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William Frederick Temple (9 March 1914 – 15 July 1989) was a British science fiction writer, best known for his novel "Four-Sided Triangle."

Born in Woolwich in 1914, Temple's early career included working as a clerk in the London Stock Exchange. His passion for science fiction led him to become an active member of the Science Fiction Association and the British Interplanetary Society.

During World War II, Temple served as a field artillery signaller. After the war, he resumed his writing career, publishing "Four-Sided Triangle" in 1949, which was later adapted into a film in 1953.

Though he found success with some novels and series, such as the "Martin Magnus" series for young readers, Temple eventually returned to full-time employment in 1957 due to financial constraints. His last novel, "The Fleshpots of Sansato" (1968), marked the end of his writing career. He died in 1989.

"The Whispering Gallery" is one of Temple's intriguing short stories, first published in "Fantastic Universe" in October 1953. The story is set in the Whispering Gallery at St. Paul's Cathedral in London, a location famous for its unique acoustic phenomenon that allows whispers to be heard across the room.

The story has been included in various anthologies and collections, such as "65 Great Tales of Horror" edited by Mary Danby.

"The Whispering Gallery" by R.F. Temple is a haunting tale set within the eerie confines of St. Paul's Cathedral's Whispering Gallery. The story masterfully weaves an atmospheric setting, rich with symbolism and intrigue. The golden ball atop the cathedral, symbolizing innocence and obsession, becomes a beacon of desire for the young protagonist, Frederick. Themes of innocence, fear, and the supernatural are explored with subtlety, creating a tension that drives the narrative. However, the story's pacing might feel uneven, and the characters, particularly Frederick's mother and the guide, could benefit from more depth and development.

The supernatural elements in the story add a layer of complexity and intrigue. The ghostly figure and the haunting voice in the Whispering Gallery create a sense of dread and terror, playing on primal fears. The cathedral's history and the recurring ghostly events suggest a cyclical nature of time and history, where the past continues to haunt the present. Yet, some readers might find the ending and the supernatural aspects confusing or underexplained, and the connection between the historical and supernatural aspects could be clarified.

In conclusion, "The Whispering Gallery" is an engaging and thought-provoking read that effectively uses its setting and supernatural elements to create suspense and horror. The golden ball's symbolism, reflecting the danger of unchecked curiosity and obsession, adds depth to the story. While the character development and clarity in some areas could be enhanced, the story's exploration of innocence, obsession, and fear, along with its rich symbolism, make it a memorable piece of horror fiction. The allure of the unknown and unattainable, embodied in the golden ball, leads the protagonist to his doom, offering a chilling commentary on human desire and the dark corners of the human psyche.

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