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Infinite Black: Tales from the Abyss
In this book, the Infinite Black (IB) is also referred to the machine, machine world, network, or dimension. Whatever the name, the IB is Dan Verkys' version of hell. It is, in essence, a dimension-raiding hell machine; where humans are considered nothing more than binary code entries, a collection of ones and zeros, or used as parts for the hate machine. Some individuals provide more "usable code" than others, and therefore are more beneficial to the network. Humans enter this world by several methods, most commonly by death. However, depending on how they live their lives, they can be taken during dreams or nightmares. More often, however, they are taken through portal snatching. The IB is a living, breathing nightmare-fueled world; where technology and machinery, both old and new, are combined with humans via an assimilation process. This creates a hive-mind machine that produces pure torment and suffering, where everything is interconnected or symbiotic, and controlled by an Artificial Intelligence (AI) overseer known simply as "Mother." Mother presents itself as a softly spoken female voice that resonates throughout the network. A gentle and synthetic voice masks the fact the "Mother" is a demon in digital form. "Mother," is in fact, a tyrant. She is hellbent on the enslavement, assimilation, reconfiguration, and eventual eradication of the human race. In another dimension, the Infinite Black and Mother do indeed exist. These are the stories of the humans who have fallen into her web.
138 pages, Paperback
Published April 14, 2023
6 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews
August 7, 2023
Bibliophilia Templum Review
Infinite Black: Tales from the Abyss is an incredible collection of poetry, prose, and stories based on the dark art of Dan Versky. Jeff Oliver’s impactful and vivid poetry and prose detail the horrors behind Dan’s bold images of the Infinite Black, and Dan himself contributes intense and riveting tales to the collective as well. As a whole, the book is an evocative, beautiful, brutal piece of horror art like no other.
As the synopsis blurb explains, Infinite Black is a place where humans are fuel and components to be harvested. But don’t for a second let my summation of that lull you into thinking there is anything typical about this sci-fi horror. There isn’t. The artwork is mesmerizing. The stories and poems are poignant. The presentation creates a flow that captivates you. It’s riveting and mentally invasive.
To put it simply, the art and artistic concept are incredible, and the stories and poems are fantastic, and it’s an amazing book.
But wait; there’s more.
There is a depth here that cannot, should not be ignored. The brilliantly disturbing artwork and darkly haunting words speak to the direction we as a society are going. This speaks to the dependence on and addiction to the machines and programs that feed us a false sense of self. It speaks to the consequences of giving ourselves over. The symbolisms of reality are the most impactful horrors here.
I could go on and on and never do this book justice. It’s not for the faint of heart; the artwork alone can be jarring. But I do recommend it for discerning readers. Read the Forword by Chris McAuley to prepare yourself. Then read the Introduction because it is really a prologue that sets the stage. Then brace yourself and enter the Infinite Black.
https://bibliophiliatemplum.wordpress.com/2023/08/07/infinite-black/
Infinite Black: Tales from the Abyss is an incredible collection of poetry, prose, and stories based on the dark art of Dan Versky. Jeff Oliver’s impactful and vivid poetry and prose detail the horrors behind Dan’s bold images of the Infinite Black, and Dan himself contributes intense and riveting tales to the collective as well. As a whole, the book is an evocative, beautiful, brutal piece of horror art like no other.
As the synopsis blurb explains, Infinite Black is a place where humans are fuel and components to be harvested. But don’t for a second let my summation of that lull you into thinking there is anything typical about this sci-fi horror. There isn’t. The artwork is mesmerizing. The stories and poems are poignant. The presentation creates a flow that captivates you. It’s riveting and mentally invasive.
To put it simply, the art and artistic concept are incredible, and the stories and poems are fantastic, and it’s an amazing book.
But wait; there’s more.
There is a depth here that cannot, should not be ignored. The brilliantly disturbing artwork and darkly haunting words speak to the direction we as a society are going. This speaks to the dependence on and addiction to the machines and programs that feed us a false sense of self. It speaks to the consequences of giving ourselves over. The symbolisms of reality are the most impactful horrors here.
I could go on and on and never do this book justice. It’s not for the faint of heart; the artwork alone can be jarring. But I do recommend it for discerning readers. Read the Forword by Chris McAuley to prepare yourself. Then read the Introduction because it is really a prologue that sets the stage. Then brace yourself and enter the Infinite Black.
https://bibliophiliatemplum.wordpress.com/2023/08/07/infinite-black/
May 31, 2023
A deep sensory feast of art and verse.
For me reminiscent of the Borg Queen and her assimilation programme, only 100 times darker. Beautiful haunting images and the darkest body horror you can imagine, it's an amazing book for any horror lover.
For me reminiscent of the Borg Queen and her assimilation programme, only 100 times darker. Beautiful haunting images and the darkest body horror you can imagine, it's an amazing book for any horror lover.
April 26, 2023
A Dark collection of poetry and stories. Very interesting and deep. Especially loved the layout and artwork. Give it a read, you won't be disappointed!
July 24, 2023
Do not let this one pass you by....the artwork...the poetry.... out of this world! Loved it!
August 31, 2023
Thank you to the author for providing a review copy.
This book is really cool in concept and grand in scope. Ultimately, it didn't quite hit the mark for me. The real star of the show is the artwork. The poems aren't bad, but the themes were incredibly repetitive. I definitely recommend listening to a soundtrack of neurofunk, industrial, and the blackest metal.
This book is really cool in concept and grand in scope. Ultimately, it didn't quite hit the mark for me. The real star of the show is the artwork. The poems aren't bad, but the themes were incredibly repetitive. I definitely recommend listening to a soundtrack of neurofunk, industrial, and the blackest metal.
Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews