Random Wiki Page: The Cosmicism of H.P. Lovecraft

Random Wiki Page: The Cosmicism of H.P. Lovecraft

Cosmicism is a philosophical viewpoint associated with the works of American writer H.P. Lovecraft. This perspective emphasizes the insignificance of humanity within the vastness of the cosmos and suggests that the universe is indifferent to human existence.

Overview

Lovecraft's narratives often feature ancient, powerful beings known as "Great Old Ones" who exist beyond human comprehension. These entities highlight the fragility and vulnerability of humanity, which is depicted as a mere speck in an uncaring universe. Central to Cosmicism is the idea that the universe operates on a scale and within laws that are entirely indifferent to human emotions and values.

Key Themes

• Indifference of the Universe: The universe is portrayed as vast and uncaring, where humanity's existence holds little importance.
• The Unknown: Lovecraft often explores themes of forbidden knowledge and the limits of human understanding. Characters who seek knowledge about these cosmic truths often face dire consequences.
• Insignificance of Humanity: Humanity is depicted as a fleeting presence in an ancient cosmos filled with inconceivable horrors, reinforcing the idea that human beings are not the center of existence.

Influences

Lovecraft's Cosmicism draws on various philosophical and scientific ideas, including existentialism and the early 20th-century cosmological discoveries, which suggested that the universe is not static and that humans are not at its center.

Conclusion

Cosmicism serves as a foundational element in Lovecraft's mythos, providing a framework for understanding the themes of existential dread and the limitations of human perception. This philosophical outlook not only impacts Lovecraft's own works but also influences a wide range of literature and media that explore similar themes of cosmic horror.

References

• Lovecraft, H.P. The Call of Cthulhu and Other Weird Stories. Penguin Classics, 1999.
• Joshi, S.T. H.P. Lovecraft: A Life. Necronomicon Press, 1996.