The Horla: Classic of French Literature

by Guy de Maupassant

Guy de Maupassant's 'The Horla' is a gripping psychological horror story that delves into themes of madness, paranoia, and the supernatural. Written in Maupassant's signature naturalistic style, the novella follows the descent into madness of an unnamed protagonist who believes he is being haunted by an invisible being known as the Horla. Maupassant's use of vivid descriptions and detailed psychological insight creates a sense of unease and tension throughout the narrative, leading readers to question the protagonist's sanity and the existence of the supernatural entity. Set in late 19th-century France, 'The Horla' reflects the growing interest in psychological exploration and the limitations of human knowledge during the time period. Guy de Maupassant, a prominent French writer known for his mastery of the short story form, drew inspiration from his personal struggles with mental health and existential crises to craft this haunting tale. Readers interested in psychological horror, French literature, and the exploration of human consciousness will find 'The Horla' to be a thought-provoking and unsettling read.

Genres: Horror, Gothic

42 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 13, 2022

About the author

Henri René Albert Guy de Maupassant was a popular 19th-century French writer. He is one of the fathers of the modern short story. A protege of Flaubert, Maupassant's short stories are characterized by their economy of style and their efficient effortless dénouement. He also wrote six short novels. A number of his stories often denote the futility of war and the innocent civilians who get crushed in it - many are set during the Franco-Prussian War of the 1870s.

Reviews

[Euan · Rating 5 out of 5]

We praise Project Gutenberg in this house.

A much better foundational horror short story/novella than many others I've read (I'm looking at you, The Wendigo). I heard of as an influence on Call of Cthulhu, although I like it better to be honest.

Although I've always thought myself unable to read in a car, for some reason I can on my phone. So, on the rare occasion I'm being driven by someone else, Project Gutenberg lets me get some of my SFF foundations ticked off.

[Victor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Superb!

[kiaraApple · Rating 5 out of 5]

a brain on fire at the centre of things