The next story in this Egaeus anthology takes us to rural England, and a small town beset by a recurring tragedy. Every few years a young person is processed by a strange malady that seems to be supernatural in nature. A mysterious figure known as 'the good shepherd' becomes visible to the afflicted person, as does his house on a hill overlooking the town. This strange being is seen by the victim, gradually approaching their home, until he arrives and claims them. He then takes them back to his dwelling, having hooked them with his shepherd's crook.
This is a fascinating premise, with its odd twist on Christian imagery and its nod to some classics of the genre - such as de la Mare's 'Crewe' - in which a weird menace approaches its victim gradually. The actual story focuses on a native of the small town who, for reasons he cannot fathom at first, escapes the good shepherd and leaves to make his fortune elsewhere. He then returns and purchases a fine house, and becomes once more involved in the odd doings of a very close-knit community.
The story is well-written and full of arresting imagery. I did feel, though, that there was some aspect of it I had failed to grasp. It might benefit from re-reading, as I sometimes miss an author's subtler intentions. Suffice to say that I retain a mental picture of the shepherd, deceptively rustic and jovial in some manifestations. All very strange.
Back soon, I hope, with more of this running review.
1 comment:
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