Lord of a Visible World: An Autobiography in Letters : Book Review

"Lord of a Visible World: An Autobiography in Letters" is an incredibly captivating collection that allows readers to delve deep into the life and mind of one of the most mysterious figures in the horror genre, H.P. Lovecraft. With S.T. Joshi as the compiler, this book provides a truly unique opportunity to gain insights into Lovecraft's personal struggles, his writing process, and his profound philosophical thoughts.

Lovecraft's letters demonstrate his unwavering dedication to his craft as he discusses his relentless pursuit of excellence and the obstacles he encountered along his writing journey. Through his correspondence with friends, family, and fellow writers, readers can truly understand the man behind the legendary status. Lovecraft's vulnerability, self-doubt, and unwavering determination shine through in every letter, allowing readers to connect with him on a deeply human level.

An undeniable highlight of this collection is Lovecraft's intricate descriptions of his cosmology and philosophical beliefs. His letters delve into his fascination with the unknown, his obsession with cosmic horror, and his profound pessimism regarding the state of the modern world. Lovecraft's unique perspective is absolutely captivating, leaving readers engrossed in his eloquent and thought-provoking musings.

Moreover, Lovecraft's letters provide an intimate glimpse into the literary and publishing scene of his time. Through his discussions with other notable authors, editors, and publishers, readers gain valuable historical insights into the challenges and triumphs of his contemporaries.

In conclusion, "Lord of a Visible World" is an indispensable read for fans of H.P. Lovecraft and the horror genre. It offers a deep exploration of his thoughts, struggles, and accomplishments. S.T. Joshi's meticulous compilation and annotations make this collection a truly fulfilling and enriching literary experience.

What are readers saying?

"Lord of a Visible World: An Autobiography in Letters" written by H.P. Lovecraft has received a mix of reactions from readers. This collection of letters written by Lovecraft himself provides a captivating window into the life and mind of the renowned horror author.

Some readers hailed this book as a treasure trove of insightful revelations about Lovecraft's life and creative process. They appreciated the raw and detailed nature of the letters, which allowed them to delve deep into Lovecraft's thoughts and experiences. For these readers, the book provided a profound understanding of Lovecraft's writing and personal struggles, making it a must-read for fans of his work.

However, there were also readers who found the book to be somewhat repetitive and disjointed. They felt that the letters lacked cohesion and flow, making it challenging to fully engage with the material. Some readers also noted the constant references to obscure individuals and events, which made it difficult to follow along, particularly for those who were not well-versed in Lovecraft's world.

Despite these criticisms, many readers found value in the book's comprehensive and unfiltered nature. They appreciated the opportunity to catch a glimpse of Lovecraft's personality, personal life, and his interactions with other writers and intellectuals of his time. Some even considered this book to be a valuable resource for studying Lovecraft's influences and the development of his literary style.

In summary, "Lord of a Visible World" is a book that has divided readers. While some found it to be an enlightening and engaging read, others struggled with the disjointed nature of the letters. However, for fans of H.P. Lovecraft and those interested in delving deeper into his life and work, this book offers a unique and valuable perspective.

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