Lovecraft Country

Lovecraft Country is a novel by Matt Ruff that was published in 2016. The book is set in the 1950s and follows the story of an African-American family, the Turners, as they face both the horrors of racism and the supernatural dangers of Lovecraftian monsters in a small town in Massachusetts.

The concept of Lovecraft Country is inspired by the works of H.P. Lovecraft, a prolific American writer who is known for his horror and science fiction stories. However, Lovecraft was also notoriously racist and his works often contained offensive and derogatory depictions of people of color. This makes the use of his mythos in Lovecraft Country a controversial topic amongst fans and readers.

One of the most intriguing aspects of Lovecraft Country is its exploration of the intersection between race and horror. The main characters in the novel are all people of color, and they must navigate the dangers of both racist individuals and supernatural creatures. This highlights the additional challenges and fears faced by people of color in a society that is already hostile towards them.

The book covers a range of social and political issues, such as segregation, discrimination, and the fear-mongering tactics of society. It also delves into the complex relationships between the characters, as they struggle with their own identities and their place in a world that sees them as inferior.

At its core, Lovecraft Country is a gripping and thought-provoking tale that seamlessly blends the real horrors of racism with the fantastical horrors of Lovecraft’s creations. The story is fast-paced and full of twists and turns, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.

It is worth noting that the book has recently been adapted into a TV series by Jordan Peele and Misha Green and has received critical acclaim for its portrayal of race and horror. The series stays true to the themes of the novel while also adding its own unique twists and additions.

In conclusion, Lovecraft Country is a must-read for fans of horror, science fiction, and social commentary. It presents a fresh and powerful perspective on Lovecraftian mythos and offers a thought-provoking exploration of race and societal issues that are still relevant today. Despite its controversial use of Lovecraft’s work, the novel and the TV series are both highly praised for their bold and compelling storytelling.