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.
