HBO’s Game of Thrones adapts George R.R. Martin’s beloved fantasy books, but those familiar with the series may be wondering why the show isn’t called A Song of Ice and Fire. After all, that’s the name of Martin’s book series; A Game of Thrones is simply the first installment. The decision to name an adaptation of the entire series after the first book might seem perplexing at first glance. However, it does make sense when you consider the goal of the TV adaptation and the themes that it leans into.