Lovecraft Country
Let me take you on a journey—a tapestry woven with the threads of my favorite maker of entertainment media, Jordan Peele. A storyteller of extraordinary caliber, his artistry has enraptured my soul, just as it has stirred the imagination of my eldest son, a budding writer in his own right.
In the realm of cosmic horror, where eldritch tales unfurl, H.P. Lovecraft’s legacy casts its spell. My son’s obsession with Lovecraft’s writings becomes a conduit to the unknown, a gateway to realms that both chill the bones and ignite the creative flame within. Together, we embarked on an epic journey, drawn to the enigmatic miniseries that Jordan Peele conjured with masterful strokes. A cat named “Shoggoth” came into our lives—a fitting moniker for our feline companion, a living tribute to the cosmic entities that dance in the corners of our minds.
As I indulge my fangirl spirit, I find myself captivated by the dark tales spun by this remarkable creator. Jordan Peele’s storytelling prowess weaves tales that burrow into the depths of the human psyche, resonating with the echoes of our deepest fears and aspirations. In the shadows of his narratives, I glimpse reflections of the human experience, casting light upon the profound complexities that define our existence. Themes of identity, oppression, and the human condition intertwine, crafting a tapestry of narratives that linger long after the credits roll.
As I traverse this cosmic landscape of storytelling, I find myself marveling at the ingenious mind of Jordan Peele. His artistry transcends genres, unearthing the hidden facets of humanity, challenging conventions, and evoking the unyielding essence of human resilience. Through his lens, I am invited to confront the unspoken terrors that lie within, to grapple with the enigmas that lurk at the edge of consciousness. And in the darkness, there is illumination—a revelation of our own humanity and a call to embrace the multifaceted nature of our existence.
So here I stand, a devoted fangirl to the genius of Jordan Peele, my son a fervent disciple of Lovecraft’s prose. Together, we traverse the cosmic seas of storytelling, captivated by the allure of the unknown and the profound reflections of the human soul.
Atticus “Tic” Freeman
11 x 14 inch Mixed Media Sculpture
Bold and Unyielding: Tic, a young African-American man in the oppressive 1950s, stands as a beacon of courage and resilience amidst a landscape of racial segregation and discrimination. Undeterred by the numerous challenges and dangers that confront him, he fearlessly navigates the horrors that entangle his path.
A passionate reader, Tic’s heart beats for science fiction and pulp novels, their imaginative escapades igniting a spark of fascination within him. As he faces the Lovecraftian terrors that seemingly emerge from the very pages of his cherished books, his literary realm collides with a surreal reality.
Having served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War, Tic carries the emotional scars of warfare, a burden that distances him from his family and community. His relationship with his father, Montrose Freeman, is particularly complex, and he seeks to untangle the secrets that shroud his family’s enigmatic history.
Yet, amidst the darkness, Tic’s intellect and resourcefulness shine like stars in the night sky. Armed with knowledge, problem-solving acumen, and strategic wit, he confronts the supernatural threats that entwine themselves around him.
Driven by an unshakable sense of justice, Tic’s soul resounds with the echoes of racial injustice and discrimination. He becomes a fearless challenger, resolute in his pursuit to dismantle the oppressive forces that seek to suffocate him and his community.
As he traverses this treacherous terrain, Tic forges indelible bonds of friendship and loyalty. Letitia “Leti” Lewis and his Uncle George stand beside him as unwavering companions, their alliance becoming a sanctuary amidst the terror of Lovecraftian entities and the crucible of racism.
In the realm of “Lovecraft Country,” Tic undergoes a profound metamorphosis—a journey of self-discovery that traverses realms both human and otherworldly. Themes of racial oppression, identity, and the essence of fear envelop him, weaving a tapestry of depth and emotional resonance that makes Tic an unforgettable and relatable protagonist. With each step, Tic leaves an indomitable mark on the landscape of horror and social commentary, his indomitable spirit and unwavering courage leaving an imprint that transcends the cosmos and the boundaries of time itself.
Shoggoth
11 x 14 inch Mixed Media Sculpture
Meet the Shoggoth—a creature beyond comprehension, brought forth from the haunting imagination of H.P. Lovecraft.
In this cosmic horror tale, the Shoggoth stands as a shape-shifting monstrosity, its form ever-changing, twisted, and utterly abominable. It defies all conventional understanding, slithering through the void with an eerie grace that sends shivers down your spine.
Picture it—visions of grotesque, pulsating masses, bubbling and oozing like a malevolent force unleashed from the darkest corners of our deepest fears. The Shoggoth, a creation beyond human comprehension, defies all attempts at rationalization.
But here’s the twist—beyond the physical horror lies a deeper, psychological terror. The Shoggoth embodies the idea that some truths are better left unspoken, some nightmares left unexplored. It lingers as a metaphor for the hidden demons that lurk within us, the terrors we often try to suppress, but which inevitably rise to the surface.
Ruby as Dell
11 x 14 inch Mixed Media Sculpture
In “Lovecraft Country,” Ruby Baptiste’s transformation into Dell is a mesmerizing and daring journey that delves deep into the complexities of race and identity. When she embraces the “Orithyia Blue” potion, the metamorphosis that follows is not merely physical; it is a soul-searching odyssey that challenges societal norms and personal truths.
The dual identity Ruby assumes as Dell pulls her into two separate worlds that seem poles apart. She dances on a tightrope, balancing the privileges and advantages of being white while concealing the essence of her true self. As she navigates the racially segregated 1950s America, Ruby grapples with an emotional tug-of-war, torn between the comforts of her newfound life and the memories of her past struggles as a Black woman.
The transformation opens a unique window to the pervasive racial disparities of the era. Through the eyes of Dell, Ruby gains insights into the unspoken advantages bestowed upon white individuals. She witnesses the harsh reality of systemic racism and experiences the profound inequality her half-brother, Atticus, faces as a Black man. These revelations stir empathy in her heart and force her to confront her own prejudices and preconceived notions.
Ruby’s ambitions and desires find fulfillment as Dell, shattering the limitations society once imposed on her. She earns a position at a department store and enjoys the applause of societal acceptance. Yet, the facade she wears weighs heavily on her soul, and she questions the authenticity of her achievements.
The internal struggle intensifies as she grapples with her sense of self and the sacrifices she makes to uphold the charade. Love, friendship, and trust become tainted with the fear of exposure. Her relationships with white individuals become entangled in a web of deception, forcing her to question whether true connections are ever possible when built on lies.
The transformation of Ruby into Dell echoes the larger theme of empathy and understanding throughout “Lovecraft Country.” Her experiences serve as a catalyst for change, opening her heart to the plight of her fellow Black people and the urgent need for compassion and unity in a fractured world. It’s a poignant reminder of the stark contrast in treatment based on race and a call to confront the pervasive issue of privilege.
In the supernatural horror and racial injustice that permeate the series, Ruby’s character arc stands out as a beacon of thought-provoking reflection. Her transformation is not just about assuming a different identity; it’s a catalyst for a profound exploration of the human experience. In the hands of the incomparable Wunmi Mosaku, Ruby Baptiste as Dell becomes an unforgettable embodiment of the complex interplay between race, privilege, and the human soul.
Author: Dr. Harmony
My roles are numerous. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Sex Therapist by trade and an Artist and Activist by passion. I am a Wife, Partner, and Mother. To some, I am a Muse. I am not a Robot.