For a new reader, 'The Hellbound Heart' is also a good choice. It shows Barker's talent for creating complex characters and relationships. The way the characters interact and the emotions they experience can be related to the gay experience in terms of the depth of connection and the non - traditional nature of the relationships. It's also a story that has been very influential in the horror genre as a whole.
Another good one could be 'In the Hills, the Cities'. This story, while not blatantly gay - themed, has elements that can be related to different types of relationships and identities. It's a great introduction to how Barker weaves complex ideas into his horror - filled narratives. His ability to make the reader question the nature of the world and the relationships within it is really on display in this short story.
One of the well - known short stories by Clive Barker is 'In the Hills, the Cities'. While not explicitly 'gay' themed in a traditional sense, Barker's works often explore complex and diverse relationships. Another could be 'The Forbidden' which has elements that can be interpreted in various ways regarding human relationships. However, it's important to note that Clive Barker's works are known for their horror and the grotesque, and the exploration of 'gay' themes might be more in the subtext or in the way he portrays relationships that are outside the norm.
Clive Barker's short stories are known for their dark and fantastical elements. While he may not be predominantly known for 'gay' short stories in a mainstream sense, his overall body of work contains stories that could be relevant. For example, his ability to create complex characters and their relationships means that there could be stories where the exploration of same - sex relationships is part of the larger tapestry of his narrative. His stories often deal with the human condition, and in that exploration, aspects of gay relationships might be found and could be considered among the best in terms of their depth and uniqueness.
Another great one is 'In the Hills, the Cities'. This story is quite complex and thought - provoking. It uses Barker's unique imagination to explore some really strange and fascinating concepts. The vivid descriptions make it a standout among his works. It makes you question what is possible in the realm of horror and the surreal.
Clive Barker is more widely known for his horror and dark fantasy elements. However, his works often explore diverse human experiences. It might be that in his exploration of love and desire in a more general sense, there are stories that touch on gay elements. You could try reading reviews or analyses of his short story collections to find out which ones might be relevant in this regard.
A good starting point could be 'The Yattering and Jack'. It's a fun and spooky story that shows Barker's ability to create unique and menacing characters. It has a bit of a comical edge to it while still being a horror story, which makes it more accessible for those new to his work.
You might also like 'Dread'. It's more of a psychological horror story. It explores the concept of dread itself and how it can be used as a weapon. Barker does a great job of getting into the minds of the characters and making the reader feel their fear and unease.
Some of the best Clive Barker stories include 'The Hellbound Heart'. It's a dark and disturbing tale that introduced the Cenobites and the concept of the Lament Configuration. Another great one is 'Cabal', which has a really interesting take on werewolves and the idea of an underground society of outcasts.
One of the highly regarded Clive Barker short stories is 'The Forbidden'. It's a chilling tale that delves into the dark and the unknown. Barker's vivid descriptions and unique take on horror make it stand out. The story has a sense of creeping dread that builds throughout, and the characters are well - drawn, making the reader feel as if they are truly in that eerie world Barker has created.
You can start by looking at collections that are specifically labeled as containing his best works. For example, some anthologies might be curated to showcase his most popular and critically - acclaimed short stories.
One of Clive Barker's works that may touch on such themes is 'The Hellbound Heart'. It contains complex relationships and themes that can be explored in the context of different sexualities. Barker often delves into the darker aspects of human nature and relationships, and in this work, the characters' interactions can be analyzed from various perspectives including those related to sexual identity.