The Case of Charles Dexter Ward by H. P. Lovecraft - Read by Neil Hellegers
Charles Dexter Ward is a young man from a prominent Rhode Island family with a keen interest in history. He spends much of his childhood wandering the streets of ancient Providence, drawn inexorably to its architecture, as well as it’s colourful heritage. As an adult he continues his antiquarian leanings and subsequently discovers a hitherto unknown ancestor, Joseph Curwen. One with a shadowy past which hints at the pursuit of alchemy and other arcane practises. Charles decides to uncover the truth regarding Joseph Curwen and over time his interest changes into obsession. His Father begins to worry about his son’s fixation and the family Doctor, Marinus Bicknell Willett, decides to keep an eye upon the youth’s state of mind. A series of curious events hint at a growing eldritch malevolence and Doctor Willett begins to suspect that Charles is in grave danger from a menace stretching across time.
The Case of Charles Dexter Ward by H. P. Lovecraft, is a short novel that first appeared in Weird Tales in 1941. It is an uncomplicated story with a straightforward narrative arc. A young man’s obsession with an unsavoury ancestor leads to him replicating his alchemical and cabalistic research with suitably unpleasant results. However, it’s strength lies in the details that Lovecraft lavishes upon the proceedings. The loquacious descriptions of Providence, the historical details of 18th century life and culture in the State of Rhode Island and the inclusion of real characters from the era, such as Abraham Whipple, John and Moses Brown and Esek Hopkins is compelling. Once again Lovecraft alludes to ancient and arcane forces lurking beyond the veil of human understanding and perception. As ever the terror he evokes lies in the suggestion of something unfathomably evil and utterly alien impinging upon our world.
This unabridged reading of The Case of Charles Dexter Ward by Neil Hellegers is well paced and atmospheric. Hellegers, who has a great deal of experience with recording audio books, has clear diction and measured intonation, providing subtle detail to each character. His pronunciation of some of the complex names in the Cthulhu Mythos is assured. The story’s six hour running time is broken down into manageable audio chapters. Overall this is a well presented and exclusive reading of Lovecraft’s story, to be found only on Audible. It is accessible to both those familiar with the writings of H. P. Lovecraft and those who are new to his body or work. It certainly features one of his most notable and sinister villains. The story leaves several plot devices purposely vague and it is enjoyable to ponder on them after listening.
