One notable feature is their atmosphere. Aickman creates a sense of unease and mystery. His stories often have a dream - like quality that draws the reader in.
Well, one characteristic is the ambiguity. His stories often leave readers wondering what exactly is going on. It's not always clear whether the events are truly supernatural or just in the characters' minds.
The story 'Into the Wood' by Robert Aickman might be exploring themes such as the unknown that lies within nature. The woods could be a symbol of something deeper, like the subconscious. It could also be about how people are drawn to the mysterious, with the protagonist perhaps being lured into the wood by some unseen force, facing various challenges and revelations as they penetrate deeper into it.
Robert Aickman and Arthur Machen are both masters in the field of ghost stories. Their works often feature a sense of the uncanny and the unknown. Aickman's stories tend to be more psychologically complex, delving deep into the human psyche. Machen, on the other hand, has a more traditional approach in some ways, with elements of Welsh folklore often seeping into his tales. Their stories are not just about scaring the reader but also about exploring deeper themes such as the nature of reality, human nature, and the existence of the supernatural. Reading their works can be a journey into a world that blurs the line between the real and the imagined.
His stories can appeal to a wide range of readers. Fans of classic horror and ghost stories would definitely be interested. They like the slow - building tension and the spooky atmosphere that Aickman creates.
One key difference is their narrative pacing. Machen sometimes has a more straightforward pacing, leading the reader through the events in a more linear fashion. Aickman, however, likes to play with time and perception, which can make his stories feel more disorienting. Another aspect is the use of characters. Machen's characters often seem to be more archetypal, representing certain types within the context of his stories. Aickman's characters are more complex individuals with their own internal struggles that are often at the heart of the supernatural events they experience.
I'm not sure as I haven't read the full story. But perhaps the main characters experience a sense of disorientation in the wood. They might come across strange sights or sounds that make them question their reality.