The Open Door, and the Portrait. Stories of the Seen and the Unseen.

The Open Door, and the Portrait is a book written by Mrs. Oliphant. The story revolves around a family's experience with a haunted house and a mysterious portrait. The narrator, an old man, shares his account of the strange events that occurred at Brentwood, their temporary home. He describes how his son, Roland, began to hear voices and see apparitions, which led to a series of inexplicable and terrifying events. The narrator, determined to uncover the truth, conducts his own investigation and eventually discovers the source of the haunting. Meanwhile, the story also explores themes of family, relationships, and the complexities of human emotions. In contrast, The Portrait is a separate story that focuses on the narrator's return home after being away for a while. He finds his father occupied with business matters and becomes concerned about the family's tenants, who are struggling to pay their rent. As he delves deeper into the issue, he discovers a mysterious portrait of his mother, which sparks a series of strange and unexplainable events. The book is a thought-provoking exploration of the human experience, delving into themes such as love, loss, and the complexities of family relationships. Through the two separate stories, the author masterfully weaves together elements of mystery, suspense, and emotional depth, creating a captivating narrative that engages the reader's imagination and empathy. The characters are well-developed and relatable, with the narrator's introspective nature and emotional struggles making him a compelling protagonist. The author's writing style is descriptive and evocative, painting vivid pictures of the settings and characters that draw the reader into the world of the story.