The Slithering Shadow

Robert Ervin Howard

Jun 2022 · DigiCat

About this ebook

In 'The Slithering Shadow,' Robert Ervin Howard continues to build upon the lore of his most iconic character, Conan the Cimmerian. Within this thrilling adventure, readers are transported to the unforgiving expanse of a desert, where Conan's resilience and resourcefulness are put to the ultimate test. With prose as arid and harsh as the landscape it describes, Howard's narrative skillfully merges visceral action with an undercurrent of existential bleakness inherent to the sword-and-sorcery subgenre. Notably, this work further pioneers the evolution of the anti-hero archetype, while also standing as a testament to the era's burgeoning appetite for fantasy literature dominated by perseverance against insurmountable odds. A defining figure in pulp fiction, Robert Ervin Howard crafted a legacy through his creation of Conan and the world of Hyboria. This particular narrative reflects Howard's penchant for depicting raw human strength and indomitable will, themes that may have echoed the author's own tumultuous personal struggles. In Howard's hands, the character of Conan transcends mere fiction to embody the zeitgeist of a generation seeking escapism and heroism in the face of life's unforgiving deserts. Scholars and aficionados of classic fantasy will find 'The Slithering Shadow' to be an indispensable addition to their collection. This book not only offers a quintessential Conan tale that resonates with diehard fans but also serves as a profound exhibit of Howard's enduring influence on the fantasy genre. Recommended for enthusiasts looking to tour the origins of sword-and-sorcery, where the raw brutality of survival intertwines with the fantastical, 'The Slithering Shadow' stands as a stark reminder of the power and the draw of Howard's storytelling genius.

About the author

Robert Ervin Howard (1906–1936) was a prolific American writer, best known for his character Conan the Barbarian and for being a significant figure in the fantasy subgenre of sword and sorcery. Born and raised in the small town of Peaster, Texas, Howard spent most of his life in the Lone Star state. His tales, often set in exotic, fantastical landscapes, not only defined but also helped popularize the sword and sorcery genre. The Slithering Shadow is one of his many stories featuring the character Conan and demonstrates Howard's flair for adventure narratives interwoven with supernatural elements. Howard's literary style is direct and visceral, marked by an intense, almost palpable, sense of action. His storytelling is also distinguished by a dark, brooding atmosphere and an undercurrent of fatalism, reflecting the often harsh and unforgiving nature of his settings and times. Despite his career being tragically short—he took his own life at the age of 30—Howard left an indelible mark on fantasy literature. His works have been widely influential, not just on the genre, but across multiple forms of media, inspiring countless writers, artists, and filmmakers. Howard's legacy is also preserved through the Robert E. Howard Foundation and the annual Howard Days festival in Cross Plains, Texas, celebrating his life and work.