"The Case of Charles Dexter Ward" is a short novel by H. P. Lovecraft, written in early 1927. The novel, set in 1928, describes how Charles Dexter Ward becomes obsessed with his distant ancestor, Joseph Curwen, an alleged wizard with unsavory habits. Chapters: 0:00:00 - Opening Credits 0:00:50 - I. A Result and a Prologue 0:26:54 - II. An Antecedent and a Horror 1:44:20 - III. A Search and an Evocation 2:50:40 - IV. A Mutation and a Madness 3:50:20 - V. A Nightmare and a Cataclysm 5:20:34 - Closing Credits Bandcamp link: horrorbabble.bandcamp.com/album/the-case-of-charles-dexter-ward Narrated by Ian Gordon for HorrorBabble Music and production by Ian Gordon Support us on Bandcamp or Patreon: horrorbabble.bandcamp.com www.patreon.com/horrorbabble HorrorBabble MERCH: teespring.com/stores/horrorbabble-merch Search HORRORBABBLE to find us on: AUDIBLE / ITUNES / SPOTIFY Home: www.horrorbabble.com Rue Morgue: www.rue-morgue.com Social Media: facebook.com/HorrorBabble instagram.com/horrorbabble twitter.com/HorrorBabble This is an ORIGINAL HorrorBabble Production.
Blew my mind. Amazing. Just finding Lovecraft again for the second time in my life and your narrative makes it all new again. Superb quality, thank you.
So im a night shift custodian. Being alone in an elementary school from 8 pm to 5 am really adds to the suspense of these stories. Thank you for these! I actually have a compilation of most of Lovecraft's wotk but i have adhd and its hard for me to focus. But these audiobooks really helped me get through much of Lovecraft's longer stories. Keep up the good work!
I have ADHD too and have found listening to unabridged audios of the novel I'm reading help me with the comprehension of the subject. If I try to read novels like "Study in Scarlet," "2000 Leagues under the Sea," and even "Treasure Island," though interesting, put me to sleep, or I unconsciously skip over parts that feel dull but hold details I later find important. 😅 thank goodness my brother got a subscription for the audible app for us and mom. I just wish he would get a few books I put on the wish list.
A five hour example of Horror Babble being a cut above anything like it on this platform! Thank the gods for people like this team.... I really believe channels like this help prevent the entirety of human culture from becoming summarized and consumed in three minutes or less. Bravo Ian.
There's only one God and no need to thank him for such insignificant things. Instead thank him for your hearing, your sight, your ability to walk, and be free. Yw
Bought this for a dime at a thrift store when I was perhaps ten years old, my first taste of HPL. (I still remember the characteristic smell of that place, where I found so many of the books I came to treasure.) I've revisited it so many times since then that I'm not really capable of any sort of critical appraisal. Hearing Ian's narration has breathed new life into it for me, for which I'm immensely grateful. This and ATMOM are the ones I most appreciate, perhaps because Lovecraft didn't feel pressed to condense them to short-story length to fit into an issue of Weird Tales. I've sometimes felt that some of the shorter tales are bursting at the seams as he strives to keep the word-count down. This is especially true of The Shadow Out of Time and a couple of others. My thanks go out to Ian for his subtle and nuanced readings.
For me, you are hands down the best narrator of Lovecraft's work. Even when I'm joking with a friend about this or that about Lovecraft's style, I do it in your narrating style. You bring out so much in the writing. I especially love how you read the more dated bits about society scandals or genealogical tidbits or lines like "the celebrated wit". You do such a great job with the whole of the text and truly bring it to life.
Amazing work, sir. Sometimes I wonder why I'm a weirdo listening to creepy horror on your channel. Then I realise it's only because HP Lovecraft is a literary genius, and because of your work I'm able to soo easily digest it. Thank you, sincerely.
Every time I listen to this I pick up on new details I missed through the previous times. I know Lovecraft liked The Color out of Space l, but I think this is his best, most detailed work.
To be honest it's quite a frustrating piece of work. Except for the Curwin past sequence and the catacomb sequence it offers very little in terms of mystery or cosmic horror. That's why Lovecraft wasn't particularly happy about it. Full of random details but doesn't compare to Call of Cthulhu, Innsmouth or Colour out of space. Or the wildly imaginative Shadow out of time or even the Mountains of madness Personally only Ian's narration made me stick with it. But Dreams in the Witch House is a good one.
@@charumathis5029 Nearly all the cosmic horror is born from implication or omission. For all we know, Curwen _did_ represent a threat to the degree Ward described, but we're left with too little information one way or the other. But yeah, this is clearly one of HPL's more mainstream/"down to Earth" works. Still, he did his homework and displays considerable knowledge about medieval alchemy (though Borellus _did not_ actually write anything about essential salts or necromancy). If anything, it feels like an excuse for HPL to indulge his antiquarianism and penchant for history.
Yeah I just started it up again. I know I've listened to the whole thing twice and no telling how many times I've fell asleep half way thru. This and horroe from the mound are my 2 favorites
Ian, I'm absolutely blown away by how you bring these stories to life. Your cadence, voice and inflection are second to none. Sincere thanks for your outstanding work in bringing these classics into the mainstream.
I listen to this again and again. It is great to have such a LONG reading to have as company during long work passes. Your voice has become one's friend.
Thank you for this. I've been an avid HPL fan since I discovered his work in the 80s from a quote from "The Call Of Cthulhu" on an Iron Maiden album cover. Ironic I'd never sought him out before then since I was already a fan of Poe, R. E. Howard, (Conan creator and good friend of HPL), Moorcock (Elric, Hawkmoon), E.R.Burroughs, (Tarzan), King and countless others. Ive tried to figure out which of HPL's works are my favorite but that has proven impossible. I do know that this one is definitely top three. One of the creepiest stories ever written by anyone. It's pretty difficult for me to honestly get the heebs, but this story gets me goosy every time. Heebs achieved. Thanks again.
I cant even begin to describe how much these stories help me through my long night shifts. I normally dont like audio books. I prefer to have the actual physical copy in my hands. However, I've always found lovecrafts flowery language hard to slog through sometimes. Dont get me wrong, I love the man's work. He was an absolute veritable literary genius of cyclopean proportions (dang it his writing is rubbing off on me). Listening to it is so much better though. And honestly, Ian one of the best narrators i have ever found on youtube (second only to Wayne June). In conclusion, before I accidentally turn a youtube comment into a five paragraph essay, great work, and thank you so darn much for helping me keep sane (I am fully aware of the intense irony in that statement)
Mr. Gordon really delivering on these occult references and letters. 0:59 Borellus on Essential Salts. 35:39 Merrick recalls Curwen's library. 38:11 Merrick sees Curwen's copy of Borellus. 1:18:34 Orne's Letter to Curwen. 1:20:23 Unsigned Letter (Probably Hutchinson to Curwen) 1:35:57 Voice From The Sky. 1:51:25 Curwen's Letter to Orne. 2:17:57 Sample of Curwen's Diary 2:40:00 Mrs. Ward Overhears Charles' Incantation. 2:41:57 Mrs. Ward Overhears Charles Answered. 3:08:05 Charles' Letter To Dr. Willet. 3:19:14 Dr. Willet Visits "Charles". 3:40:24 "Simon" Orne's Letter To "Dr. Alan". 4:06:06 Dr. Willet Recognizes The Dragonhead and Dragontail Formulae. 4:15:44 Sample Of Letter From Orne To Curwen. 4:26:49 Sample Letter, Hutchison to "Dr. Alan".
I listen to these once in bed and trying to sleep. Gets rough after a few nights because I never remember where I was at in story when I konked out. That has me going back to a point I remember and go over same part again lol. Takes me forever to get thru a longer one. Don't get me wrong.. I love the longer videos but just need to figure out how to stop it when I fall asleep. Thx all.
"It was twilight, and Charles Dexter Ward had come Home." This is one of my all-time favorite sentences ever written. I don't know why, but this one just Does it for me. Gg, HPL and gg, HorrorBabble.
I havent read my favorite author in years and I recently stumbled across your recordings. You have breathed new life into my enthusiasm. Your voice and recording style is amazing!!!
HP Lovecraft is one of my fav authors. I was so excited when I saw that you narrated this great story!!! Thank you!! You do such a great job with his stories
I really love this story, this and the house in the mist are probably my favorites of Lovecraft. I'm completely addicted to Ian Gordon's narration as well. Thank you!
I'm a huge fan of both you and Lovecraft; and I have an observation: one of J.C.'s fellow warlocks was the ancestor of the narrator/main character of Notebook Found in a Deserted House. Willie Osborn was the descendant of the Osborn named repeatedly as one of J.C.'s fellow warlocks. So, there is a tie-in with Robert Bloch's Notebook Found in a Deserted House. I LOVE THOSE EASTER EGGS AND TIE-INS.
That is something that Lovecraft encouraged and cultivated. "The Haunter of the Dark" was a tribute to, or in honor of Robert Bloch; the protagonist of the story (The Haunter of the Dark) is named Robert Blake.
A real love letter to Providence as Lovecraft knew it and dreamed of it to be, as well as his own architectural fascination. Very well told too! I cant imagine the time and editing that these long ones take. They make days of clerical work better for me.
Inspired what in your life? Because speaking for myself, I've done gene sequencing work, and can't help thinking of "essential salts" from time to time during the process.
It got me into studying my family as well as a life long study of the occult which has resulted in publishing 20 books on it so far with more to come. @@Xbalanque84
Thank again Ian absolutely brilliant and I mean that so much You have mellowed over the best part of the last decade so naturally I don't want to say fine wine but I have Who does the music it's superb ❤All the very best
I’ve just started narrating audiobooks myself (alongside my regular radio job). I’ve been listening to many of your narrations and you so inspire me with your even flow and ability to truly engage the listener. You really are the best. Thank you so much. Keep up the great work.
I live near Providence, RI. I've always been fascinated by all things Lovecraft. Local ghost tours feature some of his haunts (pun intended). His stories are perfect for reading aloud, and you do a great job of keeping me entertained while I'm hunkered down at home during these long, sad days, weeks, probably months of the Covid-19 pandemic. Thank you so much. Stay safe and well.
I love this story! The Tillinghast and Waite names are in this story as well...hmmmm Such a good rendition of this story. It is excellent! This is such a rich and detailed story. Fantastic job! The Dr. Willett is awesome! He is so resolute, thorough, and practices excellent critical thinking. I love how his research allows him to figure it all out. He reminds me of a modern day Paladin. I love how this story combs through all the history of Charles Dexter Ward and Joseph Curwen. Fantastic job, Ian.
🌻 🎈 Once again you've BLOWN ME AWAY w/ur reading...!! I'll however have to finish this one tomorrow as U fell asleep !!! Lol.... 😋 One of thee BEST nights of sleep I've had since I began listening to you !! 😘 😊 😇 THANX!!
Something about this story feels so comforting, and many others by H. P. have the same effect on me. I guess there's something about ancient places, ancestral secrets and magic that is just very satisfying to my mind. I come back to listen to this one quite often and I appreciate your excellent reading of it. 🖤✨️
My second favorite, if only because of Lovecraft's tendency to hint so bluntly that the latter half of the book becomes unnecessary. His best work is IMO Dream-Quest for Unknown Kadath that is almost completely free from such heavy-handed foreshadowing, as well as featuring a protagonist who is an arch-dreamer instead of a complete wuss ready to run away screeching at the slightest provocation.
one of my all time favorite Lovecraft stories. IMHO, one of his truly most terrifying. The section where Willet Traverses through Curwen's catacombs to find the things in the pits gave me chills the first time I read it.
I love your work so much Ian! Since becoming a Lovecraft fan I've devoured audiobooks and readings and since discovering you and Horrorbabble you've become my favourite narrator. I'm so keen to listen to this new reading; I haven't heard it yet, and used to think Mountains of Madness was Lovecrafts longest! Keep up the good work 😄
Wow! Just listened to this for the first time. Great story but it wouldn't be the same without all the subtle stuff put into the production of the recording! Thanks, Ian! This will be a yearly listen for me now(likely in the Fall)
I love the way Lovecraft's stories take place in the 1920's, always mentioning specific years. I always wonder how he felt about the popular music and flapper styles of the time.
Man, I always disliked reading growing up, even when I was given the luxury of "following along". I don't know whether it's the Ian's voice, or lovecraft's work himself (let's be real, it's probably a combination of both), but I have been binging the narration of Lovecraft's work on this channel like crazy lately! In my life, I have never been so inclined to read, as of now! Especially when I have time to sit down and read along while listening to such a pleasant voice! Mad props to you for encouraging and helping everyone to consume the genius works of H.P. Lovecraft!
Just stumbled onto this. Been reading this story for the first time today and I was so engrossed. I almost couldn’t put it down but, sadly, I had dishes to do and dinner to cook. I figured why not look up someone reading it and damn... your voice. I admit I was having a bit o’trouble with the old letters part cause my mind was not putting in together well but, hearing it, I get it now.
So I'm listening to this at work through my phone speaker scrubbing floors minding my own business and someone stopped me and said "man some people just have that voice you know that just makes you want to listen to them "
I read the works of H.P. Lovecraft, while in college. He is still my all time favorite author! It's a shame he only lived to be 46. My 2 favorite living authors are Stephen King & Peter Straub! Ghost Story, by Peter Straub is my favorite novel overall! Getting back to The Case of Charles Dexter Ward, it is likely my favorite Lovecraft work. I wondered who # 118 could have been, after I first read the short novel. About 4 years later, a guy I knew from high school told me-Merlin!!
This is such a good story, with great narration. I remember reading this tale many years ago in a compilation of Lovecraft, and liking it very much, but if you had told me the general premisses beforehand I'm not sure it would have sounded good. Lovecraft had quite a few stories which were "corney", even by the standars of his own time, but which he managed to make something interesting out of.
Love this story, especially when one of your ancestors (the Whipples) was used as a basis for one of the characters who led the Joseph Curwen’s farm raid.
I return to this recording again and again. This fantastic tale cannot be better narrated. The superlative may also be said of production and soundscape. Full marks everyone at HB!
I always loved this one. It feels more grounded than evil colors or space squids. If any Lovecraft story could be adapted to a visual medium without losing core elements it's probably this one.
I was going ask how in the hell 100 humans did not like this excellent production. Then I remembered anytime anything by Lovecraft is posted the PC and SJ word/feelings police have to have a fit. Excellent job Ian
Thank you so much for making all these stories come to life. You do an amazing job. Hearing you narrate this makes me wonder if you would consider narrating or performing a dramatic adaptation of "The Island of Doctor Moreau"?
I keep starting this at night but I end up falling to sleep and having creepy vivid dreams (best advice is to listen to lovecraft when you have a fever, it's a crazy experience). Now I'm finally starting it in the day time so I can actually pay attention to the story.
i had the most fucked up dreams in my life after falling asleep to lovecraft. i can't even be upset. never found someone who communicates the feeling of fear so perfectly (except for maybe Kubrick in The Shining)
Funny how I always come back to certain stories of HPL. I don't think many people know that the spells used by Ward to bring back Curwen from the grave, HPL borrowed from Eliphas Levi, Dogma and Ritual of High Magic.
This is the last H.P lovecraft masterpiece I am still finishing the listening too. Please tell H.P Lovecraft his more masterpieces. Thanks to HorrorBabble I lovex the complete cthulu mythos the mound, the complete xream cycle. Please tell me theres another masterpeice you will upload soon???
"The Case of Charles Dexter Ward" is a short novel by H. P. Lovecraft, written in early 1927. The novel, set in 1928, describes how Charles Dexter Ward becomes obsessed with his distant ancestor, Joseph Curwen, an alleged wizard with unsavory habits.
Chapters:
0:00:00 - Opening Credits
0:00:50 - I. A Result and a Prologue
0:26:54 - II. An Antecedent and a Horror
1:44:20 - III. A Search and an Evocation
2:50:40 - IV. A Mutation and a Madness
3:50:20 - V. A Nightmare and a Cataclysm
5:20:34 - Closing Credits
Bandcamp link: horrorbabble.bandcamp.com/album/the-case-of-charles-dexter-ward
Narrated by Ian Gordon for HorrorBabble
Music and production by Ian Gordon
Support us on Bandcamp or Patreon:
horrorbabble.bandcamp.com
www.patreon.com/horrorbabble
HorrorBabble MERCH:
teespring.com/stores/horrorbabble-merch
Search HORRORBABBLE to find us on:
AUDIBLE / ITUNES / SPOTIFY
Home: www.horrorbabble.com
Rue Morgue: www.rue-morgue.com
Social Media:
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instagram.com/horrorbabble
twitter.com/HorrorBabble
This is an ORIGINAL HorrorBabble Production.
"Short novel"
*looks at the audiobook runtime*
Holy smokes
P
Blew my mind. Amazing. Just finding Lovecraft again for the second time in my life and your narrative makes it all new again. Superb quality, thank you.
So im a night shift custodian. Being alone in an elementary school from 8 pm to 5 am really adds to the suspense of these stories. Thank you for these! I actually have a compilation of most of Lovecraft's wotk but i have adhd and its hard for me to focus. But these audiobooks really helped me get through much of Lovecraft's longer stories. Keep up the good work!
As a night worker also, these are absolutely perfect for working nights
The powders marked CASTODES!?
Your crazy lmfao my head would be on a swivel listening to these
I understand. I have ADHD too. Really glad these audiobooks exist.
I have ADHD too and have found listening to unabridged audios of the novel I'm reading help me with the comprehension of the subject. If I try to read novels like "Study in Scarlet," "2000 Leagues under the Sea," and even "Treasure Island," though interesting, put me to sleep, or I unconsciously skip over parts that feel dull but hold details I later find important. 😅 thank goodness my brother got a subscription for the audible app for us and mom. I just wish he would get a few books I put on the wish list.
A five hour example of Horror Babble being a cut above anything like it on this platform! Thank the gods for people like this team....
I really believe channels like this help prevent the entirety of human culture from becoming summarized and consumed in three minutes or less.
Bravo Ian.
There's only one God and no need to thank him for such insignificant things. Instead thank him for your hearing, your sight, your ability to walk, and be free. Yw
@@realcrazyeight Cthulhu grew tired of & ate your god years ago. Xx
Bought this for a dime at a thrift store when I was perhaps ten years old, my first taste of HPL. (I still remember the characteristic smell of that place, where I found so many of the books I came to treasure.) I've revisited it so many times since then that I'm not really capable of any sort of critical appraisal. Hearing Ian's narration has breathed new life into it for me, for which I'm immensely grateful. This and ATMOM are the ones I most appreciate, perhaps because Lovecraft didn't feel pressed to condense them to short-story length to fit into an issue of Weird Tales. I've sometimes felt that some of the shorter tales are bursting at the seams as he strives to keep the word-count down. This is especially true of The Shadow Out of Time and a couple of others. My thanks go out to Ian for his subtle and nuanced readings.
For me, you are hands down the best narrator of Lovecraft's work. Even when I'm joking with a friend about this or that about Lovecraft's style, I do it in your narrating style. You bring out so much in the writing. I especially love how you read the more dated bits about society scandals or genealogical tidbits or lines like "the celebrated wit". You do such a great job with the whole of the text and truly bring it to life.
Agreed, I feel the same way about his talents of narration.
Amazing work, sir. Sometimes I wonder why I'm a weirdo listening to creepy horror on your channel. Then I realise it's only because HP Lovecraft is a literary genius, and because of your work I'm able to soo easily digest it. Thank you, sincerely.
Oh I heartily agree with you
Ian shows all others how it is done. The Gold Standard.
Agreed, but the work of Lovecraft helps for a great story as well!
Every time I listen to this I pick up on new details I missed through the previous times. I know Lovecraft liked The Color out of Space l, but I think this is his best, most detailed work.
The Dreams in the Witch House is underrated as well.
To be honest it's quite a frustrating piece of work. Except for the Curwin past sequence and the catacomb sequence it offers very little in terms of mystery or cosmic horror. That's why Lovecraft wasn't particularly happy about it.
Full of random details but
doesn't compare to Call of Cthulhu, Innsmouth or Colour out of space.
Or the wildly imaginative Shadow out of time or even the Mountains of madness
Personally only Ian's narration made me stick with it.
But Dreams in the Witch House is a good one.
@@charumathis5029
Nearly all the cosmic horror is born from implication or omission. For all we know, Curwen _did_ represent a threat to the degree Ward described, but we're left with too little information one way or the other.
But yeah, this is clearly one of HPL's more mainstream/"down to Earth" works. Still, he did his homework and displays considerable knowledge about medieval alchemy (though Borellus _did not_ actually write anything about essential salts or necromancy). If anything, it feels like an excuse for HPL to indulge his antiquarianism and penchant for history.
Yeah I just started it up again. I know I've listened to the whole thing twice and no telling how many times I've fell asleep half way thru. This and horroe from the mound are my 2 favorites
Yeah and also dreams in the witch house. Someone else reminded me of it in the replies
Ian, I'm absolutely blown away by how you bring these stories to life. Your cadence, voice and inflection are second to none. Sincere thanks for your outstanding work in bringing these classics into the mainstream.
This convinced me to become a patreon. Best channel on RUclips for audiobooks by far!
Tanner - I appreciate that very much!
I listen to this again and again. It is great to have such a LONG reading to have as company during long work passes. Your voice has become one's friend.
Thank you for this. I've been an avid HPL fan since I discovered his work in the 80s from a quote from "The Call Of Cthulhu" on an Iron Maiden album cover. Ironic I'd never sought him out before then since I was already a fan of Poe, R. E. Howard, (Conan creator and good friend of HPL), Moorcock (Elric, Hawkmoon), E.R.Burroughs, (Tarzan), King and countless others.
Ive tried to figure out which of HPL's works are my favorite but that has proven impossible. I do know that this one is definitely top three. One of the creepiest stories ever written by anyone. It's pretty difficult for me to honestly get the heebs, but this story gets me goosy every time. Heebs achieved.
Thanks again.
Ian the man! 😌👏 Well done per usual! So many layers to this one with all the diff characters. A HorrorBabble-Lovecraft masterpiece!🏆
I cant even begin to describe how much these stories help me through my long night shifts. I normally dont like audio books. I prefer to have the actual physical copy in my hands. However, I've always found lovecrafts flowery language hard to slog through sometimes. Dont get me wrong, I love the man's work. He was an absolute veritable literary genius of cyclopean proportions (dang it his writing is rubbing off on me). Listening to it is so much better though. And honestly, Ian one of the best narrators i have ever found on youtube (second only to Wayne June). In conclusion, before I accidentally turn a youtube comment into a five paragraph essay, great work, and thank you so darn much for helping me keep sane (I am fully aware of the intense irony in that statement)
CAS is better :P
Mr. Gordon really delivering on these occult references and letters.
0:59 Borellus on Essential Salts.
35:39 Merrick recalls Curwen's library.
38:11 Merrick sees Curwen's copy of Borellus.
1:18:34 Orne's Letter to Curwen.
1:20:23 Unsigned Letter (Probably Hutchinson to Curwen)
1:35:57 Voice From The Sky.
1:51:25 Curwen's Letter to Orne.
2:17:57 Sample of Curwen's Diary
2:40:00 Mrs. Ward Overhears Charles' Incantation.
2:41:57 Mrs. Ward Overhears Charles Answered.
3:08:05 Charles' Letter To Dr. Willet.
3:19:14 Dr. Willet Visits "Charles".
3:40:24 "Simon" Orne's Letter To "Dr. Alan".
4:06:06 Dr. Willet Recognizes The Dragonhead and Dragontail Formulae.
4:15:44 Sample Of Letter From Orne To Curwen.
4:26:49 Sample Letter, Hutchison to "Dr. Alan".
that piano, the intro , the narrator... perfection
I listen to these once in bed and trying to sleep. Gets rough after a few nights because I never remember where I was at in story when I konked out. That has me going back to a point I remember and go over same part again lol. Takes me forever to get thru a longer one. Don't get me wrong.. I love the longer videos but just need to figure out how to stop it when I fall asleep. Thx all.
"It was twilight, and Charles Dexter Ward had come Home."
This is one of my all-time favorite sentences ever written. I don't know why, but this one just Does it for me. Gg, HPL and gg, HorrorBabble.
xThe_noJx yeah, it’s my favorite line too.
I forget how it goes but the last sentence or two in pickman’s model was my favorite of HPL because it really set in the fear at the end
I havent read my favorite author in years and I recently stumbled across your recordings. You have breathed new life into my enthusiasm. Your voice and recording style is amazing!!!
Ian's rendition of this tale has truly given it life so as to make it worth listening to repeatedly
Superb reading of one of my favourite Locecraft stories. Thank you, I loved every minute of it.
HP Lovecraft is one of my fav authors. I was so excited when I saw that you narrated this great story!!! Thank you!! You do such a great job with his stories
This is my favourite cosmic horror story of all time, great job voice acting
Mine too!
I really love this story, this and the house in the mist are probably my favorites of Lovecraft. I'm completely addicted to Ian Gordon's narration as well. Thank you!
the house in the mist is special imo
I'm a huge fan of both you and Lovecraft; and I have an observation: one of J.C.'s fellow warlocks was the ancestor of the narrator/main character of Notebook Found in a Deserted House. Willie Osborn was the descendant of the Osborn named repeatedly as one of J.C.'s fellow warlocks. So, there is a tie-in with Robert Bloch's Notebook Found in a Deserted House. I LOVE THOSE EASTER EGGS AND TIE-INS.
That is something that Lovecraft encouraged and cultivated. "The Haunter of the Dark" was a tribute to, or in honor of Robert Bloch; the protagonist of the story (The Haunter of the Dark) is named Robert Blake.
Relistening to this masterpiece (of composition as well as production) for the second time now. Easily one of Lovecraft's best stories!
A real love letter to Providence as Lovecraft knew it and dreamed of it to be, as well as his own architectural fascination.
Very well told too! I cant imagine the time and editing that these long ones take. They make days of clerical work better for me.
For me, the best Lovecraft tale. This novel inspired so much in my life. This is a fine telling of the story.
Yep!
Inspired what in your life? Because speaking for myself, I've done gene sequencing work, and can't help thinking of "essential salts" from time to time during the process.
It got me into studying my family as well as a life long study of the occult which has resulted in publishing 20 books on it so far with more to come. @@Xbalanque84
@@Xbalanque84it inspired me too, been a necromancer ever since
Thank again Ian absolutely brilliant and I mean that so much You have mellowed over the best part of the last decade so naturally I don't want to say fine wine but I have
Who does the music it's superb ❤All the very best
I’ve just started narrating audiobooks myself (alongside my regular radio job). I’ve been listening to many of your narrations and you so inspire me with your even flow and ability to truly engage the listener. You really are the best. Thank you so much. Keep up the great work.
Thank you, Liz! All the best with your endeavours. :) Ian
Bravo! Once again the master reads a masterpiece. I truly can not get enough Horrorbabble.
I live near Providence, RI. I've always been fascinated by all things Lovecraft. Local ghost tours feature some of his haunts (pun intended). His stories are perfect for reading aloud, and you do a great job of keeping me entertained while I'm hunkered down at home during these long, sad days, weeks, probably months of the Covid-19 pandemic. Thank you so much. Stay safe and well.
I love this story!
The Tillinghast and Waite names are in this story as well...hmmmm
Such a good rendition of this story. It is excellent! This is such a rich and detailed story. Fantastic job!
The Dr. Willett is awesome! He is so resolute, thorough, and practices excellent critical thinking. I love how his research allows him to figure it all out. He reminds me of a modern day Paladin.
I love how this story combs through all the history of Charles Dexter Ward and Joseph Curwen.
Fantastic job, Ian.
A great reading of my all-time favorite Lovecraft story, and movie as The Resurrected. Good job, Ian.
I just finished listening to this for at least the fourth time, and it never, ever gets old!
I'm so relieved that the nice couple was compensated for the destruction of their wallpaper!
One of my favorites HPL tales. Many thanks.
I love to listen many times to get what I might have missed before, it never gets old. Thank you Ian and Jen.
🌻 🎈 Once again you've BLOWN ME AWAY w/ur reading...!! I'll however have to finish this one tomorrow as U fell asleep !!! Lol.... 😋 One of thee BEST nights of sleep I've had since I began listening to you !! 😘 😊 😇 THANX!!
Something about this story feels so comforting, and many others by H. P. have the same effect on me. I guess there's something about ancient places, ancestral secrets and magic that is just very satisfying to my mind. I come back to listen to this one quite often and I appreciate your excellent reading of it. 🖤✨️
This is my favorite Lovecraft story! Thank you!
My second favorite, if only because of Lovecraft's tendency to hint so bluntly that the latter half of the book becomes unnecessary. His best work is IMO Dream-Quest for Unknown Kadath that is almost completely free from such heavy-handed foreshadowing, as well as featuring a protagonist who is an arch-dreamer instead of a complete wuss ready to run away screeching at the slightest provocation.
I really want to say mine as well but damn Herbert West and bloody Dreamquest are both contenders.
Wow! Talk about commitment to the craft! Charles Dexter Ward is one of Lovecraft's longest! Good show, old man!
I felt overwhelming pity for the poor half-formed ghouls trapped deep in the pits of Curwen's dungeon
At least they don’t need food
This is a fantastic narration of one of my favourite Lovecraft stories, thanks so much .😊😊😊
It's been quiet a while since I was last serenaded by Horrorbabble. I missed you guys!!!🤗
Thank you for such great narration of a great story. That was very incredible, I enjoyed it from first to last.
Stellar job, as always. Wish more people listened!
Priceless content here........I'm hooked, I need a nightly fix now. Lovecraft is(still) some "next-level" stuff.
one of my all time favorite Lovecraft stories. IMHO, one of his truly most terrifying. The section where Willet Traverses through Curwen's catacombs to find the things in the pits gave me chills the first time I read it.
I love your work so much Ian! Since becoming a Lovecraft fan I've devoured audiobooks and readings and since discovering you and Horrorbabble you've become my favourite narrator. I'm so keen to listen to this new reading; I haven't heard it yet, and used to think Mountains of Madness was Lovecrafts longest! Keep up the good work 😄
Thanks for the kind words Danny! Great to hear from you. This is indeed a long one, but it's a superb story! Thanks again, Ian
Love the full readings, keep up the good work, Ian!
I find myself continually coming back to Charles Dexter Ward as may have already been said there is depth to CDW. Take care in your investigation.
Mr. Gordon, your voice and music are golden. Just love it.
Thank you Marie! Ian
Wow! Just listened to this for the first time. Great story but it wouldn't be the same without all the subtle stuff put into the production of the recording! Thanks, Ian! This will be a yearly listen for me now(likely in the Fall)
I love the way Lovecraft's stories take place in the 1920's, always mentioning specific years. I always wonder how he felt about the popular music and flapper styles of the time.
I am certain he would have hated jazz and all other forms of African American music.
He definitely did not care for it.
My favourite hp Lovecraft reading thank you Ian and Jennifer
Joseph Curwen put his mongrel seamen to diverse uses indeed!
Listening finally. HPL is my favorite author and this is his masterpiece. And you have rendered it masterly!
GREAT READING!! Well done Mr.Gordon.
I enjoyed this very much! Thanks to HorrorBabble for a job well done.
Man, I always disliked reading growing up, even when I was given the luxury of "following along". I don't know whether it's the Ian's voice, or lovecraft's work himself (let's be real, it's probably a combination of both), but I have been binging the narration of Lovecraft's work on this channel like crazy lately! In my life, I have never been so inclined to read, as of now! Especially when I have time to sit down and read along while listening to such a pleasant voice! Mad props to you for encouraging and helping everyone to consume the genius works of H.P. Lovecraft!
It's very simple. Lovecraft is literary opium. The more you smoke, the more you want. Very Lovecraftian!
Just stumbled onto this. Been reading this story for the first time today and I was so engrossed. I almost couldn’t put it down but, sadly, I had dishes to do and dinner to cook. I figured why not look up someone reading it and damn... your voice. I admit I was having a bit o’trouble with the old letters part cause my mind was not putting in together well but, hearing it, I get it now.
To be honest, *I* had trouble with the letters too!
So I'm listening to this at work through my phone speaker scrubbing floors minding my own business and someone stopped me and said "man some people just have that voice you know that just makes you want to listen to them "
Very nice reading!! This story is amazing!!
Thank you! I'm glad you enjoyed it. :) Ian
I read the works of H.P. Lovecraft, while in college. He is still my all time favorite author! It's a shame he only lived to be 46. My 2 favorite living authors are Stephen King & Peter Straub! Ghost Story, by Peter Straub is my favorite novel overall! Getting back to The Case of Charles Dexter Ward, it is likely my favorite Lovecraft work. I wondered who # 118 could have been, after I first read the short novel. About 4 years later, a guy I knew from high school told me-Merlin!!
This is such a good story, with great narration. I remember reading this tale many years ago in a compilation of Lovecraft, and liking it very much, but if you had told me the general premisses beforehand I'm not sure it would have sounded good. Lovecraft had quite a few stories which were "corney", even by the standars of his own time, but which he managed to make something interesting out of.
Fact: The Essential Salts mentioned by Mr. Lovecraft gave a certain Nile song by that name the definition of what Natron is.
One of your greatest performances, Mr Gordon!
Great reading, thank you!
This is exquisite. My third or fourth full listen
omega same!
A really excellent reading. Thank you
Thank you Wilbur!
fab reading as always xxx
Really enjoyed this, thank you!
Just had my second listen to this brilliant tale, and I'm already looking forward to my third 🖤
Love this story, especially when one of your ancestors (the Whipples) was used as a basis for one of the characters who led the Joseph Curwen’s farm raid.
Well, that's nice to know that descendants of the old families are still there. I had seen a portrait of Abraham Whipple as well of the Browns.
His grandfather was a Whipple as well - so you may be distantly related!
The 56 people who gave this a thumbs down are going to turn into a bluish-grey dust
Ha!
Cheers mate
I was thinking a malodorous red mist
Ehhh
I don't think that's how that form of necromancy works...
Probably my favorite Lovecraft story. Thanks!
I return to this recording again and again. This fantastic tale cannot be better narrated. The superlative may also be said of production and soundscape. Full marks everyone at HB!
My favorite HPL story and I look forward to hearing your rendition.
become absolutely hooked over the past few days, perfect bedtime listening too
Fantastic work, will definitely try and support your patreon asap =)
Thank you Phil, that would be absolutely fantastic. All the best to you! Ian
I always loved this one. It feels more grounded than evil colors or space squids. If any Lovecraft story could be adapted to a visual medium without losing core elements it's probably this one.
I love your channel.
Timeless jewels. Thank you
Masterful storytelling, entertaining from beginning to end.
Thanks Michael - much appreciated! Ian
I was going ask how in the hell 100 humans did not like this excellent production. Then I remembered anytime anything by Lovecraft is posted the PC and SJ word/feelings police have to have a fit. Excellent job Ian
The 100 dislikes were the raiders of the Curwen farm, outraged that all their efforts to supress his existence failed
No one will ever equal HP Lovecraft. No one
I love this story
Gonna save this till bedtime & listen in full !! ❤❤❤❤❤😍😍😍😍
Let us know how it goes KB! :) Ian
I do the same thing every night
@@michaeldelapena6250 me too...0340 here!
The superstition in the days of Curwen was unbelievable. As was showen in the Salem witch trials. I still think the church had a lot to do with that.🤔
Although i really like Wayne June´s voice and style of reading, this is very good too. Thanks!
Thank you so much for making all these stories come to life. You do an amazing job.
Hearing you narrate this makes me wonder if you would consider narrating or performing a dramatic adaptation of "The Island of Doctor Moreau"?
Thanks Davida! Feel free to send any suggestions via our website: www.horrorbabble.com/contact
Bye far his best story along with the Thing on the Door Step
Luv ur vids keep em comin :D
I keep starting this at night but I end up falling to sleep and having creepy vivid dreams (best advice is to listen to lovecraft when you have a fever, it's a crazy experience). Now I'm finally starting it in the day time so I can actually pay attention to the story.
i had the most fucked up dreams in my life after falling asleep to lovecraft. i can't even be upset. never found someone who communicates the feeling of fear so perfectly (except for maybe Kubrick in The Shining)
A great tour of Providence and environs.
1:48:55 "*40 witches and a *Black Man."*
Oh God, it's *Him.*
Do you mean the black figure fron dreams in the witch house?
@@nev3084 the very same.
'The Black Pharoah' 🔥💀🔥
Funny how I always come back to certain stories of HPL. I don't think many people know that the spells used by Ward to bring back Curwen from the grave, HPL borrowed from Eliphas Levi, Dogma and Ritual of High Magic.
Well done, sir.
Thank you Björn! Ian
It reminds me a lot of "The Picture of Dorian Gray"
This is the last H.P lovecraft masterpiece I am still finishing the listening too. Please tell H.P Lovecraft his more masterpieces. Thanks to HorrorBabble I lovex the complete cthulu mythos the mound, the complete xream cycle. Please tell me theres another masterpeice you will upload soon???
Thanks Luis! A new recording of REANIMATOR will be going live this evening at 8PM (Eastern Time)!