Robert Bloch
Biography
Robert Bloch (1917-1994) was an American author of horror, crime, fantasy, and science fiction, best known for his novel "Psycho" (1959), which was famously adapted into a film by Alfred Hitchcock. Born in Chicago, Bloch began writing at a young age, influenced by H.P. Lovecraft, with whom he corresponded extensively. His early work appeared in pulp magazines like Weird Tales. Throughout his prolific career, Bloch penned over 30 novels, hundreds of short stories, and scripts for television (including episodes of 'Star Trek' and 'Alfred Hitchcock Presents') and film. He was a master of psychological terror, often exploring the darker aspects of human nature and the unsettling potential lurking beneath ordinary facades.
Selected Thoughts
«We all go a little mad sometimes.»
«The man who smiles when things go wrong has thought of someone to blame it on.»
«Horror is not a genre, it is a feeling. It's not a category. It's a method.»
Writing Style
Bloch's writing style is characterized by psychological horror, suspense, and often dark, sardonic humor. He excelled at crafting chilling narratives that delved into the minds of disturbed characters, frequently employing ironic twists and shocking revelations. His prose, while rooted in pulp fiction, was precise and evocative, building atmosphere through subtle details and a keen understanding of human frailties and fears. He often used first-person narration to immerse readers directly into the protagonists' deteriorating mental states.