The Farthest Shore

The final book of the trilogy most closely matches my memory. The majesty of the dragons here is beautifully written, and seems to be the template for everything dragons represent in my mind—along with Smaug. Ged is in full control of his powers, and is a stately and serious presence throughout. But I’d forgotten how Arren becomes the focus of the story - Ged again moves through the story almost in the background.

Reading the trilogy again, I was surprised how it was far more about complex adult emotions rather than teenage wide-eyed wonder. But I’m sure if I read it again as a teen it would be the reverse: the amazing lands, people, and creatures of Earthsea, and feeling of unbridled horizons.