The Claimed - Bennett, Gertrude Barrows

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Résumé :
One of Bennett's most famous novel, Claimed, narrates the tale of a supernatural artifact which summons an ancient and powerful god to early 20th century New Jersey. Augustus T. Swift called the novel, One of the strangest and most compelling science fantasy novels you will ever read). Excerpt: From where we stood the illusion of ruins was nearly perfect, and indeed - who knows? - we may to-day have looked upon the last surviving trace of some ancient city, flung up from the abyss that engulfed it ages before the brief history we have of the race of man began. I would have liked to investigate the ruins more closely, but thought best not to attempt it. From many fissures hot, ill-smelling, and probably poisonous vapor is still pouring up, and though the rock is sufficiently cool so that it is possible to walk on it, I deemed it safer to confine exploration to a comparatively small space near our landing-place....

Sommaire:
Claimed offers an enchanting and complex tapestry of narratives that traverse the boundaries of speculative fiction, weaving together elements of fantasy, horror, and science fiction into an eclectic collection that defies singular categorization. This anthology enriches the genre with its multifaceted exploration of themes such as identity, otherworldliness, and the confrontation of the unknown. At its core, the collection seeks to illuminate the mysterious spaces that lie at the intersection of reality and imagination, with standout pieces immersing the reader into mesmerizing narrative landscapes that are as thought-provoking as they are unsettling. Helmed by the foundational contributions of Gertrude Barrows Bennett and Francis Stevens, often regarded as pioneers in their era, this anthology draws upon their revolutionary depiction of speculative worlds. As integral figures in early 20th-century speculative literature, each author broke ground by exploring social and cultural undercurrents through their writings. Their collective endeavor celebrates the tradition of speculative fiction as a vessel for societal reflection and critique, thus keeping timeless themes vibrant through the dynamic and innovative voices included in this collection. A compelling read for both seasoned fans of speculative fiction and newcomers alike, Claimed offers a fascinating dive into rich and divergent perspectives under one literary roof. Readers are invited to lose themselves in the synergy of varied narrative forms and styles, which together create a balanced yet dynamic dialogue that transcends time and space. Grounded in historical resonance, the anthology serves as an educational and insightful journey, challenging readers to expand their horizons and engage deeply with the thematic complexities presented. This collection is not only a tribute to the genre's expansive potential but also a testament to the enduring power of imagination....