Introduction
John Darnielle is a prolific artist who has made a name for himself in the music and literary worlds. He is best known as the lead singer and songwriter of the Mountain Goats, a band that has been active since the 1990s. In addition to his music career, Darnielle is also an accomplished novelist, with several critically acclaimed books to his name. He is also known for his love of horror movies and his fascination with the occult. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore some of Darnielle’s top songs, novels, and his infamous Devil House.
Top Songs by John Darnielle
“This Year”
One of Darnielle’s most popular songs, “This Year,” is a powerful anthem about overcoming adversity. The song tells the story of a young girl who is determined to survive despite the challenges she faces. With its driving beat and catchy chorus, “This Year” has become a fan favorite and a staple of Darnielle’s live shows.
“No Children”
“No Children” is a darkly humorous song that explores the complexities of a failing relationship. The song’s narrator is bitter and resentful towards his partner, and the lyrics are filled with biting sarcasm and black humor. Despite its bleak subject matter, “No Children” is a fan favorite and has become one of Darnielle’s most beloved songs.
John Darnielle Novels
“Wolf in White Van”
“Wolf in White Van” is Darnielle’s debut novel, and it was a finalist for the National Book Award in 2014. The book tells the story of a man who has suffered a disfiguring injury and retreats into a world of imagination and fantasy. The novel is a haunting exploration of loneliness, trauma, and the power of the human imagination.
“Universal Harvester”
“Universal Harvester” is Darnielle’s second novel, and it was published in 2017. The book is set in the Midwest in the late 1990s and tells the story of a video store clerk who discovers strange footage on some of the store’s rental tapes. The novel is a haunting meditation on loss, grief, and the ways in which we try to make sense of the world around us.
Devil House
What is Devil House?
Devil House is a mysterious and infamous house located in Claremont, California. The house is said to be haunted by the ghost of a young girl who died there in the early 20th century. John Darnielle has been fascinated by Devil House for years, and has even written a song about it (“The Legend of Chavo Guerrero”).
John Darnielle and Devil House
Darnielle has been vocal about his fascination with Devil House, and has even visited the site several times. He has posted about the house on social media, and has even joked about buying it. Darnielle’s interest in the occult and horror movies makes Devil House a natural subject for him, and his song “The Legend of Chavo Guerrero” is a testament to his fascination with the house and its dark history.
Conclusion
John Darnielle is a multi-talented artist who has made a significant impact on both the music and literary worlds. His songs are powerful and emotionally resonant, while his novels are haunting explorations of the human psyche. And his fascination with Devil House is just one example of his love of the macabre and the mysterious. Whether you’re a fan of his music or his writing, there’s no denying that John Darnielle is a unique and compelling artist.
