Stephen King’s latest literary offering, You Like It Darker, presents a captivating array of narratives, skillfully balancing chilling tales with profound meditations on themes such as mortality and existence. This collection, set for release in 2024, features a standout story that notably deviates from King’s usual tropes, providing a refreshing experience for readers.
Among the collection’s myriad stories, “Laurie”follows the journey of a recently widowed man named Lloyd. As he grapples with his profound loss, his sister introduces him to a dog—a gesture he initially resists. Over time, an inseparable bond forms between Lloyd and his new companion, Laurie. However, their tranquil walks take a dangerous turn when they encounter an alligator that tragically claims a neighbor’s life, raising the stakes as Lloyd and Laurie narrowly escape a similar fate. This premise heightens the tension, especially considering King’s notorious history of bleak outcomes for canine characters.
Stephen King’s History with Dog Deaths Engendered Anxiety While Reading “Laurie”
The Somber Reality of Canine Characters in King’s Works
Historically, King has been unsparing when it comes to the fates of dogs in his narratives. The author himself has admitted to a certain cruelty regarding canine characters, famously stating, “In some ways, I have been a little bit tough on dogs in my career”(via The Times). Iconic examples like Cujo highlight this harsh treatment, as the beloved St. Bernard succumbs to rabies. Disturbing dog deaths are a recurring element throughout acclaimed titles such as Gerald’s Game, The Dead Zone, and It, alongside many lesser-known examples dotting King’s extensive bibliography.
Given this pattern, my anticipation for “Laurie”was tinged with apprehension, as Lloyd, already reeling from his wife’s death, faced the prospect of losing his new canine companion shortly after their bond formed. While such a tragic turn could emphasize his grief, it seemed excessively harsh within a collection that already grapples with dark themes. Thankfully, King subverts his own trend in this tale, offering a much-needed respite.
The Surprising Bright Spot in You Like It Darker
The Heartwarming Essence of “Laurie”
In “Laurie,”despite the tragic demise of Lloyd’s neighbor, the narrative takes a heartwarming turn as both Lloyd and Laurie manage to return home unharmed. As a dog enthusiast, I felt an overwhelming sense of relief knowing that their fate was different. This unexpected positive outcome stands out starkly against the backdrop of King’s earlier works, where such reprieves are rare. It’s a bold choice that not only surprises the reader but also deviates from the grim twists typically associated with King’s storytelling, echoing a similar choice seen in his 2022 release, Fairy Tale.
While You Like It Darker presents several stories that leave readers with unresolved questions or tragic conclusions for main characters—like “Finn”and “Red Screen”—”Laurie”provides an uplifting counterbalance, making it a notable highlight of the collection.
Source: The Times