Title: Polaris
Author: H.P. Lovecraft
First published April 1, 1919
38 pages, Kindle Edition
Rating: 3.28
Overview
“Polaris” by H.P. Lovecraft is a haunting tale of a cursed star that illuminates the northern skies with an eerie glow, casting a sinister shadow upon the tranquil darkness. Every infernal night, the star beckons, drawing the protagonist to the window where he is left to ponder the mysteries of the universe.
As the autumn winds howl and the trees whisper unspeakable secrets, the chilling presence of Polaris looms large, filling the heart with dread and despair. This gripping novella, written in 1918, takes you on a journey into the depths of cosmic horror and leaves you gasping for breath.
About the Author
Howard Phillips Lovecraft, an American author from Providence, Rhode Island, was known for his horror, fantasy, and science fiction writing. Lovecraft’s unique perspective on cosmic horror was his greatest contribution to the genre.
He believed that the universe was fundamentally alien and incomprehensible to human minds. His protagonists, who were often deep thinkers, frequently struggled with their sanity while attempting to understand the universe.
Lovecraft’s Cthulhu Mythos, a collection of loosely connected stories featuring a pantheon of terrifying entities, and the Necronomicon, a book of forbidden knowledge and magical rituals, have gained him a cult following. Lovecraft’s work was deeply pessimistic and cynical, questioning the values of Enlightenment, Romanticism, and Christianity.
His protagonists often have a moment of realization where they glimpse the horror of ultimate reality, which is the opposite of traditional gnosis and mysticism. Lovecraft’s readership was limited during his lifetime, but his reputation has grown over the years.
He is now commonly considered one of the most influential horror writers of the 20th century and is often compared to Edgar Allan Poe.
Editoral Review
H.P. Lovecraft’s Polaris is a short story that was first published on April 1, 1919. Lovecraft is known for his contributions to the horror fiction genre, and Polaris is no exception.
The story is a prime example of Lovecraft’s unique style, themes, and approach to storytelling.
The story is set in the polar regions of the Earth, and the main character is a man who is plagued by strange dreams. He believes that he is being called to a city in the stars, and he becomes obsessed with finding it.
The story follows his journey as he battles the harsh conditions of the Arctic and faces the unknown dangers that lie ahead.
Lovecraft’s writing is rich and vivid, painting a picture of a harsh and unforgiving landscape. The character’s inner turmoil is also captivating, as he battles his own sanity and struggles to understand the dreams that haunt him.
The story is a commentary on the human condition, exploring themes of isolation, obsession, and the search for meaning in a world that can seem incomprehensible.
One of the strengths of Polaris is Lovecraft’s ability to create a sense of unease and tension. The story is full of suspense, as the character faces unknown dangers and battles his own inner demons.
Lovecraft’s writing is also incredibly atmospheric, creating a vivid and immersive world that draws the reader in.
However, the story does have some flaws. The pacing can be slow at times, and some readers may find the language and style difficult to follow.
Additionally, the story is relatively short, and some readers may feel that it lacks depth and complexity.
Overall, Polaris is a fascinating and thought-provoking read. Lovecraft’s unique style and themes make it a standout in the horror fiction genre, and the story is sure to captivate readers who enjoy suspenseful, atmospheric tales.
While it may not be for everyone, those who appreciate Lovecraft’s writing will find much to enjoy in Polaris.
Rating: 4/5 stars.
