The Shadow in the Well

Introduction

“The Shadow in the Well” is an unfinished draft by Robert E. Howard, portraying the high-seas adventures and treacheries of a pirate crew led by the formidable John Groshawk. Set on an eerie, secluded island, this draft captures the essence of pirate folklore mixed with elements of dark magic and mystery.

Unfinished story, 3200 words. A complete synopsis also exists.

Summary

In this draft, John Groshawk, a pirate captain, oversees his crew on a mysterious island where they seek hidden treasure, rumored to be cursed and protected by dark forces. Steve Clarney, a strong and defiant captive, finds himself at the mercy of Groshawk and his crew but holds onto his fierce independence despite his bonds.

Nell Brent, a prominent female pirate known for her courage and quick temper, initially saves Steve’s life. She plays a complex role, navigating her position among the pirates while dealing with Groshawk’s harsh leadership. The crew includes various distinct characters such as Mike Bellefonte, a formidable pirate with a bull’s shoulders, and others who each add to the rough dynamics of pirate life.

The plot thickens as Nell and Steve form an unlikely alliance, planning to escape or overtake Groshawk. Their adventure leads them to an ancient temple described in ominous detail, suggesting the presence of supernatural elements linked to the treasure. The draft breaks off as they approach this temple, leaving the resolution of their quest and the true nature of the treasure shrouded in mystery.

Characters

  • John Groshawk – The pirate captain of the crew, ruthless and commanding, driven by the search for a legendary treasure.
  • Steve Clarney – Known as “Big Steve,” a captive who remains defiant against Groshawk and allies with Nell Brent.
  • Nell Brent – A bold and quick-tempered woman pirate who navigates her precarious position within the crew with both courage and strategic cunning.
  • Mike Bellefonte – A physically imposing pirate, loyal to Groshawk, known for his strength and aggression.
  • Le Coste – A French pirate, part of Groshawk’s crew, noted for his nervous hands and tarnished finery.
  • Juan the Butcher – A half-breed from Costa Rica, marked by his distinctive physical appearance and grim demeanor.
  • Peter Ord – A pirate who retains airs of a gentleman despite his fallen circumstances.
  • Solomon Deas – Notorious for his vulture-like demeanor and part of the crew’s lower ranks.
  • Other Pirates – Including Bill Deal, Jeremy Fletcher, Dick Bain, Ash Stark, and Joab Godfrey, each adding to the crew’s dangerous and diverse makeup.

Compararing the synopsis and the draft

Comparing the synopsis and the draft of Robert E. Howard’s “The Shadow in the Well” reveals several key differences in structure, detail, and development of the plot and characters. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

Plot Structure and Content

Synopsis:

  • The synopsis outlines a complete story arc. It includes Steve’s capture, his alliance with Nell Brent, their journey through the island, encounters with other pirates, and discovery of a supernatural entity in a temple. The story concludes with the monster emerging from the well, attacking the crew, and Steve and Nell escaping as the pirates flee the island.

Draft:

  • The draft provides a more detailed and extended narrative but remains unfinished. It focuses more on character interactions and the setting, delving deeper into the tensions and dynamics among the pirates. The draft ends as Steve and Nell approach a mysterious temple, leaving their encounter with the supernatural elements unresolved.

Character Development

Synopsis:

  • Characters in the synopsis are briefly described with their roles and relationships outlined to progress the plot. Nell Brent’s role as a rescuer and ally to Steve is clear, and Groshawk’s leadership and search for the treasure are central to the narrative.

Draft:

  • The draft offers much richer character development. John Groshawk’s menacing nature and pirate ethos are vividly portrayed through his actions and dialogue. Nell Brent is shown as a complex character, struggling with her standing among the crew and her feelings towards Steve and Groshawk. Additional characters like Mike Bellefonte and Solomon Deas are given more personality and backstory.

Setting and Atmosphere

Synopsis:

  • The setting in the synopsis serves primarily as a backdrop to the action, with brief mentions of the island and the temple. The supernatural element is presented matter-of-factly as part of the plot’s climax.

Draft:

  • The draft spends more time building the atmosphere of the pirate world and the mysterious island. Descriptions of the environment, such as the forest and the temple, are more detailed, aiming to create a palpable sense of place and tension.

Supernatural Elements

Synopsis:

  • The supernatural is central to the synopsis, with the entity in the well serving as the main antagonist by the end, directly influencing the story’s outcome.

Draft:

  • While the draft hints at supernatural elements, particularly with references to the cursed treasure and the eerie temple, it does not explicitly introduce the supernatural entity from the well, as the narrative cuts off before reaching that point.

Conclusion and Resolution

Synopsis:

  • Provides a clear ending with the pirates’ escape from the island and the resolution of the conflict with the supernatural entity.

Draft:

  • Leaves the story open-ended without a conclusion, focusing more on developing the adventure and suspense leading up to an anticipated but unwritten climax.

Overall Impact

  • Synopsis: Offers a concise and complete tale suitable for quick understanding and appeals directly to fans of adventure and supernatural pirate stories.
  • Draft: Provides a richer, more immersive experience with greater depth in character and setting, though it lacks closure due to its unfinished state.

This comparison highlights how the synopsis and the draft serve different purposes: the synopsis provides a complete but compact version of the story, ideal for gaining an overview or pitching the concept, whereas the draft, though incomplete, offers a more engaging and detailed exploration of the narrative and characters, aiming for a fuller literary experience.

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