Severian is a manly man. He travels Urth one foot in front of the other. The book doesn't explain the background or setting except in small asides, so I am still in the dark about many a thing. I do know he has a cloak that shrouds him in darkness and a mighty sword, matching well with his profession as an executioner.

Love struck, curious and dedicated, he is inspired by a lady from the Glass House of the Aurtarch, one Chatelaine Thecla. He meets quite an interesting band of characters along his journey, learning of the outside world as he goes. He has a near photogenic memory, and thus this book is his journal of the past.

Lofty spoken word and well elaborated environments paint a once glorious yet still thriving place. So much to still learn, I'd say I am in for the next book.