Algernon Blackwood

Algernon Blackwood: The Transfer

In Algernon Blackwood’s 1911 short story, “The Transfer,” the narrative revolves around a governess endowed with exceptional perceptive abilities who serves in the household of a wealthy family. The woman forms a unique bond with Jamie, one of the children in the household, who is particularly distressed by a visit from his father’s older brother. It appears that Jamie is experiencing a sense of apprehension towards his uncle, a sentiment that is not fully comprehended by the other members of the household, with the exception of the governess. She hypothesises that she is aware of the underlying cause of the child’s apprehension and its potential correlation with an isolated section of the garden, where, intriguingly, the flora exhibits a distinct lack of growth.

Algernon Blackwood: The Empty House

The Empty House is a chilling narrative by Algernon Blackwood, first published in 1906. The narrative examines the terror that arises from a seemingly innocuous location, yet one that is burdened with a sinister history. Jim Shorthouse accompanies his aunt, Julia, a paranormal enthusiast, on an investigation conducted at night within a house that has been the subject of rumour and speculation regarding its supposed curse. Despite the dwelling’s unremarkable appearance, those who visit it report an inexplicable sense of dread. As the couple progresses in their investigation, the atmosphere becomes increasingly oppressive, and the phenomena they encounter not only challenge their understanding but also threaten to erode their resolve.

Algernon Blackwood: The Doll

‘The Doll,’ a short story by Algernon Blackwood published in 1946, tells the story of Colonel Hymbers Masters, a retired Indian Army officer. One night, a man brings a package to the Colonel’s house with the express instruction that it is to be delivered only to him. Several days later, the Colonel discovers that the package contains a doll and orders it to be destroyed. The cook, however, disregards the instruction and gives it to Monica, the Colonel’s daughter, who immediately takes a liking to the doll and makes it her companion. From that moment on, mysterious events disrupt life at the Masters’ residence.