The Lurking Fear

H.P. Lovecraft

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Who Would Like This Book:

This collection is a feast for fans of classic Gothic horror and those drawn to vintage, atmospheric stories with a creepy, unsettling vibe. 'The Lurking Fear' delivers deeply eerie moments and haunting settings - perfect for readers who love slow-burning suspense and exploring humanity's darker corners. If you’re into chilling tales with a touch of poetic flair and want to see Lovecraft outside his famous Cthulhu Mythos, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. Lovecraft aficionados and lovers of early 20th-century horror will be right at home.

Who May Not Like This Book:

Some readers might be put off by Lovecraft’s archaic style, predictable plot twists, or overwrought prose. The collection also has been called out for outdated, problematic views and racist undertones, which can make it hard to recommend for everyone. If you prefer tightly plotted modern horror or find lengthy, mysterious ramblings less appealing, you might not connect as much with these stories.

A creepy classic that showcases both the best and worst of Lovecraft - disturbing atmosphere and imaginative horror, but also dated attitudes and uneven writing. Worth a look for vintage horror fans, but not for everyone.

About:

'The Lurking Fear' by H.P. Lovecraft is a collection of Gothic horror stories that delve into unsettling and claustrophobic themes. The stories explore dark and eerie settings, often involving mysterious families with unsettling traditions or creatures lurking in the shadows. Lovecraft's writing style is described as poetic and original, showcasing his talent for creating ghastly scenes and invoking emotional turmoil in the narrators.

Characters:

The characters often revolve around emotional turmoil and unsettling family traditions, though they can sometimes appear as clichés.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is characterized by poetic and imaginative prose, though it can sometimes be awkward or overly dramatic.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot involves elements of Gothic horror with a predictable twist centered around an unsettling Appalachian family, highlighted by ghastly scenes.

Setting:

Set in Appalachia, particularly around a mansion atop Tempest Mountain, the setting contributes to an eerie and isolated atmosphere.

Pacing:

The pacing is slow and drawn-out, focusing on building tension rather than delivering fast action.

There was thunder in the air on the night I went to the deserted mansion atop TempestMountainto find the lurking fear. I was not alone, for foolhardiness was not then mixed with that love of the grote...

Notes:

The Lurking Fear is a mix of gothic horror and Lovecraft's unique imagination.

It was initially written for a semi-professional journal, which Lovecraft didn't value much.

The story features grotesque elements, showcasing Lovecraft's talent for poetic prose.

It includes a twist involving distinct eye colors that many found predictable.

The narrative focuses on an unsettling family with troubling traditions in Appalachia.

The story inspired a frightening episode of The X-Files called 'Home.'

Despite its shortcomings, The Lurking Fear is considered a good representation of Lovecraft's early works.

It has been compared to modern films and works, showcasing its influence on the horror genre.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

The story contains content warnings for themes of racism and psychological distress.

From The Publisher:

H. P. Lovecraft was one of the greatest horror writers of all time. His seminal work appeared in the pages of legendary Weird Tales and has influenced countless writer of the macabre. This is one of those stories.

1923

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189 pages

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