Lost Souls (Brite novel)

Lost Souls is a gothic horror novel written by Poppy Z. Brite (later Billy Martin), published in 1992. It is Brite's debut novel and is known for its exploration of themes such as identity, sexuality, alienation, addiction, and the search for belonging within a subculture of vampires and other outcasts.

The novel centers around a runaway teenager named Nothing, who is drawn to a New Orleans bar called the Sacrifice. There, he encounters a group of enigmatic and often dangerous individuals, including a centuries-old vampire named Zillah, the brooding and artistic Ghost, and the hedonistic twins, Ann and Christian. These characters are searching for something, whether it be connection, power, immortality, or simply escape from their pasts.

Lost Souls is notable for its explicit depictions of violence, drug use, and sexuality, which contributed to its controversial reception and cult following. Brite’s writing style is characterized by its lyrical prose, vivid imagery, and unflinching portrayal of the darker aspects of human nature. The novel's setting, New Orleans, is also crucial, adding a layer of Southern Gothic atmosphere and decay to the narrative. While classified as horror, Lost Souls also incorporates elements of romance, coming-of-age, and dark fantasy. The story is told from multiple perspectives, allowing readers to delve into the complex motivations and desires of the various characters.