The Mask (Chambers short story)

"The Mask" is a short story by Robert W. Chambers, appearing in his collection The King in Yellow (1895). It is part of the first section of the book, consisting of interconnected stories that are less overtly supernatural than the second half.

The story focuses on Alec, a struggling sculptor, and his model, Carmilla. Alec becomes obsessed with creating the perfect marble mask of Carmilla, believing it will bring him fame and fortune. He subjects Carmilla to grueling posing sessions and increasingly isolates himself from the outside world in pursuit of his artistic vision.

As Alec works, Carmilla exhibits disturbing signs of physical and mental deterioration. Her skin becomes pale and waxy, and she grows increasingly listless. Alec, blinded by his artistic ambition, fails to recognize or address her declining health.

The narrative explores themes of artistic obsession, the exploitation of others for personal gain, and the destructive power of unchecked ambition. It also subtly hints at the potential for unseen, malevolent forces influencing the characters' actions. The story ends with a disturbing revelation regarding the nature of the marble mask and Carmilla's fate, leaving the reader to question the true cost of artistic perfection.