Providence Compendium

Cards on table, I'm a huge Moore fan and a huge Lovecraft fan. Both men are such gifted writers, with such incredible imaginations. Picking this up was a no brainer.Providence and the earlier volume Neonomicon (read that first) are, together, a superb reinterpretation of Lovecraft's entire mythos. This review pertains to them both. Without spoiling too much, Moore goes where Lovecraft himself dared not. Lovecraft, famously, contented himself with allusions to "nameless horrors" and the "unspeakable" without getting into lurid descriptive depth. While a compelling narrative technique in itself (you might even say "that's the point") sometimes it feels a bit like Lovecraft was so overwhelmed by his own notions that he couldn't bring himself to vividly express them. Maybe this speaks to the conservatism of the man and/or his era? In any event, these ideas in Moore's hands are dynamite. The kind of horror that bothers you for days.The only criticism I can offer concerns the alternation, in Providence, between graphic novel and handwritten recollection. For what it's worth, the handwritten sections are interesting, providing a first-person retrospective on the events we've just encountered. This resonates nicely with the theme of a "hidden America", letting us in on our protagonist's real feelings otherwise hidden behind his polite dissimulations. They also serve as a tidy recollection of what we've just experienced. As with any solid piece of literature it requires some reflective piecing-together, a certain level of engagement from the reader. The whole thing is positively saturated with stunning ideas which demand a bit of rumination. These retrospective portions certainly help with that. However they sometimes tend to drag a little, even interrupting the rhythm of the narrative. Perhaps they might have been trimmed some without harming things?Nevertheless this is a must for any Lovecraft, Moore, comic book, or horror fan. But reader beware, the old knowledge only goes one way...

I didn't know what to expect from this except that it would be pretty twisted. I was not disappointed. This is not a graphic novel compendium for kids-- it deserves just about every trigger warning one could need. Moore transgresses many taboos in re-inventing and synthesizing Lovecraft's (and his broader circle's) ideas from a modern, very very dark perspective. And in the process he takes a cold hard look at himself, and fandom, and its dark sides. This is a farewell critique of himself as well as an incredibly meticulously researched homage to Lovecraft et al.Personally I didn't find the extreme gore and sex and other choices, often vividly presented in the excellent art, that hard to cope with; but they did make my eyes go wide in "oh no you didn't!" reactions sometimes. I have a strong stomach. Lovecraft would react otherwise!I found one design aspect tough going personally- there are many pages at the end of each chapter in handwritten text, from the main character's personal notebook, and these were a slog for my bad eyes to get through, but they were rewarding in terms of adding more information. Sometimes they were funny, too, in how they revealed the utter cluelessness of the main character as they get in deeper and deeper. Other times they are rather repetitive of the main panels of the graphics and text. But they did work, in terms of making this a graphic NOVEL. So I can't reduce the star rating there.If you're not familiar with Lovecraft's work, you'll miss a lot of the inside jokes here which come fast and furious. Every chapter relates to at least 1 story, sometimes with names unchanged but often with slightly changed ones (e.g. Herbert West = Hector North). It also bears a re-read skimming it once you've read through the whole novel once, as a lot of themes (in typical Moore fashion) circle back to earlier ones.Finally, if you can handle this novel I recommend reading Neonomicon before chapter 12. It bridges the gap between that and chapter 11. Neonomicon dials up the "yikes" factor to 11 in what happens to 1 character (be warned!), and is much weaker of a story overall but it is improved a lot by being fit into the broader story arc of Providence (as prequel-sequel).The art is some of the best Cthulhu Mythos art I've seen. I loved the novel; I keep thinking about it. It is very well thought out, cleverly weaving together so many plotlines and characters and themes. It does deserve comparison to The Watchmen but is a really different kind of tale.

The entire epic story in one well-produced volume.

So good.

I wasn't exactly sure what the jist of the story was but had enough of an idea that buying it needed no second thought.After reading both From Hell and Voice Of The Fire I needed more Moore in my life. Lovecraft has been a favourite of mine for a long time and seeing that this was some kind of cosmic concoction of the two...well. Sign me up!Not familiar with Burrows but the style helps carry the story. Some tremendously unsettling characters contained within. Perhaps a tad understated but I'm here for the story. If comics are your forte then perhaps you'd feel differently.What else is there to say? If you know, you know. And if you don't, you should! It's a well written story that I didn't want to end."Truly, all the wisdom of the stars is mine, and here I speak it plainly to those who have ears to listen"

Nothing new, average story based on Lovecrafts ideas. Add a little shock vaule and thats about it.

The complete 12 comics in one book.Beautifully illustrated and written.And finally at a decent price (£19).We begin at the start, where Robert Black starts to research an old book and a strange legend. Following the death of his Lover. But over the twelve episodes, we uncover some startling truths.He is the Herald, and his function is to awaken HP Lovecraft as the Redeemer.And in the end, Lovecrafts words change the world, recreate it in the form it already had?Confusing? That is the nature of time. That is the nature of THEIR reality. It completes and fulfils us.This series is stunning and very clever and is well worth a read.

Unveiling Cosmic Horrors: Providence CompendiumPrepare for a mesmerizing descent into the unknown realms of horror and cosmic intrigue with the Providence Compendium. This compendium isn’t just a graphic novel; it's an astonishingly intricate and mind-bending journey that delves into the darkest corners of cosmic horror.Masterful Narrative UnfoldingThe compendium introduces readers to a meticulously crafted narrative that weaves together elements of Lovecraftian horror, cosmic mythology, and existential dread. Through the eyes of protagonist Robert Black, readers traverse a landscape of eerie and disturbing revelations that gradually unravel the mysteries of the occult.Immersive Visual SpectacleAlan Moore's visionary storytelling is perfectly complemented by Jacen Burrows' evocative and haunting artwork. The visuals are a feast for the eyes, encapsulating the eerie and otherworldly essence of the narrative in each panel, drawing readers deeper into the cosmic horror.Layered Themes and Provocative ExplorationProvocative and layered, Providence delves into themes of identity, the occult, sexuality, and the fragile fabric of reality itself. Moore's exploration of the human psyche amid cosmic horrors is both thought-provoking and chillingly immersive.Unforgettable Reading ExperienceThe compendium isn’t just a read; it's an experience that lingers long after the final page. Its blend of intricate storytelling, breathtaking artwork, and thought-provoking themes ensures that it resonates deeply with readers, leaving an indelible mark on their minds.ConclusionIn conclusion, the Providence Compendium is a magnum opus of cosmic horror. With its masterful storytelling, immersive visuals, layered themes, and unforgettable reading experience, it's an essential addition for fans of Lovecraftian horror and those seeking a mind-bending journey into the abyss of cosmic terror.The Providence Compendium isn’t just a graphic novel; it's a mesmerizing odyssey through the realms of cosmic horror and existential intrigue. Its intricate narrative, evocative artwork, and thought-provoking themes make it an indispensable read for enthusiasts of Lovecraftian tales and those intrigued by the depths of cosmic terror.

Excelente producto, llegó en tiempo y sin problemas

5+ STARSAlan Moore, creator of Watchmen, V for Vendetta, From Hell, The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen, and the groundbreaking run on Swamp Thing, among other amazing projects, gives us Providence, a fresh look at Lovecraft's mythology. Providence, originally released as a 12 issue standalone comic book series by Avatar Press, is finally collected here in a beautiful edition that also includes the artwork for all 12 covers.Each of the 12 issues is another "chapter" in the story, split between traditional comic storytelling and detailed journal entries of the protagonist, Robert Black. There are so many hidden - and not so hidden - Lovecraftian gems throughout this book, I was in awe of the author's research and depth to every element, beautifully weaving fact and fiction together in a seamless narrative. I honestly have not enjoyed something this immersive and masterfully crafted in a long time. The reader is even gifted with HP Lovecraft himself in the tale, along with his biographer, S. T. Joshi. While not everyone will catch all the nuances and details in the story, there is so much to enjoy here that I find it almost impossible for genre fans not to find a lot to like about Providence.The detailed and atmospheric artwork by Jacen Burrows is easily the best of his already impressive career, complimenting the story nearly perfectly. I found myself thinking back on scenes and moments throughout the book over the few days I spent reading it, and know I will return to this story again in the future. The locations, characters, dialogue, and undertones of this macabre, eerie world was truly a fulfilling read. This gets my highest recommendation.

PROVIDENCE COMPENDIUM é quase tudo que um trade paperback se propõe a ser, com a exceção do preço. 30 dólares por menos de 500 páginas é um valor excessivo pelo ​volume, que reúne 12 números da série homônima de Alan Moore e Jacen Burrows, uma das HQs finais do escritor.PROVIDENCE é o desfecho de uma trilogia iniciada por THE COURTYARD e seguida por NEONOMICON, na qual Moore transita por elementos de terror da obra de Lovecraft oferecendo uma nova perspectiva e reinterpretando a elaboração do Mythos, um autêntico exercício de engenharia reversa. Trata-se de algo bastante similar ao que Moore já havia feito com a ficção e literatura em LIGA EXTRAORDINÁRIA.A qualidade do volume é excelente. Algumas falhas editorias foram corrigidas para esta edição, mas não há extras. O volume é bem enxuto.A leitura deve ser precedida pelo exemplar de NEONOMICON, que reúne THE COURTYARD e o NEONOMICON propriamente dito.

The diary entries are a bit lengthy and somewhat redundant. Nevertheless, this transposition of Lovecraft motives to a meta level is a masterclass of how to take strong original material, and to weave it into a still original story.This is peak Alan Moore, and should appeal to friends of Lovecraft, Moore, and of graphic novels equally.