![]() While most readers are probably more familiar with the story’s movie adaptation, 1992’s Candyman starring Tony Todd, the original story is one of my favorites by Barker. Yet Barker’s story “The Forbidden” ups the ante by taking a more philosophical approach to the subject of urban legends in addition to simultaneously introducing one of horror’s most iconic killers: the Candyman. Lovecraft, MR James, Machen, even Ramsey Campbell, have all regaled their readers with tales of terror in which an everyman encounters the paranormal via poking about in secrets best left unknown. The genre is littered with innumerable examples of a formula that is now as familiar to fans as the cycle of the seasons: some skeptical Goofus hears about something spooky, starts investigating said spooky legend/place/monster, and finds out that the legend is based on some terrifying reality. This ubiquitous habit of us humans, to pass on the horrific and bizarre, is therefore understandably ample fodder for horror fiction. ![]() We’ve all heard unspeakable rumors whispered in the back of the schoolyard, creepy legends spoken in hushed voices at sleepovers, or he-said-she-said ghoulishness handed down by older siblings. When it comes to the horror genre, there is no shortage of work dealing with urban legends and the potential reality behind the campfire stories we use to terrify children. But I say – what’s blood for, if not for shedding?” – Clive Barker ![]() “ They will say your doubts shed innocent blood. ![]() KR: Door 17: The Age Of Desire – James Bennett The Forbidden ![]()
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