Clive Barker: 'Mister B Gone'

After a brief hiatus in which Clive Barker dabbled in various other media forms such as graphic novels, television, film and even video games, he has finally returned to his most celebrated playground of literature. Barker has long been a notorious figure thanks to the classic series of ‘Hellraiser’ films. Initially adapted from novella, ‘The Hellbound Heart’, the film has remained etched in the minds of all who have seen it. Dealing largely in themes of religion, sexuality and sado-masochism, audiences have been compelled and repelled in equal measures.

Many assumed that Clive Barker’s writings must deal in the same matters, and have unfairly dismissed him as a low-rent horror scribe. The truth is that Barker has a gift of imagination that is most potent when dealing with the darker side of fantasy-horror, but that he is also equally deft at describing matters of beauty, emotion and human instinct.

Therefore, it is a surprise to find that ‘Mister B Gone’ is ultimately quite a short and shallow read. Following the exploits of a demon named Jakabok, as he journeys through hell and earth, the story is sparse on detail and thus remains free of any lasting impact. It’s an entertaining read, that much is in no doubt, but you will surely forget it as soon as you drop off the last paragraph. One can only hope that this is simply a warm-up novel to get the rusty writing gears turning before Barker once again returns with a truly involving novel worthy of his reputation.

Published 23rd October 2007 by Harper Voyager.

Written by Molly Stewart.