In modern lovecraftian fiction, the use of archaic and esoteric language can be a key element. It gives a sense of something old and mysterious. Then there are the themes of decay and entropy. Things are often falling apart, whether it's a physical place like a crumbling town or the mental state of the characters. The idea of an indifferent universe is also there. The cosmic entities or forces in the stories don't care about humans. They exist on a different scale and with different motives, if they can be called motives at all. And the use of mystery and the slow revelation of terrifying secrets are hallmarks of this type of fiction.
The key elements include cosmic horror. It often involves entities that are so alien and powerful that they are beyond human comprehension. For example, Cthulhu, a monstrous being. Another element is the use of archaic and eldritch settings like ancient, decaying cities or desolate landscapes. Also, a sense of the insignificance of humanity in the face of the vast and unknowable cosmos.
Another feature is the insignificance of humanity. In Lovecraftian science fiction, humans are usually just tiny specks in the grand scheme of the cosmos. Our knowledge and power are dwarfed by the incomprehensible forces at play, and our attempts to understand or control these forces often lead to our downfall.
One of the great modern Lovecraftian fictions is 'The Fisherman' by John Langan. It weaves a dark and brooding tale filled with elements of cosmic horror, much like Lovecraft's works. Another is 'Annihilation' by Jeff VanderMeer. The strange and otherworldly setting, along with the sense of unease it creates, is very Lovecraftian.
Typical key elements include the presence of the unknown and unknowable. There's often a sense of cosmic insignificance. For example, in many stories, the characters encounter ancient and powerful entities that are far beyond human comprehension. These entities usually have a non - human appearance and motives that are alien to our understanding. Another element is the use of a decaying or desolate setting, like a long - forgotten, crumbling mansion or a desolate, otherworldly landscape, which adds to the overall sense of dread.
Well, first of all, it has to have an otherworldly atmosphere. This can be created through the description of the environment, like a mist - covered forest where the trees seem to have a life of their own. Then, there are the abnormal entities. These can be things like tentacle - covered monsters or beings with no real form that can change shape. The main character usually has a curiosity that leads them into the horror. And as they get deeper into it, there's a feeling of being trapped, not just physically but also in a situation that seems inescapable. There's also a kind of ancient evil, something that has been there for a long time and is just waiting to be discovered or awakened.
Lovecraftian fiction is all about exploring the terrifying and the incomprehensible. It typically involves ancient, powerful beings that are indifferent to humanity, and stories often emphasize the insignificance and vulnerability of humans. The writing style is often dense and evokes a sense of unease and mystery.
It has had a great impact. For starters, it popularized the idea of ancient and malevolent forces that have been around for eons. This has seeped into modern horror movies, books, and games. It also influenced the way horror stories are told, with a build - up of an oppressive atmosphere rather than just jump scares. Writers now often create scenarios where the characters are faced with something that makes them question their place in the universe, just like in Lovecraftian fiction.
Well, typically, a Lovecraftian visual novel often has an atmosphere of cosmic horror. It may feature otherworldly and indescribable entities. The settings are usually dark and mysterious, like abandoned mansions or fog - covered towns. The plot might involve characters slowly uncovering the truth about a terrifying, ancient existence that defies human understanding.
The themes are very important in a Lovecraftian visual novel. Themes such as the insignificance of humanity in the face of the cosmos, and the danger of delving too deep into forbidden knowledge are common. The characters often start as rational individuals but as they encounter more and more of the Lovecraftian elements, they gradually lose their sanity. Also, the art style usually has a certain old - fashioned or antique feel to it, which adds to the overall eerie mood.
One well - known author is Caitlín R. Kiernan. Her works often feature elements of the Lovecraftian, such as the exploration of the unknown and the use of strange, otherworldly settings. Another is Laird Barron. He has written stories that are filled with a sense of dread and the presence of ancient and powerful forces. Thomas Ligotti is also notable. His works are often very dark and explore the darker aspects of the human psyche in the context of a Lovecraftian - like universe.