George R.R. Martin Should Stop Writing ‘The Winds Of Winter’ And Focus On What Really Matters

Forbes Business

by Erik Kain, Senior Contributor

February 25, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

George R.R. Martin’s prolonged absence from completing *The Winds of Winter* has sparked concerns among fans and critics about his ability to recapture the magic of *Westeros* and *Game of Thrones*. The article suggests that Martin might reignite his passion and achieve greater success by shifting focus to writing more Dunk & Egg novellas. These prequel stories, set in the same world as *A Song of Ice and Fire*, have already garnered a dedicated fanbase and are known for their lighter tone and quicker turnaround compared to the complex narrative challenges of *The Winds of Winter*. By embracing this approach, Martin could not only revitalize his creative momentum but also capitalize on an established audience eager for more content. Writing Dunk & Egg novellas offers several advantages. First, they allow Martin to revisit familiar characters and settings without the pressure of advancing a sprawling, multi-decade epic. This focus on shorter, more manageable projects can reduce the daunting task of tackling *The Winds of Winter* while keeping his fans engaged. Additionally, these stories highlight Martin’s ability to craft compelling narratives with a sense of humor and whimsy, which may help him reconnect with readers who have grown impatient or disillusioned by the delays in *Winds of Winter*. By simplifying his creative process, Martin could potentially restore his enthusiasm for storytelling and produce work that resonates deeply with his audience. From a business perspective, this shift in focus could be strategically beneficial. The demand for fantasy literature remains strong, and a series like Dunk & Egg has proven to have significant commercial potential. By prioritizing projects that align with his strengths and fan interests, Martin can mitigate the risks associated with long-term commitments on complex works like *The Winds of Winter*. This approach not only safeguards his reputation but also ensures a steady output of content that keeps his audience invested and satisfied. Ultimately, the article argues that focusing on Dunk & Egg represents a practical yet creative solution for Martin to sustain his legacy while navigating the challenges of large-scale storytelling.

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Originally published on Forbes Business on 2/25/2026