The Slithering Shadow

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Ebook
32
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Eligible
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About this ebook

In "The Slithering Shadow," Robert E. Howard presents an enthralling tale that features his iconic character, Conan the Barbarian. This novella evokes the raw, visceral energy of the sword and sorcery genre, immersing readers in a world where violence, supernatural elements, and primal instincts intertwine. Howard's vivid prose and gripping narrative style create an atmosphere thick with tension and dread as Conan confronts both external foes and his inner demons amidst the perilous backdrop of the Hyborian Age. The story deftly explores themes of ambition, power, and the eternal struggle against malevolence, enriching Howard's literary canon by weaving myth and realism in a way that was innovative for its time. Robert E. Howard (1906-1936) was an American author whose works significantly influenced the fantasy genre. His upbringing in Texas, combined with a fascination for history, myth, and ancient cultures, shaped his imaginative storytelling. Howard's experiences in the early 20th-century American literary scene, coupled with his correspondence with peers and wider cultural trends such as the fascination with pulp fiction, led him to develop a unique narrative style that resonates with the adventurous spirit of his era. For readers who appreciate high-octane adventures filled with rich world-building and complex characters, "The Slithering Shadow" is a must-read. Howard's ability to fuse thrilling action with philosophical undertones makes this novella an essential piece of literature for enthusiasts of fantasy and adventure narratives. Its exploration of human nature against a backdrop of myth will not only entertain but also provoke thought, urging readers to reflect on their own struggles against darkness.

About the author

Robert Ervin Howard (1906–1936) was an American author of pulp fiction whose body of work spanned a mere 12 years before his untimely death at the age of 30. Despite his brief career, Howard left an indelible mark on the genre of weird fiction, most notably with his creation of the character Conan the Barbarian. Born and raised in Texas, Howard's writings were often infused with the themes of history, myth, and his personal interpretations of the Texan landscape. His singular style often melded vibrant narrative with a rich, atmospheric setting, breathing life into his tales of sword and sorcery. 'The Slithering Shadow,' also known as 'Xuthal of the Dusk,' stands as a testament to his mastery of combining pulse-pounding action with fantastical elements in otherworldly settings. This particular narrative showcases his trademark character Conan in a tale of survival and adventure, as is typical of the broader Conan series. Howard's works, although sometimes dismissed during his lifetime, gained significant recognition posthumously. Today, he is regarded as one of the pioneers of sword and sorcery fiction, an influence to many writers in the genre. His writing style, which melds brevity with powerful description, enables readers to plunge into his worlds with an immediacy that is both visceral and immersive. Howard's dedication to his craft can be seen as a driving force behind the continuing popularity of his characters and stories within the fantasy genre.

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