In George R.R. Martin’s fantasy novel A Game of Thrones, what is the motto of House Stark?
Answer
Winter is Coming
In George R.R. Martin’s fantasy novel A Game of Thrones, House Stark’s motto is “Winter is Coming.”
The phrase is the formal words of House Stark, the noble family ruling the North from Winterfell. Unlike many heraldic slogans that boast of strength or glory, the Stark motto is a warning. It reflects the family’s belief that prosperous seasons are temporary and that hardship must always be expected.
In the world of the novel, winter is not merely a change in weather. Seasons can last for years, and a long winter threatens food supplies, travel, and survival. The Starks therefore treat preparedness as a political and moral duty. Their words also hint at dangers beyond the ordinary conflicts among Westerosi nobles.
The motto is sometimes confused with other major house words. “Hear Me Roar” belongs to House Lannister, “Fire and Blood” to House Targaryen, and “We Do Not Sow” to House Greyjoy. House Stark’s emblem is a direwolf on a field of ice and white.