The suspense in H.P. Lovecraft’s ‘The Outsider’ primarily arises from the protagonist’s exploration of identity and the unknown. Throughout the story, the narrator is shrouded in darkness and isolation, evoking a sense of dread and curiosity in the reader.
As the narrative unfolds, the suspense builds around the mystery of the narrator’s existence and what he will ultimately discover about himself. His journey from the depths of a dank, underground setting to the surface world heightens the tension, as each new revelation leaves the reader wondering about the implications of his past.
Moreover, Lovecraft expertly creates an atmosphere of unease through vivid descriptions and a growing sense of foreboding. The protagonist’s encounter with a shocking reality serves as the climax of suspense, where the reader’s anticipation culminates in a terrifying revelation. This psychological tension, coupled with the themes of alienation and the fear of the unknown, forms the backbone of the story’s suspense, making it a compelling read for fans of horror literature.