Description
“The Shining” is a horror novel written by American author Stephen King. It was first published in 1977 and has since become one of King’s most iconic and enduring works. The novel is known for its chilling portrayal of a haunted hotel and its impact on a family that becomes its caretaker.
The story follows Jack Torrance, a struggling writer and recovering alcoholic, who accepts a job as the winter caretaker of the historic Overlook Hotel in the Colorado Rockies. Jack moves to the hotel with his wife Wendy and their young son Danny, who possesses psychic abilities known as “the shining.” As the family becomes isolated by the harsh winter, the supernatural forces lurking within the hotel begin to manifest, exploiting the vulnerabilities of each family member.
The novel is a masterful exploration of psychological terror and the unraveling of the human mind. King’s vivid descriptions and meticulous character development draw readers into the Torrance family’s increasingly disturbing experiences. As Jack succumbs to the malevolent influence of the hotel, Danny’s psychic powers become a key element in the family’s fight for survival.
“The Shining” delves into themes of addiction, family dynamics, and the nature of evil. It combines supernatural horror with a deep psychological examination of its characters. King’s evocative prose and his ability to create a sense of dread and unease have made “The Shining” a classic of the horror genre.
The novel was adapted into a highly successful film of the same name directed by Stanley Kubrick in 1980, although King himself was critical of certain aspects of the adaptation. In 2013, King published a sequel titled “Doctor Sleep,” which follows the adult life of Danny Torrance.
“The Shining” remains a staple in contemporary horror literature, praised for its intricate storytelling, memorable characters, and the unsettling atmosphere that King masterfully creates.
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