Books matching: insignificance of humanity
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The 'Call of Cthulhu and Other Weird Stories' by H.P. Lovecraft is a collection of spine-chilling classical horror stories that delve into mythical beasts, otherworldly terrors, and the eerie unknown. Lovecraft's writing style is described as droll and tedious yet pays off in creating a creepy atmosphere that is perfect for fans of Poe and those who enjoy cerebral horror fiction. The stories feature a blend of gothic elements, cosmic horror, and Lovecraft's unique mythology, making them stand out in the horror genre.
I am writing this under an appreciable mental strain, since by tonight I shall be no more. Penniless, and at the end of my supply of the drug which alone makes life endurable, I can bear the torture n...- #2
Save:The Complete Fiction by H.P. Lovecraft is a comprehensive collection of the author's works that delves into the realms of Eldritch horrors and cosmic terror. Lovecraft's writing style is described as descriptive, atmospheric, and focused on the inconceivably other, where humans are insignificant in the grand scale of the cosmos. The stories explore themes of encountering cosmic beings, ancient gods, and unnamable creatures, all while evoking a sense of dread and fear of the unknown.
The most merciful thing in the world, I think, is the inability of the human mind to correlate all its contents. We live on a placid island of ignorance in the midst of black seas of infinity, and it ... - #3
Save:Micromegas is a philosophical tale where Voltaire explores the implications of John Locke's empirical epistemology through the journey of a giant alien named Micromegas and his Saturnian companion as they travel through space and encounter Earth. The story delves into themes of human insignificance in the cosmic scale, the limitations of human knowledge, and the folly of pure metaphysics, all while infusing humor and wit to convey a sense of wonder about the universe.
Voltaire uses the interactions between the extraterrestrial visitors and Earth's inhabitants to critique human nature, societal structures, and the pursuit of knowledge. Through the lens of science fiction, the book addresses philosophical questions, political concerns, and the relativity of experience and knowledge, ultimately highlighting the pettiness of earthly affairs and the insignificance of mankind in the grand scheme of the universe.
On one of the planets that orbits the star named Sirius there lived a spirited young man, who I had the honor of meeting on the last voyage he made to our little ant hill. He was called Micromegas[1],... - #4
Save:"The Colour Out of Space" by H.P. Lovecraft is a classic short story about a terrible alien presence that descends upon a rural area, with dire consequences for surrounding life. The narrative is written in a first-person perspective of an unnamed Boston surveyor who stumbles upon a mysterious patch of land, an abandoned farmstead completely devoid of life, while preparing for the construction of a new reservoir. As the story unfolds, the eerie and unnatural sense of dread builds up, leading to a climax where the mysterious color from a meteorite slowly poisons the farmer and his family, wreaking havoc on the local community.
The writing style of H.P. Lovecraft in this story is described as masterful, with vivid descriptions that paint a haunting scene easily visualized by the readers. The horror in the story builds slowly, almost unnoticed, until the climax, creating a sense of suspense and dread throughout the narrative. Despite some opinions criticizing Lovecraft's poor writing ability and lack of character development, "The Colour Out of Space" stands out as a prime example of Lovecraft's mastery of the macabre, showcasing his ability to craft a chilling and atmospheric tale that lingers with the readers.
West of Arkham the hills rise wild, and there are valleys with deep woods that no axe has ever cut. There are dark narrow glens where the trees slope fantastically, and where thin brooklets trickle wi... Pale Blue Dot by Carl Sagan is a thought-provoking exploration of humanity's place in the universe, blending history of astronomical discovery with a compelling case for space exploration. The book covers a wide range of topics, from the challenges of space travel to the future of human civilization beyond Earth. Sagan's writing style is described as eloquent, impassioned, and poetic, capturing the awe and wonder of the cosmos while also addressing important issues like climate change and the need for interdisciplinary approaches to environmental challenges.
We were wanderers from the beginning. We knew every stand of tree for a hundred miles. When the fruits or nuts were ripe, we were there. We followed the herds in their annual migrations. We rejoiced i...- #6
Save:'Black Wings of Cthulhu: Tales of Lovecraftian Horror' in the series 'Black Wings' by author S.T. Joshi is a collection of short stories within the Lovecraftian genre. The anthology features contributions from leading authors of Lovecraftian literature and offers a variety of stories that touch on cosmic horror themes, exploring the insignificance of humanity in the face of a vast uncaring cosmos. While some stories capture the essence of Lovecraft's style and genre, others are described as homages to Lovecraft, with a mix of contemporary settings and name-checking Lovecraft's work.
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Save:'New Cthulhu: The Recent Weird' is an anthology of 27 short stories that delve into the Lovecraft Mythos, exploring cosmic horror, eldritch creatures, and the insignificance of mankind. The book showcases a variety of modern authors' interpretations of Lovecraft's themes, from eerie and unsettling tales to clever twists on the Lovecraftian style. The stories range from faithful adaptations to diverse and entertaining narratives, providing a fresh take on classic horror elements while maintaining a sense of otherworldliness and cosmic dread.
The collection presents a mix of hits and misses, with standout stories like 'Pickman's Other Model' by Caitlin R. Kiernan, 'A Study in Emerald' by Neil Gaiman, and 'A Colder War' by Charles Stross. The book offers readers a chance to explore different perspectives on Lovecraftian fiction, from chilling atmospheres reminiscent of New England pier to clever pastiches that challenge Lovecraft's racial politics. Overall, 'New Cthulhu: The Recent Weird' presents a well-curated selection of stories that pay homage to H.P. Lovecraft's legacy while offering a contemporary and diverse approach to cosmic horror.
I first encountered the works of H.P. Lovecraft around 1974 on a mantel in Oklahoma City. A friend had the six Ballantine paperbacks—the black ones with John Holmes’s “face” covers—of three Lovecraft ... - #8
Save:The HP Lovecraft Complete Cthulhu Mythos by Barnes and Noble Collection is a lavish hardback collection that features all of Lovecraft's iconic stories such as 'the Call of Cthulhu' and 'the Shadow over Innsmouth'. The book is beautifully presented with leather binding, gold leaf accents, and intricate designs, making it a prized possession for any Lovecraft fan. The writing style immerses readers in Lovecraft's world of mystery and horror, with a focus on slow-burn narratives that build up tension and intrigue.
The book not only includes well-known stories but also introduces readers to lesser-known gems like 'the Horror in the Museum', providing a comprehensive collection that caters to both seasoned Lovecraft enthusiasts and newcomers. Despite some minor issues with alignment and spelling, the book is praised for its completeness, making it a great addition to any collection and a gateway to the captivating universe of the Cthulhu Mythos.
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Save:'Annals of the Former World' by John McPhee is a comprehensive exploration of the geological history of North America, taking readers on a journey from east to west along Interstate 80 through the eyes of various geologists. McPhee's writing style is described as engaging and informative, providing readers with a deep understanding of the geologic processes that have shaped the continent over billions of years. The book combines scientific facts with anecdotes about the geologists involved, making the subject matter accessible to a general audience interested in geology.
The poles of the earth have wandered. The equator has apparently moved. The continents, perched on their plates, are thought to have been carried so very far and to be going in so many directions that... - #10
Save:'The Myth of Sisyphus and Other Essays' by Albert Camus delves into the concept of the Absurd, exploring the distressing match between man's ultimate questions and the silent universe. Camus argues against suicide as the only solution in a meaningless world, advocating for embracing freedom and taking responsibility for one's choices. Through essays and philosophical musings, Camus challenges traditional views of existence, finding meaning in the struggle itself and urging readers to live with dignity and acceptance of life's futility.
My field,” said Goethe, “is time.” That is indeed the absurd speech. What, in fact, is the absurd man? He who, without negating it, does nothing for the eternal. Not that nostalgia is foreign to him. ...
