It’s my understanding that it was originally a radio play that was adapted to other mediums shortly thereafter. The Wikipedia page for the franchise also says that Douglas Adams rewrote portions of the story for each adaptation.
I like to be a purist when it comes to reading my fiction, and I’m not usually down with authors retroactively editing their works unless it’s to correct the eagles in LOTR. I want to choose the right version that people generally consider to be the best, most often referenced, and most faithful to the concepts.
Which version is your preferred version, and which version should I consume for a first time?
by ChuggChugulous
5 Comments
Audiobook with Stephen Fry reading!
100% books first.
They’re definitely the most polished and have the most consistent voice.
Read the whole package.
It wasn’t “retroactive editing”. Adams intended from the start to be a living, adaptable story. He wanted every iteration to be slightly different and to include new scenes.
I’d go for this order:
1. Listen to the first 2 radio series (Primary and Secondary Phases)
2. Read the books
3. Watch the TV show
4. Listen to the 3-5 radio series (Tertiary, Quandary and Quintessential Phases)
5. Watch the film