Prohnoossians

The Prohnoossians were a fictional race of humanoid beings created by the American writer H. P. Lovecraft in his 1928 short story *"The Whisperer in Darkness."* They are one of the earliest examples of Lovecraftian extraterrestrial life, characterized by their alien biology, advanced technology, and eerie, otherworldly nature.

According to the story, the Prohnoossians originated from the distant star system of Procyon, which they had colonized long before human discovery. They were described as tall, gaunt humanoids with elongated limbs, large heads, and a pale, almost translucent complexion. Their most striking feature was their elongated, tubular snouts, which they used for breathing and vocalization. Their eyes were notably large and reflective, giving them an unsettling appearance.

The Prohnoossians possessed advanced knowledge, including the ability to manipulate gravity and energy fields, as well as a deep understanding of astronomy and mathematics. However, their society was not purely benevolent; they were depicted as secretive and potentially hostile, with a tendency toward manipulation and deception. Their arrival on Earth in the story was met with fear and confusion by the human characters, who struggled to comprehend their motives.

Lovecraft’s portrayal of the Prohnoossians reflected his broader themes of cosmic horror, emphasizing the insignificance of humanity in the face of vast, incomprehensible forces. Their inclusion in *"The Whisperer in Darkness"* also introduced elements of extraterrestrial contact and alien invasion, which later became staples of science fiction and horror literature. While the Prohnoossians themselves did not appear in many of Lovecraft’s other works, their concept influenced later writers and creators in the genre.