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Horror Quote by Richard Marsh

“So far, in the room itself there had not been a sound. When the clock had struck ten, as it seemed to me, years ago, there came a rustling noise, from the direction of the bed. Feet stepped upon the floor,— moving towards where I was lying. It was, of course, now broad day, and I, presently…” quote by Richard Marsh
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““So far, in the room itself there had not been a sound. When the clock had struck ten, as it seemed to me, years ago, there came a rustling noise, from the direction of the bed. Feet stepped upon the floor,— moving towards where I was lying. It was, of course, now broad day, and I, presently, perceived that a figure, clad in some queer coloured garment, was standing at my side, looking down at me. It stooped, then knelt. My only covering was unceremoniously thrown from off me, so that I lay there in my nakedness. Fingers prodded me then and there, as if I had been some beast ready for the butcher’s stall. A face looked into mine, and, in front of me, were those dreadful eyes. Then, whether I was dead or living, I said to myself that this could be nothing human,— nothing fashioned in God’s image could wear such a shape as that. Fingers were pressed into my cheeks, they were thrust into my mouth, they touched my staring eyes, shut my eyelids, then opened them again, and— horror of horrors!— the blubber lips were pressed to mine— the soul of something evil entered into me in the guise of a kiss.””

Richard Marsh

About This Quote

Source Novel: The Beetle, 1897

A terrifying encounter with a supernatural entity that defies human form, suggesting an evil presence invading the narrator's body.

In simple terms: A monster attacks, invading the narrator's

Key Takeaway

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Themes

Beware unseen forces that can corrupt.

Mood

fearful horrific disturbing

Type

literary horror psychological

When to use this quote

  • metamorphosis
  • otherness
  • psychological horror

Key Concepts

terror supernatural possession identity evil

Practical Applications

  • nightmare
  • sleep paralysis
  • possession rituals
  • psychotic episodes

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does the “evil kiss” represent?
  • How do we recognize when we are being manipulated?
A Different Perspective

The narrative may symbolize internal fears rather than literal demons.

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