Books Like...
Starry Speculative Corpse, the second volume in Eugene Thacker's Horror of Philosophy series, delves into the realm of philosophy itself, focusing on concepts of darkness, nothingness, and negation. Thacker approaches philosophy as a work of horror, exploring the futility at its core and aiming to think the impossible thought of a world without us. The book spans from ancient darkness mysticism to modern speculative nihilism, offering a unique perspective on philosophy as a discipline.
Thacker's writing style is described as dark, engaging, and mystic, with a focus on nihilism and pessimism. He combines philosophical insights from thinkers like Nietzsche, Kant, and Schopenhauer with elements of horror and mysticism, creating a thought-provoking exploration of existence, negation, and the limits of human understanding.
If you liked Starry Speculative Corpse, here are the top 6 books to read next:
(We also have 24 recommendations for the series: Horror of Philosophy)
- #1
Save:'The Weird and the Eerie' by Mark Fisher explores two distinct subgenres often categorized within Horror, focusing on the strange and the uncanny rather than traditional horror elements. Fisher delves into the concepts of the weird and the eerie, defining them through examples from literature, film, music, and art. The book discusses how these genres challenge standard perceptions and invite speculation on the nature of agency and existence, ultimately aiming to clarify the underlying aesthetics that evoke feelings of unease and fascination.
Fisher's writing style in 'The Weird and the Eerie' is described as lucid and thought-provoking, blending critical theory with accessible language. Through concise definitions and tasteful examples, Fisher successfully navigates complex concepts, offering readers a deeper understanding of the weird and the eerie. Despite some opinions noting a lack of depth in certain sections, the book is praised for its ability to stimulate contemplation on genres beyond horror and inspire a new perspective on aesthetics and cultural works.
What is the weird? When we say something is weird, what kind of feeling are we pointing to? I want to argue that the weird is a particular kind of perturbation. It involves a sensation of wrongness: a... Carol J. Clover's book "Men, Women, and Chain Saws: Gender in the Modern Horror Film" delves into the analysis of gender roles in horror films, particularly focusing on slasher films, possession films, and rape revenge films. The author explores how these films represent fluidity and shifts in gender that were not seen in mainstream films until later decades, providing a thought-provoking examination of the gender dynamics within the horror genre. Clover's writing style is described as methodical, accessible, and engaging, offering a deep dive into the intersection of horror, gender, and audience identification.
'The Monster Show: A Cultural History of Horror' by David J. Skal is a comprehensive exploration of the history and evolution of horror movies, delving into the political, social, and cultural contexts that shaped the genre. Skal meticulously details the significance of iconic horror films and figures, tracing the roots of horror from early silent films to the more modern, gruesome portrayals. The writing style is informative yet engaging, providing insights into the deeper meanings reflected in popular horror films throughout different eras.
- #4
Save:'Danse Macabre' by Stephen King is a personal study and review of the horror genre from 1950-1980. King delves into various mediums of horror including print, radio, film, and comics, exploring their influence on popular culture in the United States. The book is described as a retrospective of horror in fiction and film, with King's analysis providing insights into how horror films mirror real-world fears of the eras they were made in. King's conversational tone and engaging writing style make the book an enjoyable and informative read for fans of horror in any form.
King's 'Danse Macabre' is a mix of autobiography, critique, and analysis of horror books, movies, and TV shows, offering a wide arc of the horror genre from the Cold War era to the Seventies and Eighties. The book is noted for its informal and engaging approach, providing thoughtful and illuminating observations on the horror genre. King's recommendations of can't-miss movies and novels, as well as his insights into horror archetypes, make 'Danse Macabre' a valuable resource for readers looking to expand their knowledge of classic horror.
FOR ME, the terror—the real terror, as opposed to whatever demons and boogeys which might have been living in my own mind—began on an afternoon in October of 1957. I had just turned ten. And, as was o... 'The Conspiracy Against the Human Race' by Thomas Ligotti delves into the horror that consciousness brings about, presenting a pessimistic view on life, mankind, and the universe. Ligotti explores the idea that human existence is a curse, with consciousness being a detriment rather than a benefit. Through references to various philosophers, mystics, and neuroscientists, Ligotti argues that life is inherently meaningless and existence is a painful cul de sac. serves as a philosophical exploration of the horror that comes from being aware of our mortality and the futility of seeking meaning in an indifferent universe.
To avoid all possibility of false appearances, I should disclose up front to being a writer of supernatural horror stories. Strictly speaking, then, The Conspiracy against the Human Race represents mo...'Paperbacks from Hell: The Twisted History of '70s and '80s Horror Fiction' by Grady Hendrix is a detailed exploration of the horror paperback publishing industry from the mid-70s to mid-80s. The book delves into the colorful covers and beautiful artwork created by renowned illustrators during this era, showcasing the evolution of horror trends and social issues reflected in the genre. Hendrix provides insights into the behind-the-scenes of the cover artists, publishers, and the impact of these horror novels on the genre, making it an essential read for horror enthusiasts and those interested in the cultural history of the 1970s and 1980s.
The book offers a mix of humor, affection, and informative content, presenting a nostalgic look at the horror fiction boom of the '70s and '80s through vivid descriptions of novels and their iconic cover art. Hendrix's writing style combines snarky humor with a genuine appreciation for the subject matter, providing readers with an engaging and educational journey through the history of horror literature, covering various sub-genres like haunted houses, vampires, and more.
It’s not that people weren’t buying books. After crashing in the 1950s, the paperback market surged back less than a decade later when college students turned Ballantine’s paperback editions of The Lo...
