The Classic Tales Podcast · B.J. Harrison

Ep. 1102, The Repairer of Reputations, by Robert W. Chambers VINTAGE

January 6, 2026·1 hr 28 min·5 clips

Hildred describes the paralyzing horror he felt after reading the cursed second act of The King in Yellow.

In an alternate 1920s America, narrator Hildred Castaigne descends into madness after reading the cursed book 'The King in Yellow,' believing himself heir to a secret imperial dynasty. He conspires with the mysterious Mr. Wilde, who repairs reputations through blackmail, while society grapples with the opening of government-sanctioned lethal chambers. The story builds to a violent climax as Hildred's delusions threaten everyone around him.

As heard by us

A stately descent from public order into private dread.

Robert W. Chambers sets the story in a future that looks calm and prosperous on the surface, with the government’s first lethal chamber already open and waiting.

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Why you'd press play

If you want civilized narration that slides into delirium, start here.

Read the full recommendation in PlayNext →

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