SUPERNATURAL HORROR IN LITERATURE, with an Introduction by August Derleth
New York: Ben Abramson, 1945. First Edition. Hardcover. The second issue (Currey state B), with the correction to the first line on page 66. Important survey of the development and achievements of horror fiction as the field stood in the 1920s and '30s. Lovecraft (1890-1937) first examines the beginnings of weird fiction in the early gothic novel, then proceeds to outline the development of the supernatural in the work of major writers such as Ambrose Bierce, Nathaniel Hawthorne, and Edgar Allan Poe. He names as the four "modern masters" of horror: Algernon Blackwood, Lord Dunsany, M.R. James, and Arthur Machen. In addition to these masters, Lovecraft attempts to make the essay an encompassing survey, mentioning or noting many other writers in passing. Octavo. Original burgundy cloth binding, with gilt titles. Period previous owner's ink signature and date to the half-title. Minor dust staining to the top edge. The dust jacket is a little toned, more so along the spine and folds; otherwise very good. Very good / Very good. Item #76262
Price: $100.00