The Curious Case of H. P. Lovecraft - Softcover

Roland, Paul

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0859655172 ISBN 13: 9780859655170

Publisher: Plexus Publishing, 2014

Synopsis

H. P. Lovecraft is widely regarded as one of the greatest writers of modern horror fiction and a pervasive influence on popular culture. His monstrous creations have influenced the look of films such as Alien, Hellboy and even Pirates of the Caribbean, and his most memorable creatures have featured in almost every form of fantasy art. Yet this eccentric and reclusive resident of Providence, Rhode Island, did not have a book published during his lifetime and died at the age of 46 in comparative obscurity, convinced that he had failed to achieve the recognition he deserved.

In this comprehensive new biography, author Paul Roland examines the life and work of the man Stephen King called the 20th century’s greatest practitioner of the classic horror tale,” and reveals that Lovecraft’s vision was a projection of his inner demons, his recurring nightmares and his inability to live in what he considered a hostile world.

The book is illustrated with rare personal sketches of his creations by Lovecraft himself, images pulp fiction magazines of the period, film stills and posters, comic strip and graphic novel panels, family photographs, as well as facsimiles of private correspondence, original manuscripts and diary extracts in Lovecraft’s own hand.

About this title

About the Author:

Paul Roland has written extensively on horror films and fiction for many national newspapers, magazines and websites since the early 1980s, including Kerrang!, Total Film, FilmFour, What DVD and The Mail on Sunday. He has also included extensive features on Lovecraft in several of the 30 books that he has had published, including The Complete Guide to Dreams (Hamlyn) and The Dark History of the Occult (Arcturus). Roland's other books include The Crimes of Jack the Ripper, Investigating the Unexplained, The Complete Book of Ghosts and Nazis and the Occult. He lives in London.

Review:

You need to read him he’s where the darkness starts.’ Neil Gaiman

'A wonderful book. The writing is informative and elegant and it's obvious that Paul Roland is a huge fan.' Eamonn Murphy, SFcrowsnest.com

'The Curious Case of H.P. Lovecraft not only pays homage to previous publications but offers itself as a unique volume that will stand tall on its own it will be a prized volume on our shelf. The contents are well sourced, has a brilliantly written narrative and extensive material in the Appendices.' Comfychairzine.com

'A keenly written insight into the life of one of the most recognised names in fiction intelligent, informative analysis of many of Lovecraft's stories The Curious Case of H.P. Lovecraft is a must read.' John Townsend, Starburst Magazine

'Overall, Roland's biography provides a solid introduction for those who want to deepen their appreciation of Lovecraft and his contributions to weird fiction. Sean Eaton, the R'lyeh Tribune

I’d recommend this as a readable primary introduction to the writer.’ Andy Sawyer, The Future Fire

About this edition

• Publisher: Plexus Publishing
• Publication date: 2014
• ISBN 10: 0859655172
• ISBN 13: 9780859655170
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 192