Stephen King, often hailed as the “Master of Horror,” has established an enduring legacy in the world of literature, with a vast body of work that includes over 60 novels and 200 short stories. Throughout his career, King has crafted tales that dive deep into the human psyche, often intertwining everyday life with the uncanny and terrifying. A signature element of King’s storytelling lies in his ability to tap into the dark recesses of the mind, examining how it reacts when confronted with harrowing and often inexplicable situations.

King’s personal life and experiences have significantly influenced his tales. He was born in Portland, Maine, in 1947, which frequently features in his narratives. In his memoir, “On Writing,” King candidly discusses various inspirations behind his stories. He openly admits to some of his own phobias, providing a window into the sources of the visceral emotions his characters often experience. “The Ledge” showcases King’s unique capability to draw horror not from fantastical monsters or ghosts but from everyday situations and fears. Notably, King has confessed to having acrophobia, a morbid fear of heights. This personal dread becomes evident in “The Ledge,” where the story’s tension doesn’t emanate from a supernatural presence but rather from a raw, universally recognizable fear.