Algernon Blackwood’s most famous ghost story, The Empty House could best be described as a horror story without the horror (no blood, gore, demonic possession, attacks by spectral beings, etc.). The story’s power lies in Blackwood’s ability to inspire terror through atmosphere alone. Its major themes are fear and the interdependence of the two psychic sleuths in confronting their fears. Initially, the ghosts go about their nightly business seemingly indifferent to the visitors. The perceived threat from “IT” only emerges when one of them gives way to fear and they begin to flee. Other themes: curiosity, courage, the supernatural. More…
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The Willows
This story from Algernon Blackwood about a canoe trip gone wrong is considered one of the greatest supernatural thrillers of all time. A feature is Blackwood’s ability to build and sustain terror through atmosphere alone. The canoeists camp on a small island among the idyllic, willow-lined channels of the swollen Danube delta. Their campsite sits on the boundary between the known world and another. A malevolent presence has become aware of their existence, and stalks the creeping willows looking for a human sacrifice. Themes: nature, camaraderie, rationality vs. fear, courage, sacrifice, the supernatural. More…