The Colour Out of Space

Some readers love the author’s use of language. Others consider Lovecraft excessively wordy and overblown. What is your opinion? Does the language eclipse other elements of storytelling, like character and plot? Are there places where the writing would be improved by brevity? Why or how?

Lovecraft’s horrors are usually not supernatural, although the tools and the science may not yet (or ever) be available to explain them. Compare Lovecraft to writers who employ more supernatural horrors, such as ghosts, demons, and vampires. Which is more frightening? Why?

Most horror stories begin with the monster unseen, but it is usually explained, or at least revealed, at the end. Lovecraft never reveals or explains the nature of the meteorite or the colour. Does this add or detract from the story? Does the “monster” remain frightening after the story is over? Compare to other authors/stories.