A recently unearthed ghost story by acclaimed author Graham Greene has been published in the Strand Magazine, offering readers a rare peek into the darker side of the renowned 20th-century literary figure. The short tale, titled Reading at Night, appears in the 75th issue of the New York literary quarterly, known for rediscovering and showcasing “lost” works of well-known writers.
Alongside Greene’s eerie narrative, the magazine also presents a little-known short story by Ian Fleming, the famed creator of the James Bond series. The publication of these stories sheds light on a different aspect of the authors’ storytelling prowess, diverging from their more familiar genres.
Greene’s ghost story, written around 1962 during a less prolific period of his career, takes readers on a journey of childhood fears and imagined horrors experienced by a solitary traveler in the midst of a stormy night on the French Riviera. The narrative stands out from Greene’s usual repertoire of psychological and political thrillers, showcasing his versatility as a writer.
Andrew F Gulli, managing editor of the Strand Magazine, praised Greene’s skill in captivating readers with a blend of entertainment and drama. He highlighted the author’s ability to subtly blur the line between genres, creating a tale that is both playful and chilling, reminiscent of Greene’s earlier foray into supernatural storytelling.
The protagonist in Greene’s story grapples with long-buried fears triggered by a series of mysterious events in a rented house on the Côte d’Azur. As he navigates through a stormy night armed only with a book of ghostly tales, the line between reality and imagination becomes increasingly blurred, culminating in a suspenseful and eerie narrative.
Gulli revealed that the manuscript of Greene’s story was discovered in the archives of the Harry Ransom Center library at the University of Texas at Austin, underscoring the serendipitous nature of its publication. The story’s themes of solitude and the uncanny resonated with the editor, who emphasized the relatability of experiencing strange occurrences while traveling alone.
Meanwhile, Fleming’s contribution to the magazine, titled The Shameful Dream, offers a departure from his iconic spy thrillers, delving into a tale of suspense and social observation. The story, devoid of the usual Bond-esque glamour, showcases Fleming’s versatility as a writer capable of transcending genre boundaries.
Both Greene’s and Fleming’s stories serve as a testament to the enduring appeal of short fiction and the ability of master storytellers to captivate audiences across different genres. The publication of these works in the Strand Magazine adds new dimensions to the literary legacies of these iconic authors, inviting readers to explore the lesser-known facets of their storytelling prowess.