
The Call of Cthulhu by H.P. Lovecraft is one of the most influential horror short stories of the 20th century, launching the iconic Cthulhu Mythos. First published in Weird Tales magazine in 1928, the story is a chilling descent into cosmic horror, where humans are mere specks in a vast, uncaring universe. Narrated through fragmented documents and accounts, the tale follows Francis Wayland Thurston as he uncovers the terrifying truth about an ancient being – Cthulhu – who slumbers beneath the Pacific Ocean, waiting for the stars to align.
Lovecraft’s use of epistolary structure, cryptic cults, and unfathomable beings helped define a new subgenre: Lovecraftian horror. The story explores themes of madness, forbidden knowledge, and existential dread, all hallmarks of his work. Its non-linear structure and layered narrative engage readers in a puzzle-like reading experience that mirrors the protagonist’s own descent into horror.
Whether you're a long-time horror enthusiast or a new reader seeking to understand the roots of modern supernatural fiction, The Call of Cthulhu offers a powerful, eerie journey into the unknown. This is not just a short story—it's a gateway into an entire universe of horror that continues to inspire writers, filmmakers, and game creators around the world.
Property | Value |
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ISBN: | |
Publisher: | Weird Tales Magazine |
Publication date: | 17/07/2025 |
Pages: | 160 |
Subject: | Horror |
H. P. Lovecraft (1890–1937) is one of the most influential authors in the horror genre, renowned for his creation of the "Cthulhu Mythos," a shared universe filled with ancient deities, forbidden knowledge, and the terrifying insignificance of humanity in the grand cosmos. Born in Providence, Rhode Island, Lovecraft experienced a troubled childhood marked by the death of his father and the psychological decline of his mother. His early life shaped his dark and complex worldviews, which later permeated his works.
Lovecraft’s writing style is characterized by intricate descriptions, cosmic horror, and a sense of dread that transcends physical threats, focusing instead on the horror of the unknown. His stories often involve protagonists encountering hidden truths that lead to their madness or destruction, reflecting Lovecraft's belief in the limitations of human understanding.
Although his work was not widely recognized during his lifetime, Lovecraft’s reputation has grown significantly in the years since his death. His influence extends beyond literature, impacting films, games, and popular culture. Lovecraft's exploration of existential fear and his vision of an uncaring universe have solidified him as a master of horror fiction, shaping the genre for generations to come.
Today, H. P. Lovecraft is celebrated as a pioneer in weird fiction, and his works continue to captivate readers, ensuring his lasting legacy in the world of literature.