The Dark Other · Theme
Horror and the Sublime
How The Dark Other develops Horror and the Sublime.
The book repeatedly discusses 'pure horror' as an artistic concept, using literary and visual references (Poe, Goya) to explore how horror can be detached from reality and become a transcendent, almost beautiful experience.
Where it surfaces
- I: Pure Horror
Nick defines 'pure horror' as detached from experience, using Poe's 'The Black Cat' as an example of symbolic horror.
- IV: The Transfiguration
The romantic drive shifts into terror as Nick's face becomes a 'remote, evil caricature,' blending beauty with horror.
- A Fantasy of Fear
Pat's terror at the demonic eyes and the uncanny atmosphere blends horror with a sense of awe.
- VII: The Red Eyes Return
The sudden transformation of a romantic drive into a terrifying encounter with the demonic red eyes evokes the sublime horror of the unknown.
- X: Rescue from Abaddon
The alley scene, Nick's demonic visage, and Pat's helplessness evoke a sense of sublime horror.
- XX: The Assignation
The other's sadistic threats and the eerie atmosphere of the park encounter evoke a sense of horror mixed with a dark, sublime allure.
- XXVII: Two in Hell
The transformation of the chamber from a place of horror to one of tender love, and Pat's reflection on Heaven and Hell being the same place, evoke the sublime.
- XXVIII: Lunar Omen
The moon is depicted as a sublime, dead world that inspires both awe and horror, reflecting the characters' existential dread and desire for oblivion.
- XXX: The Demon Free
The scene evokes horror through the demon's sadistic pleasure, Pat's helplessness, and the violation of her will, culminating in a violent, cathartic climax.
- XXXI: “Not Humanly Possible”
The attack's paralyzing fascination is described as 'not humanly possible,' evoking a sublime horror that defies rational explanation and overwhelms both Pat and Horker.