H.P. Lovecraft stuff.

If anyone knows the work of H.P. Lovecraft, I've heard that a lot of his stories were given to him by real life monsters and supernatural spirits. The gods and creatures in his works were sent to him spiritually and are actually real.

I can't say I believe it - but it still could make for an interesting topic. If what is real and what is not is all based on who believes it, could a story like this actually happen?

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SumKindaMunster · 51-55, M

Lovecraft supposedly suffered from "sleep paralysis" where you feel awake but cannot move because your body is still in REM sleep state. It's said he saw horrifying visions during this paralysis and this informed some of his writings including the idea that there were supernatural realms filled with horror and monsters just beyond our perceptions.

It's pretty potent stuff, its likely why he still resonates 100 years after he was writing.

ArishMell · 70-79, M

@SumKindaMunster I've not read any of his novels but I think those alarming - but common and normal - sleep effects may well be behind a lot of so-called "ghost" stories.

ReaperLinda · F

@ArishMell - Lots of people who have never read his stuff have actually been exposed to it quite a bit. Especially those who enjoy horror movies. His creations and style are all over the place. Even Stephen King, especially with his "It" book have credited Lovecraft as an inspiration. I, myself, have only tried to read a few of Lovecraft's actual stories. Although creepy I always found them very........ wordy to say the least. But the ideas and concepts are scary as hell
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Zaphod42 · 46-50, M

@SumKindaMunster I can see why too. I believed in demons and monsters going bump in the night for long time because of sleep paralysis when I was 10 and 11. Terrifying when it happens.