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John Shirley

    February 10, 1953

    John Shirley crafts narratives that are as visceral as they are thought-provoking, delving into the shadows of the human psyche and the grim possibilities of the future. His work is distinguished by a raw intensity and stark imagery, exploring themes of identity erosion, societal breakdown, and the individual's struggle against overwhelming forces. Influenced by his background in punk music, Shirley's prose carries a wild energy and an unflinching, often brutal, realism. He is a writer who immerses readers in worlds brimming with tension, compelling them to question the boundaries of their own reality.

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    • 2024
    • 2024

      Spectral Realms No. 20

      Winter 2024

      • 136 pages
      • 5 hours of reading

      Hippocampus Press is proud to commemorate ten years of our acclaimed journal of weird poetry, Spectral Realms, with the publication of the twentieth issue. As before, it contains a diverse array of poetry by today's leading versifiers in the realm of horror and the supernatural-John Shirley, Scott J. Couturier, Frank Coffman, Manuel Pérez-Campos, Ngo Binh Anh Khoa, Leigh Blackmore, Ann K. Schwader, and a host of others. Maxwell I. Gold and Jay Sturner contribute provocative prose poems, while a cadre of poets pen tributes to Dylan Thomas (Carl E. Reed's Echoing Dylan Thomas"), Robert W. Chambers (David J. Kopaska-Merkel's "A Vision of Carcosa"), Emily Brontë (Michael Potts's "After Heathcliff Digs Up Cathy"), and the imperishable Shakespeare (Kyla Lee Ward's "Malvolio's Revenge"). Among the classic reprints are poems by the Scottish writer William Sharp and the Weird Tales poet Mary C. Shaw. The issue concludes with a detailed index of poets and poem titles to issues 11-20.

      Spectral Realms No. 20
    • 2023

      The Voice of the Burning House

      Poems

      • 112 pages
      • 4 hours of reading

      Drawing inspiration from the greats of Weird Poetry, this work pays homage to the styles of Clark Ashton Smith, H. P. Lovecraft, Edgar Allan Poe, and George Sterling. It weaves together themes of the uncanny and the surreal, exploring the boundaries of reality and imagination. The collection promises to immerse readers in a rich tapestry of haunting imagery and thought-provoking verse, inviting them into a world where the strange and the beautiful intertwine.

      The Voice of the Burning House
    • 2023

      Exploring the vibrant realm of "punk" literature, this installment invites readers to embrace their inner rebel through a collection of daring narratives. It showcases innovative storytelling that challenges societal norms and ignites the imagination. With a focus on themes of resistance and individuality, the book presents a diverse array of characters and settings that reflect the essence of punk culture. Readers are encouraged to dive into a world where creativity knows no bounds, making it a must-read for fans of edgy literature.

      FORBIDDEN FUTURES 11
    • 2023

      The Cozy Cosmic

      • 274 pages
      • 10 hours of reading

      Exploring existential themes, the book delves into the notion that life may be inherently futile, suggesting that human beings are insignificant compared to ancient cosmic intelligences. It challenges readers to confront the idea of life's meaning and the absence of true winners in the grand scheme of existence, provoking deep reflection on our place in the universe.

      The Cozy Cosmic
    • 2023

      SubOrbital 7

      • 336 pages
      • 12 hours of reading
      3.0(50)Add rating

      A routine rescue mission leaves a team of US soldiers, rescued hostages and a prisoner trapped above Earth in a suborbital craft, in this cinematic action- packed near-future thriller, perfect for fans of Tom Clancy and Jack Carr.

      SubOrbital 7
    • 2022

      Dracula in Love

      • 258 pages
      • 10 hours of reading

      At 33, the protagonist uncovers his lineage as the son of a legendary and terrifying being, far more formidable than the myths suggest. This modern retelling of Dracula features a unique twist, where the titular creature is intertwined with a bizarre, sentient sexual organ that possesses its own predatory spirit. The narrative blends horror with contemporary elements, including the juxtaposition of ancient legends and modern weaponry, creating a fresh and unsettling take on classic vampire lore.

      Dracula in Love
    • 2022

      In Darkness Waiting

      • 330 pages
      • 12 hours of reading

      A gripping sci-fi thriller by John Shirley that combines suspense with thought-provoking themes. The narrative weaves a complex tale filled with intriguing characters and a richly imagined world, exploring the consequences of advanced technology and human ambition. Readers can expect a fast-paced plot that keeps them on the edge of their seats, making it a must-read for fans of the genre.

      In Darkness Waiting
    • 2022

      Really, Really, Really, Really Weird Stories

      A New Edition with Four New Stories

      • 402 pages
      • 15 hours of reading

      Dive into the unconventional universe crafted by John Shirley, where the bizarre and the extraordinary intertwine. This collection showcases his unique storytelling style, blending elements of science fiction, horror, and dark humor. Readers will encounter a range of eccentric characters and thought-provoking themes, all set against imaginative backdrops that challenge reality. Shirley's work invites exploration of the surreal and the strange, making it a captivating experience for those seeking something truly different in literature.

      Really, Really, Really, Really Weird Stories