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'Pet Sematary' : Does it still hold up?

A look back at King's book through the lens of 2020.

By Ciarán ColemanPublished 3 years ago 3 min read
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The 1983 horror novel 'Pet Sematary' is undoubtedly one of Stephen King's greats, with a uniquely terrifying plot and iconic imagery. But do the scares hold up?

For the most part, yes.

The timeless horror of 'Pet Sematary' lies in how personal it is. Centred around the Creed family, the book explores themes of death, grief, the pull of power and family relationships. It's impossible to read it and not put yourself into Louis Creed's shoes as he copes with the tragedy and horror unfolding around him. King's writing is at top form too, with short chapters pushing the story forward and creepy imagery splashed across every page. You're instantly drawn into the story from the first few chapters.

But what about a little backstory? In 1979, King's house was adjacent to a major road, a road frequently used by large trucks. Pet's were often killed on this road, including his daughters's cat. Three days after he explained the death of the cat to his daughter and buried it, King imagined what would happen if a family's cat came back to life "fundamentally wrong". It was here the seed that would become what King himself called his most terrifying novel was planted. 37 years on, after two film adaptions and several re-issues, it still stands un-wilted.

So why does 'Pet Sematary' hold up so well?

There are numerous strengths to this novel, numerous reasons why it still remains one of King's best. Its concise plot keeps the story well structured and easily re-readable. The backdrop and attention to detail concerning the family dynamic means it doesn't fall into the trap of other King novels where the world feels too foreign or out of date for modern readers. Louis, the main character is flawed and relatable; King is great at creating realistic characters that react understandably in terrifying scenarios. The fear emitted throughout this novel is primitive and raw. The gore and unsettling imagery is mirrored by a psychological horror that stays with the reader long after he puts the book down. There's a heavy dread drenching this novel that you can feel drowning the characters from start to finish.

The relationship between some characters, particularly Louis and Jud Crandall is also incredibly well written and keeps the story flowing smoothly.

So where does it go wrong?

'Pet sematary's' flaws are few and far between but they are there nevertheless. The foreshadowing is a little overdone for one. It would’ve also served the story a bit better if there had been more emphasis on the history of the resurrections but overall these are only personal opinions; the same issues of mine might be its greatest strength to some one else.

Some, particularly parent's, might find the death of certain characters, (and really the whole book overall) extremely distressing. This is, of course, the intention as it is a horror novel but a lot of people do think King crossed a line with some of the topics. This story is not for the faint of heart.

To finish off, ‘Pet Symmetry’ holds up incredibly well and is definitely worth a look. The pacing and gruesome imagery stands out as some of King's best, with everything else fitting in nicely. It’s a relatively quick read, but one that stays with you long after you put it back on the shelf. Make sure you leave a light on when you give this book a read. Just to be safe, of course.

Rating: 8.5/10

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About the Creator

Ciarán Coleman

'There's no time for hatred, only questions

What is love, where is happiness

What is life, where is peace?

When will I find the strength to bring me release?'

- Jeff Buckley

Interested in me writing for you?

Gmail; [email protected]

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