten, how good is the book, "Elric of Melniboné"?

Question

I've never read it, & I would like to know how well written it is & if it's any good.
Thank-you for your answers.

Please, no harassment or crude remarks.
Thank-you.

Answer 1

Elric is an albino prince who relies on a sword called "Stormbringer" to keep him alive. The catch is Stormbringer steals souls from those it is used to kill. As others have suggested, his adventures falls somewhat into the pulp fantasy (Tarzan, Conan) realm.
Elric was created by British writer Michael Moorcock. who's in his 70's now. He also wrote the adventures of Dorian Hawkmoon (who has the jewel in his skull), the Chronicals of Corum and Jerry Cornelius among others. Many of Moorcock's works flow together into the "Eternal Champion"...the idea that all his heroes are the aspects of the same person in different times or realms.
It's a very entertaining series and well worth the read, but I have to admit I've lost track of it over the years.

Answer 2

It is set in the fantastic future. Elric is the Duke of Koln. For some reason, he has had a jewel implanted in his forehead. If he is not careful, it will eat his brain. The author is long dead, but highly regarded. It is only I who do not remember his name. A few decades ago, I thought it was not worth my time. The style was overwrought. You may differ. You may pick up a cheap paperback copy and get a few pages into it. I seem to remember that the first in the series was "The Jewel in the Skull."

Answer 3

I haven't gotten to read that one yet - my son said it's good. And I do know that the Blue Oyster Cult song "Black Blade" is based on the story.

Answer 4

well, it would be considered pulp fiction. it does have some very interesting distinctions however. it makes you think about the nature of good verses evil. and it is a classic example of Campbell's Hero of a thousand faces.