Richard Matheson

Easton Press Richard Matheson books

The Shrinking Man - Masterpieces of Science Fiction - 1990

I Am Legend - Day After Doomsday collection - 2009

Somewhere in Time - 2016

 

 

 

Writer Richard Matheson

Richard Matheson was an American author and screenwriter known for his prolific contributions to the genres of science fiction, fantasy, horror, and suspense. Born on February 20, 1926, in Allendale, New Jersey, Matheson discovered his love for storytelling at a young age and began writing short stories and novels in his teens. After serving in the U.S. Army during World War II, Matheson attended the University of Missouri, where he studied journalism. He later moved to California to pursue a career as a writer, finding early success with his short stories, many of which were published in popular pulp magazines such as Amazing Stories and The Magazine of Fantasy & Science Fiction.

Matheson gained widespread acclaim with the publication of his novel I Am Legend in 1954, a groundbreaking work of science fiction that explores themes of loneliness, survival, and the nature of humanity in a post-apocalyptic world overrun by vampires. The novel has since become a classic of the genre and has been adapted into several films, including The Last Man on Earth (1964), The Omega Man (1971), and I Am Legend (2007). Throughout his career, Matheson wrote numerous novels, short stories, and screenplays, many of which were adapted into films, television shows, and radio dramas. His other notable works include The Shrinking Man (1956), Hell House (1971), and What Dreams May Come (1978), all of which explore themes of horror, fantasy, and the supernatural with his signature blend of psychological depth and suspense. In addition to his fiction writing, Matheson was also a prolific screenwriter, known for his work on iconic television shows such as The Twilight Zone, where he penned some of the series' most memorable episodes, including Nightmare at 20,000 Feet and Steel. He also wrote screenplays for numerous feature films, including The Incredible Shrinking Man (1957) and Somewhere in Time (1980).

Throughout his long and distinguished career, Richard Matheson left an indelible mark on the world of literature and entertainment, inspiring generations of writers, filmmakers, and fans with his imaginative storytelling and masterful storytelling. He passed away on June 23, 2013, but his legacy continues to live on through his timeless works and enduring influence on popular culture.

The Shrinking Man

 

The Shrinking Man is a science fiction novel first published in 1956. The novel tells the story of Scott Carey, a man who begins to shrink in size after being exposed to a mysterious cloud of radioactive spray. As Scott's body gradually diminishes, he must confront the physical and psychological challenges of his condition, ultimately grappling with questions of identity, purpose, and the nature of existence. Set against the backdrop of Cold War-era America, The Shrinking Man explores themes of isolation, alienation, and the fear of the unknown. As Scott's stature diminishes, he becomes increasingly marginalized and estranged from the world around him, struggling to maintain his sense of self and dignity in the face of overwhelming adversity.

Matheson's novel is celebrated for its taut pacing, vivid imagery, and psychological depth, as well as its exploration of existential themes. Through Scott's harrowing journey, the novel raises thought-provoking questions about the human condition and the fragility of human existence, challenging readers to confront their own fears and uncertainties.

The Shrinking Man received widespread acclaim upon its publication and has since become a classic of science fiction literature. It has been adapted into various media, including a 1957 film adaptation titled The Incredible Shrinking Man, directed by Jack Arnold, as well as radio dramas, comic books, and stage productions. Through its imaginative premise and poignant exploration of universal themes, The Shrinking Man continues to captivate readers and inspire discussions about the human experience and the mysteries of the universe. Richard Matheson's novel remains a timeless testament to the power of speculative fiction to illuminate the human condition and provoke contemplation about the nature of reality and our place within it.

I Am Legend

I Am Legend is a landmark science fiction novel written by Richard Matheson, first published in 1954. The novel is set in a post-apocalyptic world where humanity has been decimated by a global pandemic, leaving protagonist Robert Neville as seemingly the last human survivor in Los Angeles. As Neville navigates the desolate landscape, he grapples with loneliness, despair, and the constant threat of vampiric creatures that now dominate the night. The story follows Neville's struggle for survival as he barricades himself in his home, scavenges for supplies, and fights off attacks from the vampire-like beings that roam the streets. Despite his isolation, Neville remains determined to find a cure for the pandemic and restore humanity to its former glory.

I Am Legend is celebrated for its innovative narrative structure, gripping suspense, and profound exploration of themes such as isolation, identity, and the nature of humanity. Matheson's portrayal of Neville as a flawed and complex protagonist, wrestling with his own inner demons while confronting external threats, lends depth and nuance to the story, elevating it beyond typical genre fare. The novel's title refers to Neville's status as both a survivor and a legend, a symbol of hope and resilience in a world consumed by darkness. Through Neville's struggles and triumphs, I Am Legend offers a powerful meditation on the human capacity for adaptation, perseverance, and redemption in the face of overwhelming odds.

I Am Legend has had a significant impact on popular culture and has been adapted into several films, including the 1964 film The Last Man on Earth, the 1971 film The Omega Man, and the 2007 film I Am Legend, starring Will Smith. While each adaptation takes creative liberties with the source material, Matheson's novel remains a timeless classic of science fiction literature, beloved by readers for its haunting imagery, provocative themes, and enduring relevance.

 

Somewhere in Time

Somewhere in Time is a romantic science fiction novel and screenplay written by Richard Matheson, first published in 1975. The novel follows the story of Richard Collier, a young playwright who becomes obsessed with a photograph of a beautiful actress from the early 20th century named Elise McKenna. Inspired by a chance encounter with an elderly woman who claims to have known McKenna, Collier embarks on a quest to uncover the truth about her life and the mysterious connection he feels to her. Through a series of events, Collier discovers that McKenna was a famous stage actress who performed at the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island, Michigan, in 1912. Determined to meet her, Collier utilizes self-hypnosis to transport himself back in time to the year 1912, where he hopes to find McKenna and win her heart.

As Collier navigates the challenges of time travel and the complexities of his relationship with McKenna, he must confront the limitations of love and the power of fate to shape the course of our lives. The novel explores themes of destiny, longing, and the transcendent power of love to transcend the boundaries of time and space. Somewhere in Time is celebrated for its evocative prose, poignant storytelling, and heartfelt exploration of the human heart. Matheson's masterful blending of romance and science fiction elements creates a mesmerizing narrative that captures the imagination and touches the soul.

The novel has been adapted into various media, including a 1980 film adaptation starring Christopher Reeve and Jane Seymour, directed by Jeannot Szwarc. While the film diverges from the novel in several aspects, it retains the core themes and emotional resonance of Matheson's original work, captivating audiences with its timeless tale of love and longing. Somewhere in Time continues to enchant readers and viewers alike with its timeless story of love, fate, and the enduring power of the human spirit. Richard Matheson's novel remains a beloved classic of romantic literature, cherished by generations for its timeless message of hope and redemption.