Lightbringer

Robert Jordan may be the strongest influence on the overall feel of the series. Weeks has admitted that his first novel as a teenager was "perilously close to plagiarizing" Jordan before he found his own voice. Similarities include:

• Detailed magic systems
• Politics intertwined with magic
• Large ensemble casts
• Military campaigns
• Prophecies and chosen figures

The series is deeply influenced by Christian theology, although it is not a direct allegory. Themes include: -Sacrifice and redemption -Sin and forgiveness -Faith versus doubt -Prophecy -The nature of God and free will -Light as both a physical and spiritual symbol

George R. R. Martin influenced Weeks' willingness to:

• Kill or permanently injure major characters.
• Make danger feel real.
• Emphasize political realism.

Weeks has given is that he borrowed a king's dilemma about how to deal with a close friend who has broken the law.

Weeks has said Tolkien drew him into fantasy as a child and shaped his love of epic world-building.