Classic Ghost Stories

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The Horror of The Heights by Arthur Conan Doyle Jun 29, 2023

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Sir Arthur Conan Doyle was a renowned British writer and physician, best known for creating the famous detective character Sherlock Holmes. He was born on May 22, 1859, in Edinburgh, Scotland, to Charles Altamont Doyle and Mary Foley Doyle. Doyle's early education took place at the Jesuit preparatory school of Hodder Place and Stonyhurst College. Later, he studied medicine at the University of Edinburgh and graduated in 1881.

After completing his medical studies, Conan Doyle worked as a ship's doctor on various voyages, including a whaling expedition to the Arctic. He also served as a surgeon on a British steamship traveling to West Africa. These experiences provided him with a rich source of inspiration for his future writing.

Conan Doyle's career as a writer took off when he began publishing short stories and novels. His most notable creation, Sherlock Holmes, made his first appearance in the novel "A Study in Scarlet" in 1887. The character of Holmes, with his keen powers of observation and deductive reasoning, quickly became immensely popular among readers.

Sherlock Holmes' popularity led Conan Doyle to write numerous stories and novels featuring the detective and his loyal companion, Dr. John Watson. The adventures of Sherlock Holmes, including classics like "The Hound of the Baskervilles" and "The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes," made Conan Doyle one of the most widely read and celebrated authors of his time.

Despite his success with the Sherlock Holmes stories, Conan Doyle felt constrained by the detective's popularity and wished to focus on more serious literary work. In an attempt to distance himself from Holmes, he famously killed off the character in the story "The Final Problem." However, due to public outcry and popular demand, Conan Doyle eventually resurrected Holmes in later stories.

Apart from his detective fiction, Conan Doyle also wrote historical novels, science fiction, plays, and non-fiction works on a variety of subjects. He was a prolific writer, producing over fifty books, countless short stories, and numerous articles throughout his career.

In addition to his literary pursuits, Conan Doyle was deeply interested in spiritualism and the supernatural. He became a prominent advocate for spiritualism, even participating in seances and investigating alleged paranormal phenomena. This interest often brought him into conflict with skeptics and critics.

Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's contributions to literature and popular culture were widely recognized during his lifetime. In 1902, he was knighted by King Edward VII for his services as a volunteer army doctor during the Boer War. Conan Doyle passed away on July 7, 1930, at the age of 71, leaving behind a rich legacy of detective fiction and captivating storytelling that continues to captivate readers worldwide.

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The Room In The Tower by E F Benson (2023 Recording) Jun 24, 2023

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I've done this terrifying story by E F Benson before, but that was in 2019 and the sound wasn't great. Thanks to my supporters, I have much better sound equpiment now and I hope I'm a better narrator. I hope you like it
In this edge-of-your-seat episode, Tony Walker plunges into the sinister world of E.F. Benson's haunting story. Our protagonist, an unnamed young man, is plagued by an eerie recurring nightmare. In his dream, he visits a friend's foreboding home, inhabited by an ever-changing roster of silent and grim figures. Foremost among them is the unsettling Mrs. Stone, who persistently assigns him a room in the tower - a room that fills him with an indescribable dread.

As the characters in the dream grow older and more bizarre over time, the terror continues to twist and turn. But the real question remains: What truly lurks in the room in the tower? Why does it inspire such fear?

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The Deadfall by Ted Hughes Jun 22, 2023

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Thanks to Gavin Critchley for sponsoring this episode!
Ted Hughes (1930-1998) was an English poet and writer who is widely regarded as one of the most important and influential poets of the 20th century. He was born on August 17, 1930, in Mytholmroyd, Yorkshire, England.

Hughes had a deep connection with nature from an early age, which played a significant role in his poetry. He attended Mexborough Grammar School and later won a scholarship to study English at Pembroke College, Cambridge. During his time at Cambridge, he met fellow poet Sylvia Plath, whom he married in 1956.

In 1957, Hughes' first collection of poetry, "The Hawk in the Rain," was published to critical acclaim. The collection established him as a major poetic voice and set the tone for his subsequent work. His poetry was often marked by its visceral and powerful imagery, exploring themes of nature, myth, and the human experience.

Hughes and Plath had two children together before their marriage ended in separation in 1962 and later in divorce in 1963. Tragically, Plath took her own life in 1963. The events surrounding their relationship and Plath's suicide deeply affected Hughes and became a central theme in his work.

Hughes served as the Poet Laureate of the United Kingdom from 1984 until his death in 1998. Throughout his career, he published numerous collections of poetry, including "Wodwo" (1967), "Crow" (1970), and "Birthday Letters" (1998), which explored his relationship with Plath. His work often drew inspiration from mythology, folklore, and the natural world, and he had a distinctive and powerful voice that resonated with readers and fellow poets.

In addition to his poetry, Hughes also wrote plays, prose, and children's literature. His most famous children's book is "The Iron Man" (1968), which has been adapted into various forms, including a stage play and an animated film.

Ted Hughes received numerous awards and honors for his work, including the Queen's Gold Medal for Poetry in 1974 and the T. S. Eliot Prize for Poetry in 1998. His contribution to English literature continues to be celebrated, and his poetry remains influential to this day.

Sadly, Ted Hughes passed away on October 28, 1998, in London, England, but his legacy as one of the most significant poets of the 20th century lives on.

Regenerate response

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The Golden Bough by David H Keller Jun 15, 2023

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David H. Keller was an American author known for his contributions to science fiction and pulp magazines during the early 20th century. He was born on December 23, 1880, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Keller pursued a career in medicine and graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with a medical degree in 1903. He worked as a general practitioner, specializing in the treatment of mental disorders.

Despite his medical profession, Keller had a strong passion for writing. He began his literary career by submitting stories to various pulp magazines, where he gained recognition for his unique blend of science fiction, horror, and fantasy elements. Keller's writing often explored psychological and sociological themes, displaying his background in medicine and his interest in human behavior.

In 1928, Keller published one of his most famous works, a novella titled "The Revolt of the Pedestrians." The story depicted a future society where automobiles ruled, and pedestrians were marginalized. It was highly regarded for its social commentary and futuristic vision. Keller continued to write and publish numerous short stories, novelettes, and novellas throughout his career, earning him a dedicated following.

One of Keller's notable contributions to the science fiction genre was his series of short stories featuring the character T.H.E. Cat. T.H.E. Cat, an acronym for The Human Electro, was a scientist with the ability to transfer his consciousness into different bodies. These stories often explored ethical and philosophical questions related to identity and consciousness.

Keller's writing career slowed down in the 1940s and 1950s as he faced personal and financial challenges. He struggled with health issues and experienced difficulties in finding publishers for his work. Despite these setbacks, Keller's influence on the science fiction genre remained significant, as his stories often delved into psychological and societal aspects that were ahead of their time.

David H. Keller passed away on July 13, 1966, in Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, leaving behind a legacy as an early pioneer of science fiction and a writer who explored the human condition through his imaginative tales. While his work may have been overlooked by mainstream literary circles, Keller's contributions to the genre continue to be appreciated by science fiction enthusiasts and scholars who recognize his unique voice and forward-thinking ideas.

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Ringing The Changes by Robert Aickman Jun 08, 2023

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Robert Aickman
Robert Aickman was a British author best known for his highly influential and distinctive contributions to the genre of supernatural fiction. Born on June 27, 1914, in London, England, Aickman spent much of his life exploring his passion for writing and exploring the depths of the human psyche through his unique brand of storytelling.
Aickman's early life was marked by a fascination with the strange and macabre. As a child, he developed an interest in ghost stories and the supernatural, which would later become significant themes in his works. He attended Highgate School in London and went on to study law at Cambridge University, although he eventually chose not to pursue a legal career.
Instead, Aickman became deeply involved in various literary endeavors. He co-founded the Inland Waterways Association, an organization dedicated to preserving Britain's canal systems, and served as its chairman for many years. This passion for the waterways and their mysteries would find its way into some of his stories, where canals often serve as eerie and unsettling settings.
Aickman's writing career began in the late 1940s, and he initially focused on non-fiction. He worked as a critic, reviewer, and editor, writing for magazines such as the London Mercury and the Times Literary Supplement. During this time, he became acquainted with many prominent literary figures, including J.R.R. Tolkien, who became a friend and a source of inspiration.
However, it was in the realm of short stories that Aickman truly made his mark. His first collection, "We Are for the Dark," was published in 1951, followed by several other collections over the years. Aickman's stories are characterized by their atmospheric prose, subtle psychological horror, and an emphasis on the uncanny and the unknown. His tales often feature ordinary characters thrust into extraordinary and unsettling situations, where the line between reality and the supernatural becomes blurred.
Aickman's writing gained critical acclaim and a devoted following, particularly among fellow authors and aficionados of weird fiction. His unique style and narrative approach set him apart from other writers of his time. His works have been praised for their ability to evoke a sense of unease and disquietude, exploring the hidden fears and desires lurking beneath the surface of everyday life.
Although Aickman's writing career was relatively short-lived, spanning roughly three decades, his impact on the genre cannot be overstated. He received numerous accolades for his contributions, including the World Fantasy Award for Lifetime Achievement in 1981. Despite this recognition, Aickman's work remained somewhat underappreciated during his lifetime, but his reputation has grown steadily in the years since his death.
Robert Aickman passed away on February 26, 1981, in London, leaving behind a rich legacy of unsettling and enigmatic tales. His stories continue to captivate readers with their haunting atmosphere, intricate subtleties, and exploration of the strange and inexplicable. Aickman's unique vision and distinctive voice ensure his enduring place as one of the most original and influential authors in the realm of supernatural fiction.

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🔒 The Companion by Ramsay Campbell Jun 01, 2023

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Subscriber-only episode

Ramsey Campbell is a British author known for his contributions to the horror genre. Born on January 4, 1946, in Liverpool, England, Campbell began writing at an early age and developed a strong interest in horror fiction. Inspired by authors such as H.P. Lovecraft, Arthur Machen, and Algernon Blackwood, he started crafting his own tales of terror.

Campbell's writing career took off in the late 1960s and early 1970s when he gained recognition as one of the leading voices in modern horror literature. His early works, heavily influenced by Lovecraftian themes, demonstrated his talent for building atmosphere and exploring psychological horrors.

In the 1980s, Campbell's writing underwent a significant shift, moving away from direct supernatural elements and focusing more on psychological suspense and the intricacies of the human mind. He developed a unique style that blended psychological depth with elements of supernatural and cosmic horror.

One of Campbell's most notable contributions to horror literature is his trilogy of novels known as the "Three Births of Daoloth" series. Comprising the novels "The Searching Dead" (2016), "Born to the Dark" (2017), and "The Way of the Worm" (2018), this trilogy explores the occult, cosmic horror, and the impact of the supernatural on the lives of ordinary individuals.

Throughout his career, Campbell has received numerous accolades for his work. He has been awarded the British Fantasy Award several times, including the Lifetime Achievement Award in 2015. He has also received the World Fantasy Award, the Bram Stoker Award, and the International Horror Guild Award, among others.

Beyond his novels, Campbell has also been a prolific writer of short stories. His collections, such as "Demons by Daylight" (1973), "Alone with the Horrors" (1993), and "Ghosts and Grisly Things" (1998), showcase his mastery of the short form and his ability to create unsettling and atmospheric narratives.

In addition to his writing, Campbell has been an influential figure within the horror community. He served as the president of the British Fantasy Society and has been an advocate for the genre, both as a writer and as an editor. He has edited several anthologies, including "New Terrors" (1980) and "Meddling with Ghosts" (2011), which showcase his talent for discovering and promoting emerging horror writers.

Ramsey Campbell's contributions to horror literature have made him a highly respected and influential figure in the genre. His ability to combine psychological depth, atmospheric prose, and supernatural elements has captivated readers for decades. With a career spanning over 50 years, Campbell continues to write and inspire new generations of horror authors, solidifying his place as one of the most significant voices in contemporary horror fiction.

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The House With The Brick-Kiln by E. F. Benson May 25, 2023

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n this classic ghost story by E.F. Benson, two friends rent an idyllic country house for a month of fishing, only to find themselves haunted by a malevolent presence. As the strange occurrences escalate, they begin to uncover the dark secrets of the house and its former occupants. This eerie tale will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Narrated with audiobook quality, this reading of "The House With The Brick-Kiln" is perfect for fans of classic horror and ghost stories. Sit back, relax, and let the haunting tale unfold in your ears.

Hashtags:
#horror #ghoststory #audiobook #classicliterature #EFBenson #hauntedhouse #spooky #creepy #reading #narration #horrorfiction #audiobooks

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Madam Crowl's Ghost by J S Le Fanu May 18, 2023

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Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu was an Irish writer born on August 28, 1814, in Dublin, Ireland. He was the third son of a Protestant family with French origins.

Le Fanu received his early education at Trinity College, Dublin, but left before finishing his degree to pursue a career in journalism. He quickly established himself as a successful writer, publishing stories in various magazines and newspapers.

In the 1840s, Le Fanu began to focus more on fiction writing, and his works began to gain wider recognition. His most famous novel, "Uncle Silas," was published in 1864 and is considered a classic of Victorian Gothic literature. Other notable works include "In a Glass Darkly" and "Carmilla."

Le Fanu's writing style was characterized by a strong sense of atmosphere and suspense, often incorporating supernatural elements. He was known for his ability to create vivid and memorable characters, particularly his strong female protagonists.

Despite his success as a writer, Le Fanu's personal life was marked by tragedy. He lost his wife and infant daughter to childbirth complications, and his health began to decline in the late 1860s. He died on February 7, 1873, at the age of 58, leaving behind a legacy as one of Ireland's most important literary figures.

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🔒 Again by Ramsey Campbell May 14, 2023

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Subscriber-only episode

I have a backlog of members' only episodes. Buzzsprout has only just made this available to me, so in the meantime, for the members only library, go here:
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1MWxXVkUJ4NqHBiVo_YAQrQbBV8ryy8PR?usp=share_link

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The Voice In The Night by William Hope Hodgson May 11, 2023

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This episode features an audiobook reading of William Hope Hodgson's classic horror story, "The Voice in the Night." The story is set on a small sailing vessel in the North Pacific Ocean and centers around a mysterious voice calling out from the darkness.
The audiobook reading is filled with suspense and tension, as the characters encounter strange and unsettling occurrences on a deserted island.

Listeners will be transported to a world of terror and horror as they follow the story to its chilling conclusion.
#TheVoiceInTheNight, #horrorstory, #audiobook, and #WilliamHopeHodgson.

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