Lovecaftian fiction
A large theme in cosmic horror is that forbidden knowledge leads to madness.
To explore this theme, there’s often some kind of cult or secret society that’s in charge
of the knowledge, and the main character is involved in helping it come to light, whether
willingly or unwillingly. This trope can also be accompanied by artifacts that connect with
a previously unknown deity. This knowledge usually uncovers some deeper truth about reality
or the universe and taps into existential dread.
A great example of this is Lovecraft Country by Matt Ruff, in which The Order
f the Ancient Dawn (a fictionalized society) plays a large role in the lives of
the main characters. There are also artifacts used in this novel to explore this trope.
H.P. Lovecraft's creation of his unique literary worlds, particularly the Cthulhu Mythos, was deeply influenced by his philosophical views, literary inspirations, and personal experiences.
Philosophical Foundations
Lovecraft's writing is rooted in cosmicism, a philosophy that emphasizes humanity's insignificance in the vast cosmos.
He believed that the universe is indifferent to human existence, a theme that permeates his works. This perspective led him to portray ancient
deities and cosmic entities as powerful yet uncaring beings, fundamentally altering traditional depictions of gods as benevolent protectors.
Lovecraft's characters often face existential dread when confronted with these realities, leading to madness or despair.
Literary Influences
Lovecraft was an avid reader and drew inspiration from earlier literary works. He was particularly influenced by writers such as Edgar
Allan Poe, Lord Dunsany, and Algernon Blackwood, among others. These authors shaped his understanding of horror and the supernatural, which
he expanded upon by introducing a new genre termed "cosmic horror." This genre focuses on the terror of the unknown and the incomprehensible forces beyond human understanding.
Development of the Cthulhu Mythos
The Cthulhu Mythos began to take shape in the early 1920s with stories like "Dagon" and "The Call of Cthulhu." These narratives introduced a pantheon of ancient
beings known as the Great Old Ones, who once ruled Earth and now lie dormant. Lovecraft's mythos evolved through correspondence with contemporaries like August Derleth
and Robert E. Howard, who contributed to and expanded upon his ideas, creating a shared fictional universe.
Lovecraft's work often features settings in a fictionalized New England, where he combined elements of horror with science fiction. His stories
frequently explore themes of decay and decline, reflecting his views on contemporary society during his lifetime.
