Don’t Whistle!

A very short but entertaining read; leaves one feeling a little sombre.

Oh, Whistle, and I’ll Come to You, My Lad is one of M. R. James’ most renowned ghost stories, included in his collection “Ghost Stories of an Antiquary,” published in 1904. The title is derived from a poem by Robert Burns, suggesting a summoning or invitation, which is a crucial element in the plot.

Plot Summary

The story centers on Professor Parkins, a skeptical and rational academic specialising in the field of archeology. He goes on a golfing holiday to the East Coast of England, during which he discovers an ancient whistle at a site of historical interest. Out of curiosity, he blows the whistle, which sets off a series of eerie events that grow increasingly sinister. Parkins experiences unsettling dreams, disturbing visions, and ultimately a terrifying encounter with an apparition.

Themes

• Skepticism vs. Supernatural: The tension between rationality and the supernatural is a central theme. Professor Parkins represents a scientific approach to life, dismissing the idea of ghosts or the supernatural. However, as the story unfolds, he is forced to confront the reality of the eerie occurrences.
• Isolation and Loneliness: The setting contributes to a sense of isolation. The bleak coastal landscape and the quiet, sparsely populated hotel where Parkins stays create a sense of loneliness that amplifies the story’s eerie atmosphere.
• The Power of the Unknown: The whistle serves as a conduit for the supernatural, representing the danger of meddling with things we don’t fully understand. It also alludes to the idea that ancient artifacts can carry a hidden or cursed power.

Characters

• Professor Parkins: The central character, whose skeptical nature and academic background set him apart from the superstitious beliefs he encounters. His journey from skepticism to fear is at the heart of the story.
• The Apparition: A shadowy figure that becomes more tangible and threatening as the story progresses. This character’s haunting presence is both mysterious and chilling.
• The Colonel: A fellow guest at the hotel, providing a contrasting perspective to Parkins. He is open to the idea of the supernatural and warns Parkins about his risky explorations.

Style and Structure

• Atmospheric Writing: M. R. James is known for his ability to create a sense of creeping dread. The descriptions of the setting, especially the desolate coastal environment, enhance the feeling of unease.
• Subtlety and Suggestion: The story doesn’t rely on overt horror but instead builds tension through subtle details and suggestions of something lurking just out of sight.
• Gradual Unfolding of Mystery: The narrative structure allows for a slow build-up of suspense, with key moments of revelation that gradually increase the sense of danger and urgency.

Conclusion

Oh, Whistle, and I’ll Come to You, My Lad is a masterful ghost story that uses atmosphere, suggestion, and the conflict between skepticism and the supernatural to create a compelling narrative. M. R. James’ skill in evoking a sense of fear and dread without explicit violence or gore is what makes this story a classic in the genre.

Image: McBryde, James (1904) The Laws of Shadows https://www.spectator.co.uk/article/illustration-the-laws-of-shadows Lloyd-Parry, Robert, Spectator, 30th October, 2010, (Accessed 25th April, 2024).