Today (May 21) is the birthday of Manly Wade Wellman (1903-1986). Wellman is best remembered for his stories of John the Balladeer.
Wellman’s work reflects the beliefs and people of the Appalachian Mountains. He found rich inspiration in their folklore and legends, of which the John the Balladeer stories are only part of that body of work. Wellman truly found his authorial voice with these stories.
Wellman also wrote some stories that featured Ntive American characters. They are a small portion of his output. I like the Appalachian stories better than the ones that focus on Native American folklore.
Most of Wellman’s output was short stories and novellettes. He didn’t write many novels. Five of those featured John the Balladeeer.
What Wellman stories are among your favorites?
I always liked “Larroes Catch Meddlers.” And I listened to the radio version of “The Twilight Zone’s” fine adaption of “Still Valley” last night. Wonderful stuff! (Okay, I like it all!) A while back I got a copy of his posthumous collection “The Valley So Low.” Wellman said he liked writing horror because “I like to see their eyes pop.” Those stories do just that!