Friday’s Fiction Review – The Amityville Horror by Jay Anson

“The Amityville Horror,” written by Jay Anson, is a non-fiction account of the Lutz family’s harrowing experience in a haunted house in Amityville, New York. Published in 1977, the book quickly became a bestseller and has since spawned numerous adaptations in film and other media. The story is notable not only for its chilling narrative but also for the controversy it has stirred regarding the authenticity of the events described.

Summary

The book begins with the Lutz family—George, Kathy, and their three children—moving into a seemingly idyllic house at 112 Ocean Avenue in December 1975. Unbeknownst to them, the house had been the site of a gruesome mass murder a year earlier, where Ronald DeFeo Jr. killed six members of his family. Almost immediately after moving in, the Lutzes begin to experience a series of disturbing phenomena, including strange odors, cold spots, unexplainable noises, and sinister apparitions.

George Lutz, in particular, seems to be profoundly affected by the house, growing increasingly irritable and obsessed with its history. The family also encounters various supernatural entities, such as a demonic pig-like creature and a malevolent presence in the basement. The situation escalates over 28 days, culminating in the Lutzes fleeing the house in terror, leaving all their belongings behind.

Themes

1. The Supernatural vs. Reality: One of the central themes of “The Amityville Horror” is the tension between the supernatural events reported by the Lutz family and the skepticism they face from the outside world. The book raises questions about the nature of belief and the limits of human understanding when confronted with the unknown.
2. Psychological Terror: Anson’s narrative delves deeply into the psychological impact of the haunting on the Lutz family. The gradual deterioration of George Lutz’s mental state serves as a focal point, illustrating how fear and paranoia can erode one’s sense of reality and self.
3. Family and Isolation: The isolation of the Lutz family in their new home is another prominent theme. Cut off from the support of friends and extended family, they are left to confront the terror alone. This isolation amplifies their vulnerability and heightens the sense of impending doom.

Literary Analysis

Anson employs a straightforward, journalistic style to recount the Lutz family’s ordeal, lending a sense of credibility to the narrative. The book is structured chronologically, with each chapter detailing the increasingly bizarre and frightening occurrences. This linear progression builds tension effectively, keeping readers on edge as they anticipate the next supernatural encounter.

The use of detailed descriptions and direct quotations from the Lutz family and other witnesses adds to the book’s authenticity. However, some critics have pointed out that the lack of corroborating evidence and the sensational nature of the events described cast doubt on the veracity of the account. Despite this, Anson’s skillful storytelling keeps readers engrossed, whether they view the story as fact or fiction.

Critical Reception

“The Amityville Horror” received mixed reviews upon its release. While some praised it for its suspenseful and engaging narrative, others criticized it for its dubious claims and sensationalism. The book’s popularity, however, was undeniable, as it tapped into the public’s fascination with the paranormal and the unexplained.

Over the years, various investigations and legal battles have further muddied the waters regarding the authenticity of the Lutz family’s story. Nonetheless, “The Amityville Horror” remains a significant work in the horror genre, influencing countless other books, movies, and TV shows.

Conclusion

“The Amityville Horror” by Jay Anson is a compelling and eerie account of one family’s encounter with the supernatural. Whether one views it as a true story or a masterful piece of fiction, the book’s impact on popular culture and its contribution to the horror genre are undeniable. Anson’s narrative captures the essence of fear and the unknown, making it a timeless and haunting read.