This video explores Robert Chambers's 1895 short story collection, The King in Yellow, and its lasting influence on various media. Wendigoon analyzes the stories, focusing on how the fictional play within the book, also titled The King in Yellow, acts as a mimetic entity, infecting the minds of those who encounter it, and its impact on the real world of art and literature.
The King in Yellow as a Mimetic Entity: The fictional play within Chambers' book is presented as a powerful, contagious entity that affects the minds of those who read it, leading to obsession, madness, and even death. Its influence transcends the fictional world, impacting real-world artists and creative works.
The Repairer of Reputations: This story details Hildred Castain's obsession with the play and his manipulation by Mr. Wild, leading to murder and Hildred's confinement in an asylum. The story highlights the play's power to drive individuals to extreme actions.
The Mask: This story features Boris, a sculptor who creates a substance capable of turning living things into marble. Genevieve, Boris's wife, and Alec, a painter, are also affected by the play, leading to tragedy and death. The story illustrates the play's influence on artistic creation and relationships.
The Court of the Dragon & The Yellow Sign: These stories exemplify the play's relentless pursuit of its victims. The stories demonstrate the king's pervasive presence and its inevitable consequences for those touched by its influence. The "yellow sign" acts as a literal symbol of the king's power.
Influence on Media: The King in Yellow mythos has significantly impacted various media, including literature (H.P. Lovecraft), graphic novels, music, video games (e.g., Mass Effect, Dark Souls), and television (True Detective).
