Clive Barker (b.1952) is a British visual artist, author, and filmmaker, best known for his contributions to the horror and dark fantasy genres. While he has gained fame for his macabre stories, his creative pursuits extend to poetry, essays, plays, and children’s literature.
Born in Liverpool, England, Barker studied English and philosophy at the University of Liverpool. His initial foray into the literary world resulted in the critically acclaimed short story collection Books of Blood (1984,) establishing him as a master of horror fiction. This series showcased his talent for crafting chilling tales that seamlessly blended horror, fantasy, and philosophical themes. Barker further ventured into filmmaking with the adaptation of his novella The Hellbound Heart, which gave rise to the iconic horror film Hellraiser (1987.)
Barker’s artistic prowess also encompasses painting and visual art, with his works displayed in galleries worldwide, adding another dimension to his creative portfolio. Over the years, he has continued to produce an impressive body of work, including novels such as Weaveworld (1987,) The Great and Secret Show (1989,) the world-spanning Imajica (1991,) and Sacrament (1996.) Beyond literature and art, Barker’s talents have transcended into the realms of video games, comic books, and various multimedia projects, further expanding his influence and reach.
More: Wikipedia • READ: Works by Clive Barker
Any fool can be happy. It takes a man with real heart to make beauty out of the stuff that makes us weep.
—Clive Barker
Darkness has always had its part to play. Without it, how would we know when we walked in the light?
—Clive Barker
If you want to look like the people next door, you’re probably smothering yourself and your dreams.
—Clive Barker
To you who have never died, may I say: Welcome to the world!
—Clive Barker
Topics: Dying, Death
In the end, following the Dark Road is no less honorable than following the Light, as long as it is done with a clear purpose.
—Clive Barker
Gather experience… Look at what you should not look at. A feeling of anxiety is the sure and certain evidence that you should do this.
—Clive Barker
Topics: Anxiety
There are some people, you know, who are too important to ever be forgotten.
—Clive Barker
You cut up a thing that’s alive and beautiful to find out how it’s alive and why it’s beautiful, and before you know it, it’s neither of those things, and you’re standing there with blood on your face and tears in your sight and only the terrible ache of guilt to show for it.
—Clive Barker
Topics: Guilt
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