Salem's Lot - Discussion & Spoilers!

[Ben Mears]

I actually read this book last year and feel a bit on the outside when saying that I wasn't scared while reading it! I mean, I liked the story well enough, but it did not by any means make my top.
I actually thought Duma Key was spookier, strangely enough.

I agree. 'Salem's Lot doesn't hold up to modern times.

Really?? I just finished a re-read recently and I still enjoyed it immensely though, the culture at the time is dated compared to today, obviously but, the underlying theme's are timeless, IMHO

Outside of the culteral gap, which is mostly electronic anyway, I think the story holds up very well. The foundation of the story rests upon the residents of Jerusalem's Lot and the atmosphere that surrounds the town. It is the insular nature of The Lot and the foibles of its people that makes the story so effective and those elements are timeless.

[Merlin1958]

I actually read this book last year and feel a bit on the outside when saying that I wasn't scared while reading it! I mean, I liked the story well enough, but it did not by any means make my top.
I actually thought Duma Key was spookier, strangely enough.

I agree. 'Salem's Lot doesn't hold up to modern times.

Really?? I just finished a re-read recently and I still enjoyed it immensely though, the culture at the time is dated compared to today, obviously but, the underlying theme's are timeless, IMHO

Outside of the culteral gap, which is mostly electronic anyway, I think the story holds up very well. The foundation of the story rests upon the residents of Jerusalem's Lot and the atmosphere that surrounds the town. It is the insular nature of The Lot and the foibles of its people that makes the story so effective and those elements are timeless.

Well put Mr. Mears. Better job than I did!!! I love the elemental "Good vs Evil" dichotomy!!

[divemaster]

...I think the story holds up very well. The foundation of the story rests upon the residents of Jerusalem's Lot and the atmosphere that surrounds the town. It is the insular nature of The Lot and the foibles of its people that makes the story so effective and those elements are timeless.

I concur. Atmosphere, foreboding, mistrust, dawning realizations, crises of faith, and similar elements augment the characterizations that King brings to the page. Also, to me, this book is full of Horror. To folks these days brought up on Buffy or whatever else and go into 'Salem's Lot expecting a lot of dripping ghouls and AARRGGGG! and GRAAAHHHHHH! are likely to be disappointed. More's the shame.