As the title implies I ask for no creepypastas. I want legitimate horror by legitimate authors.
A while ago I read the story "I Have No Mouth and I Must Scream" by Harlan Ellison. Without giving too much away, this was balls to the wall, nerve-shattering, hell-filled, eternal horror in the form of a science fiction setting. I cannot comprehend the magnitude, time, and insanity of it. One of the few stories I've read where the horror genuinely comes off atmospherically speaking on the first few pages. Sets a tone which doesn't exactly let up either. I have to nominate this, despite my love for King, Lovecraft, Bradbury, and numerous others. Though Bradbury does have a special place in my heart for "The Scythe" and "The Small Assassin" for their badass endings and "The Wind" for horror.
That being said, post some more you can think of from your favorite authors.
A while ago I read the story "I Have No Mouth and I Must Scream" by Harlan Ellison. Without giving too much away, this was balls to the wall, nerve-shattering, hell-filled, eternal horror in the form of a science fiction setting. I cannot comprehend the magnitude, time, and insanity of it. One of the few stories I've read where the horror genuinely comes off atmospherically speaking on the first few pages. Sets a tone which doesn't exactly let up either. I have to nominate this, despite my love for King, Lovecraft, Bradbury, and numerous others. Though Bradbury does have a special place in my heart for "The Scythe" and "The Small Assassin" for their badass endings and "The Wind" for horror.
That being said, post some more you can think of from your favorite authors.