In Lovecraft long stories, the theme of cosmic horror is central. This means that there are forces and beings in the universe that are so far beyond human understanding and so powerful that they are truly terrifying. For instance, in 'The Dream - Quest of Unknown Kadath', Randolph Carter encounters beings and places that defy all logic and human experience. Additionally, the theme of decay and degeneration is often present. Towns, like in 'The Shadow over Innsmouth', are often shown in a state of decay, which reflects the moral and physical decay that can come from contact with the otherworldly in Lovecraft's stories.
One of the well - known Lovecraft long stories is 'At the Mountains of Madness'. It takes readers on a chilling journey to Antarctica, where a scientific expedition uncovers terrifying secrets and ancient, otherworldly creatures. Another great one is 'The Call of Cthulhu', which has become a classic in horror literature. It involves a cult, a sleeping monstrosity, and the idea that there are things in the universe that are beyond human comprehension.
One of his famous long stories is 'At the Mountains of Madness'. It's a story full of horror and mystery set in Antarctica. The descriptions of the ancient and alien civilization discovered there are really creepy.
The key elements often include the sense of cosmic horror that Lovecraft is known for. There are eldritch monsters, strange and otherworldly locations. The protagonists often find themselves in situations that defy normal human understanding, facing ancient and malevolent forces that are far beyond our comprehension.
His long stories had a huge impact. They introduced a new kind of horror that was more about the unknown and the unknowable. For example, the way he described the elder gods in his stories has been emulated in many modern horror works.