Classic Ghost Stories

Ernst Benjamin Salomo Raupach, born on May 21, 1784, in Straupitz, Silesia, was a prominent German dramatist of the 19th century. His literary career was marked by a diverse range of works, and his influence extended beyond his homeland. After studying theology in Halle, Raupach ventured to St Petersburg in 1804, where he immersed himself in various pursuits, including writing tragedies and delivering sermons. Later, he settled in Berlin in 1824, dedicating the remainder of his life to writing for the stage. Raupach's impact on Prussian theatre during the early-to-mid 19th century solidified his place in German literary history. He passed away in Berlin on March 18, 1852.

"Wake Not The Dead" ("Laßt die Todten ruhen"), a short story by Ernst Raupach, published in Minerva magazine in 1823, stands as one of the earliest contributions to vampire literature. This tale, exploring the macabre theme of the undead, showcases Raupach's ability to evoke suspense and mystery. The story follows the Gothic tradition, intertwining elements of horror with a narrative that predates the popularization of vampire motifs in the English-speaking world. Despite its significance, "Wake Not The Dead" faced misattribution, being erroneously credited to Ludwig Tieck in English translations.

Raupach's work emerged during a period of heightened interest in Gothic literature and vampire themes in Europe. In the early 19th century, vampire hysteria and fascination with the supernatural were prevalent. This context, coupled with Raupach's travels and exposure to different cultures, likely influenced the creation of "Wake Not The Dead." The 18th-century vampire hysteria, marked by incidents in the Habsburg Monarchy and Eastern Europe, played a role in shaping the Gothic atmosphere of the story. The publication of the story in 1823 places it within a historical continuum of the exploration and popularization of vampire narratives in European literature, contributing to the broader evolution of the Gothic genre.

This is a reading of H. P. Lovecraft's The Beast In The Cave.

"The Beast in the Cave" is a short story written by H. P. Lovecraft, a famous American horror fiction writer. He first came up with the initial version in the Spring of 1904, and by April 1905, at the age of fourteen, he completed the final draft. The story was initially published in June 1918 in The Vagrant, a publication similar to today's well-edited fanzines.

It's essential to note that this tale is considered part of Lovecraft's early works, often referred to as juvenilia, which means it was written during his youth. In the 1930s, Lovecraft would sometimes share a copy of the story's typescript with his promising young correspondents. He did this to showcase what he had accomplished at their age and to provide them with an initial exercise in rewriting. This served as a way for him to assess their creativity and potential.

I came to read this story because I was contacted by Todd Thyberg of angelbomb.com who is a fine press producer. He's a graphic designer and artist who produces high-quality editions of his own work, but also that of classics in the sci-fi and horror genres such as you might have found in the pulp magazines of the early to mid 20th Century. Todd produces such finely crafted work that when he sent me a copy of his chapbook of The Beast In The Cave, I was minded to read it and interview him too.

The second part of this episode is my interview with Todd Thyberg.

His work can be accessed at his website: Angel Bomb, a Book Arts Studio

https://www.angelbomb.com/

Elizabeth Jane Howard, born on March 26, 1923, in London, England, was a distinguished English novelist known for her versatile literary contributions. Howard began her career as an actress and model before venturing into writing in 1947. Throughout her prolific career, she penned 12 novels, with her most acclaimed work being the five-volume family saga, 'The Cazalet Chronicles.' Her narrative prowess was not confined to family sagas, as exemplified by her collaboration with Robert Aickman on the collection 'We Are For The Dark: Six Ghost Stories,' published in 1951. Although she gained widespread recognition for her family sagas, Howard's foray into the supernatural, as evidenced by 'Three Miles Up' and other stories, showcased her ability to masterfully blend genres and explore the complexities of human relationships.

Elizabeth Jane Howard was secretary of the Inland Waterways Association. Ghost stories and the Inland Waterways Association (IWA) share a curious connection, intertwining literature and the preservation of Britain's canal 

heritage. This connection is particularly evident through notable figures such as Robert Aickman, L. T. C. Rolt, and Elizabeth Jane Howard, each leaving a unique mark on both realms.

Elizabeth Jane Howard's creative collaboration with Robert Aickman resulted in the publication of 'We Are For The Dark,' a collection that marked a significant departure from both authors' conventional works. Released in 1951, the anthology features six ghost stories, three contributed by each author. Notably, the book was published during their romantic relationship.

Robert Aickman describes her as “one of the most brilliant [of women]” and a bit of a looker “so beautiful that continuous problems arose, especially when, at a later date, she joined the Association’s Council. Little in the way of completely normal business was possible or sensible, when she was in the room. … By merely existing, she promoted loves and hates which, through no fault of hers, left some who felt them, fevered and wasted”.

My reading of Three Miles Up is that it is a modern fairy story where Sharon represents one of the fae and leads them into The Perilous Realm. Fairyland is not always a beautiful alluring place, it can be a place of horror and strangeness. We cannot trust the Good People, no matter how fair they seem.

Basil Copper, born on February 5, 1924, in London, and passing away on April 3, 2013, was an English writer who initially pursued a career in journalism and newspaper editing before transitioning to full-time authorship in 1970. Beyond his literary pursuits, Copper cultivated diverse interests, including swimming, gardening, travel, sailing, and collecting historic films. Notably, he established the Tunbridge Wells Vintage Film Society and actively participated in esteemed film organizations in London. Basil Copper spent a significant portion of his life in Sevenoaks, Kent, and he was survived by his wife Annie, with whom he entered matrimony in 1960.

Basil Copper's literary journey embarked with his inaugural short story, "The Curse," published at the age of 14. His professionally published debut, "The Spider," emerged in the Fifth Pan Book of Horror Stories in 1964. Venturing into novels, Copper made his mark with the Mike Faraday series, beginning with "The Dark Mirror" in 1966. Widely recognized for his series of Solar Pons stories, paying homage to Sherlock Holmes, Copper's association with editor August Derleth resulted in publications through Arkham House. Among his notable works are "Necropolis" (1980), a crossover between Victorian Gothic and detective fiction, and "The Great White Space" (1975), a novel influenced by Edgar Allan Poe and Lovecraft. Copper's macabre tales, including "The Academy of Pain" and "Beyond the Reef," underscored his mastery in horror fiction. His significant contributions earned him a Locus Award nomination in 1981, and in 2009, "Basil Copper: A Life in Books," a biographical work, received the British Fantasy Award for Best Non-Fiction. Basil Copper's literary impact endures, resonating through the realms of horror and detective fiction.

Lewis Darley is a copywriter and illustrator living in Nottingham. He contacted me early in 2023 about an animated film he was making for his story The Premonition. This horror story is set in Bristol around 8 years ago. We agreed, I would record the audio and he would then do the long, hard work of animating the film.

I said that I thought listeners would be interested in the story and then in him telling us about the project, so seven months after our first contact, we managed to record an interview. The delay was solely down to me, I should say.

Anyway, I hope you enjoy the story and the interview afterwards: The Premonition by Lewis Darley

Here are some links to Lewis's work

Here's some links to my social pages and website:

Website: https://www.lewisdarleyillustration.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darleymakesart/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Darleymakesart

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/darleymakesart

Herbert Russell Wakefield (1888 – 2 August 1964) was a distinguished English writer known for his multifaceted contributions to literature. Born in Sandgate, Kent, he was the third child of Henry Russell Wakefield, a clergyman who later became the bishop of Birmingham. Educated at Marlborough College and University College, Oxford, Wakefield exhibited a broad range of talents, achieving second-class honours in Modern History while excelling in sports such as cricket, golf, hockey, and football. His World War I service with the Royal Scots Fusiliers, where he attained the rank of captain, and advocacy for the use of Chinese workers reflected his engagement with global issues. Wakefield's life encompassed roles as a secretary, publisher, and civil servant, and he navigated the complexities of relationships, experiencing divorce and entering into a second marriage with Jessica Sidney Davey.

H. R. Wakefield's literary legacy is particularly distinguished by his mastery of ghost stories. As a short-story writer, novelist, and publisher, Wakefield crafted tales that often drew inspiration from his experiences, notably his tenure as chief editor for William Collins, Sons and Co. One of his notable works, "Messrs Turkes and Talbot," exemplifies his ability to infuse the mundane with eerie elements, drawing from the peculiarities of the publishing world. Wakefield's stories, characterized by their atmospheric prose and psychological depth, remain enduring contributions to the supernatural fiction genre.

"The Red Lodge," a captivating story by H. R. Wakefield, was featured in his debut short story collection, "They Return at Evening" (1928). Set in a somewhat jaunty 1920s style, the narrative follows a protagonist who rents The Red Lodge, a seemingly charming country house, with his family. Wakefield expertly weaves an unconventional tale, blending social commentary with supernatural elements. The story takes unexpected turns as the protagonist, discontented with the landlord, resolves to expose the house's sinister nature through a consumer complaint. The inclusion of psychic perception, strange occurrences, and a dark history adds depth to the narrative. "The Red Lodge" stands as a testament to Wakefield's ability to transcend conventional ghost story tropes.

Elinor Glyn, born Elinor Sutherland on October 17, 1864, in Jersey, Channel Islands, was a prominent English novelist and scriptwriter during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. She belonged to a wealthy and well-connected family, and her early life was marked by privilege and education.

Glyn began her literary career with the publication of her first novel, "The Visits of Elizabeth," in 1899. However, she gained widespread recognition and success with her scandalous and sensational novel, "Three Weeks," published in 1907. The book, which depicted a passionate love affair between a young English aristocrat and an exotic Balkan queen, caused a considerable stir and established Glyn as a controversial figure in literary circles.

Throughout her career, Elinor Glyn continued to write novels that explored themes of love, romance, and societal expectations. Some of her other notable works include "Beyond the Rocks" (1906), "Man and Maid" (1922), and "It" (1927). Her writing often delved into the complexities of human relationships, and her characters were known for their sophistication and sensuality.

In addition to her literary pursuits, Glyn ventured into Hollywood, where she found success as a screenwriter during the silent film era. She worked on several film adaptations of her own novels, collaborating with renowned actors of the time.

Elinor Glyn's impact on popular culture extended beyond her literary achievements. She was recognized as a style icon and a socialite, known for her wit and charm. Despite facing criticism for the perceived risqué content in her novels, Glyn remained a popular and influential figure, contributing to the changing landscape of literature and entertainment during the early 20th century.

Elinor Glyn passed away on September 23, 1943, leaving behind a legacy as a trailblazing novelist who challenged societal norms and captured the imaginations of readers with her provocative and romantic storytelling. Her works continue to be studied and appreciated for their contribution to the literary and cultural landscape of her time.

Certainly! "The Story of the Goblins Who Stole a Sexton" is a short story written by Charles Dickens as part of his collection titled "The Pickwick Papers." The narrative follows Gabriel Grub, a grumpy and ill-tempered sexton (grave digger) in a small village. Gabriel despises Christmas and all its festivities, choosing instead to revel in his solitude.

One Christmas Eve, while digging a grave in the churchyard, Gabriel encounters a group of goblins who emerge from the ground. The goblins, led by their king, force Gabriel to join them in their underworld festivities. In this fantastical realm, Gabriel witnesses scenes from his past and present, highlighting his callous behavior and the impact it has had on those around him.

Charlotte Riddell, born Charlotte Cowan in 1832, was a prolific and accomplished British writer during the Victorian era. She was recognized for her contributions to the literary landscape, particularly in the genres of Gothic fiction and supernatural tales.

Riddell began her writing career in the mid-19th century, initially publishing under the pseudonym F. G. Trafford. Her early works demonstrated a keen interest in the mysterious and the macabre, drawing inspiration from the popular Gothic tradition of the time. One of her notable early works is "The Moors and the Fens," a collection of supernatural tales published in 1879.

However, it was under her own name that Riddell gained widespread recognition. Her most well-known works include novels such as "George Geith of Fen Court" (1864) and "The Race for Wealth" (1865). These novels explored themes of finance, social class, and the changing landscape of Victorian society.

Riddell's literary career was not limited to novels; she was also a prolific short story writer. Her short stories often delved into the eerie and uncanny, earning her a reputation as a skilled writer of ghost stories. Notable collections of her short stories include "Weird Stories" (1882) and "The Uninhabited House" (1875).

Beyond her success as a writer, Charlotte Riddell faced the challenges of being a woman in a male-dominated literary world. Despite these obstacles, she managed to establish herself as a respected author and editor. Riddell's contributions to the literary landscape of her time were acknowledged, and she became a notable figure in the Victorian literary scene.

In addition to her writing, Riddell was involved in editorial work. She co-edited the St. James's Magazine, demonstrating her commitment to fostering literary talent and contributing to the cultural discourse of the era.

Charlotte Riddell's literary career spanned several decades, and her works continue to be studied and appreciated by scholars of Victorian literature. Her exploration of the supernatural, combined with astute observations of society, has left a lasting legacy in the realm of 19th-century British literature.

Edmund Gill Swain, born on the 19th of February 1861 in Stockport, Cheshire, was a respected English cleric and author known for his contributions to the ghost story genre. Educated at Manchester Grammar School and Emmanuel College, Cambridge, Swain pursued Natural Sciences. Ordained as a deacon in 1885 and a priest in 1886 at Rochester, he served as a curate in Camberwell before assuming the role of chaplain at King's College, Cambridge, alongside the notable scholar and author M. R. James. The two shared living quarters within the college, fostering a collegial relationship that extended beyond their professional roles. Swain's duties included teaching at the college's choir school, showcasing his multifaceted engagement in academic life. His literary legacy reached a notable point with the 1912 publication of "The Stoneground Ghost Tales," a collection that demonstrated his skill in the supernatural and positioned him as an early imitator of James, leaving a lasting imprint on the genre.

Within the collection, "Bone to His Bone" stands out as a quietly intriguing narrative. Set on a Christmas Eve, the story follows Reverend Bachtel, seeking matches in the dark, only to encounter a mysterious book on gardening. This spectral tome, once owned by a long-departed rector, subtly guides him to a specific spot in the garden. The unfolding events, marked by an understated approach to bibliomancy, reflect Swain's ability to handle hauntings without sensationalism. "Bone to His Bone" quietly underscores Swain's finesse, blending a touch of gentle humor with the supernatural, presenting a nuanced exploration of the ghostly that avoids overstatement.