Algernon Blackwood Knihy

Anglický spisovatel Algernon Blackwood (1869–1951) je pevně spjat s duchařskými a mysteriózními příběhy. Ve Vrbách se dvojice osamělých cestovatelů v kánoi vydává na výpravu po proudu Dunaje. Doplují do končin, kterým vládnou mocnosti lidskému světu cizí. Novela Vrby (1907) tvoří nedílnou součást kánonu literatury s nadpřirozenými prvky. H. P. Lovecraft uvádí, že v tomto žánru nic lepšího nevzniklo. České vydání klasiky po více než stu letech splácí dluh kořenům všech současných hororů i tzv. weird fiction.

Algernon Blackwood patrí nesporne k najlepším rozprávačom tajuplných príbehov od čias Edgara Allana Poea. Má mimoriadny dar, ako votkať do zápletiek svojich príbehov nadprirodzené prvky, ktoré zmenia známu a obyčajnú situáciu v čosi záhadné a zlovestné. Píše vzrušujúcim a veľmi presvedčivým štýlom, ktorý čitateľa fascinuje, takže vyústenie reality do nadprirodzena mu pripadá ako nevyhnutné, a preto ešte hrôzostrašnejšie. V hrdinoch jeho poviedok niet nič fantastického, sú to celkom reálne postavy, čo pri konfrontácii s nadprirodzenom a nevysvetliteľnými javmi celkovú hrôzu ešte zvyšuje.

Set in the outback, a group’s camping trip takes a chilling turn when they encounter a werewolf, blending adventure with supernatural horror. Originally published in 1908, this short story showcases Algernon Blackwood's talent for weaving eerie narratives. Blackwood, a versatile writer with a diverse background, contributed significantly to supernatural fiction, producing numerous stories and novels. This work is part of the Cryptofiction Classics series, which features tales of mythical creatures from renowned authors, enriching the genre of cryptozoology.

Algernon Henry Blackwood, an English writer known for supernatural tales, gained prominence in horror during his late thirties, producing ten short story collections and numerous novels and plays. His works often reflect his deep appreciation for nature, aiming to evoke awe rather than mere fear. Notable examples include "The Centaur," "Julius LeVallon," and its sequel, "The Bright Messenger." Blackwood's unique approach to storytelling sets him apart in the genre, blending elements of the supernatural with profound themes of wonder.

Algernon Henry Blackwood, an English writer renowned for his supernatural tales, transitioned to horror in his late thirties, achieving significant success with ten short story collections and numerous media appearances. His works, including novels like The Centaur and Julius LeVallon, often evoke awe rather than fear, deeply reflecting his love for nature. Blackwood's extensive oeuvre includes fourteen novels and various plays, showcasing his versatility and enduring impact on the genre.

Exploring the boundaries between reality and the supernatural, this collection features spellbinding tales that juxtapose the ordinary with the extraordinary. Each story reveals unsettling encounters and strange phenomena, showcasing Algernon Blackwood's masterful blend of psychological tension and otherworldly intrigue. With a focus on infusing the mundane with an uncanny sense, this work appeals to enthusiasts of classic horror and supernatural fiction, making it a captivating read.

In this collection of his most atmospheric and uneasy tales, Mike Ashley provides the facts of Blackwood's life which inspired each story - including experiences as an intelligence agent in the First World War and adventures in New York - to tell the parallel tale of the author's lifetime of the supernatural.

Exploring the supernatural and the unknown, this collection features three novellas and two short stories that showcase Algernon Blackwood's mastery of atmospheric storytelling. Originally published in 1914, these tales delve into themes of nature, the mystical, and humanity's relationship with the cosmos. H. P. Lovecraft praised Blackwood's ability to evoke deep emotions and create a sense of wonder, making this anthology a significant contribution to early 20th-century literature.

Set against a backdrop of political turmoil, the narrative explores the lives of characters grappling with identity, faith, and the quest for belonging. As they navigate personal and societal challenges, themes of resilience and the struggle for justice emerge. The intertwining stories highlight the impact of historical events on individual lives, showcasing the power of hope and the human spirit in the face of adversity. Richly woven with cultural elements, it offers a poignant reflection on the complexities of life in a divided world.