The other Gods by H.P. Lovecraft
This work is a collection of short stories that explore the idea of ancient deities and their influence on human society. The tales are set in various locations around the world, from ancient Egypt to modern-day America, and feature a range of supernatural entities, including gods, demons, and other malevolent beings. The stories often involve themes of decay, corruption, and the decline of civilization, as well as the idea that humanity is not the dominant force on Earth. The gods in these tales are often depicted as being more powerful than humans, and their influence can be seen in various aspects of human culture, from art to politics. Throughout the collection, the author explores the idea that there are forces beyond human understanding at work in the world, and that these forces can have a profound impact on human society. The stories often feature elements of horror, mystery, and science fiction, and are characterized by their dark and atmospheric tone.
By H.P. Lovecraft · First published 1921 · Genre: Horror, Fantasy, Weird Fiction · 2,226 words
First lines
Atop the tallest of earth's peaks dwell the gods of earth, and suffer no man to tell that he hath looked upon them. Lesser peaks they once inhabited; but ever the men from the plains would scale the slopes of rock and snow, driving the gods to higher and higher mountains till now only the last remains. When they left their older peaks they took with them all signs of themselves; save once, it is said, when they left a carven image on the face of the mountain which they called Ngranek.
What this Textopian page supports
The other Gods is listed on Textopian as a short story by H.P. Lovecraft, dated 1921 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: H.P. Lovecraft
- Date: 1921 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Horror, Fantasy, Weird Fiction, Adventure, Mythology
- Length: 2,226 words
- Structure: 1 section, 21 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The other Gods by H.P. Lovecraft
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering The other Gods?
- How does this short story by H.P. Lovecraft fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Horror first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- Hypnos by H. P. Lovecraft
- The Hound by H. P. Lovecraft
- The Outsider by H. P. Lovecraft
- The White Ship by H. P. Lovecraft
- The Tomb by H. P. Lovecraft
- Medusas Coil by H. P. Lovecraft
Genres
- Horror — The narrative explores themes of fear, the unknown, and the terror of encountering ancient, powerful beings.
- Fantasy — The story features mythical gods, a fantastical setting, and elements of magic and the supernatural.
- Weird Fiction — The plot incorporates bizarre and unsettling elements that defy conventional logic and reality.
- Adventure — The characters embark on a perilous journey to scale a mountain in search of the gods.
Tags
Cosmic Horror · Mythos Fiction · Supernatural Fiction · Fantasy · Horror · Occultism · Ancient Deities · Cthulhu Mythos · Sanity-Blasting Terror · Existential Crisis · Mystery · Paranoia