Robert Aickman (1914–1981) was an English writer known for his supreme work in the genre of supernatural fiction. Often referred to as "ghost stories," Aickman's tales are better characterized as "strange stories," as he preferred to call them, due to their enigmatic and often ambiguous nature. His writing style is subtle, sophisticated, and marked by a sense of psychological depth and unsettling atmospheres. Aickman's works rarely provide clear explanations for the eerie happenings they describe, leaving much to the imagination and interpretation of the reader. In addition to his writing, Aickman was an active conservationist and co-founder of the Inland Waterways Association, an organization dedicated to preserving and restoring Britain's canal system. Despite his notable work in literature, Aickman was a cult figure during his lifetime, and it was only after his death that his work gained a larger audience and critical acclaim. Today, he is considered one of the great masters of the strange and supernatural tale, with a dedicated and growing following among aficionados of the genre.