Reviews

I really enjoyed it. It's far more unsettling than a story about a mystery color has any right to be. It's also better than some of Lovecraft's earlier work, and more characteristic of the style he's known for.

nedens's review against another edition

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dark mysterious medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? No
Loveable characters? No
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

3.75

H.P. Lovecraft's "The Colour Out of Space" is a masterclass in the art of implicit horror, an atmospheric narrative that relies on the reader's imagination to sketch the fine details of its chilling story. Lovecraft's deliberate vagueness provides the foundation for a tale that revolves around a mysterious meteorite and its insidious effects on the Gardner family and their environment.

Spoiler

As the otherworldly colour released from the meteorite begins to drain the vitality of everything in its path, the family and their farm descend into a maddening void of desolation.

While Lovecraft's approach to horror emphasizes the unknown, the unseen, and the ineffable, it stands in contrast to the vivid explicitness found in works such as Jeff VanderMeer's "Annihilation" and Harlan Ellison's "I Have No Mouth, and I Must Scream". VanderMeer's narrative, for instance, delves deep into the eerie landscapes of Area X and the personal journey of its protagonist, offering tangible and detailed horrors. Ellison’s tale is similarly forthright, thrusting readers into the raw anguish of characters ensnared in an inescapable nightmare.

Yet, while "The Colour Out of Space" brilliantly encapsulates Lovecraft's signature style, there's an underlying desire for a more comprehensive exploration of its themes. The story has the potential to venture deeper into the psychological effects of the mysterious colour on the afflicted individuals and the broader community. Although Lovecraft’s work is undoubtedly haunting, one can't help but wonder what it would be like with the emotional depth and detail seen in works like "Annihilation".

In conclusion, "The Colour Out of Space" stands as a testament to Lovecraft's unique brand of cosmic horror, offering readers a tale that is as mesmerizing as it is unsettling. The story, with its subtle hints and atmospheric tension, is a distinctive experience that sets it apart from the more explicit horrors portrayed by authors like VanderMeer and Ellison. Whether one prefers the veiled mysteries of Lovecraft or the vivid terrors of other writers, the world of horror literature boasts a rich tapestry of tales for all inclinations.

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