The Formless Spawn are creatures which appear in H. P. Lovecraft’s Cthulhu Mythos.
Description[]
Somewhat similar to a Shoggoth, the Formless Spawn are amorphous creatures composed of an acidic tarry black substance which is extremely difficult to harm. Whilst in a state of rest, they appear as pools of black oil, but when roused to action are capable of assuming a variety of forms to suit their purpose; for example, they may extrude tentacles, form solid walls, or simply ooze between the cracks of a building to get to their prey.
Formless Spawn are found in the service of Tsathoggua, residing in specially-constructed basins in the Great Old One’s temples, where they sit waiting for any who may come to defile these unholy places.
History[]
The origins of the Formless Spawn are unknown, but they are hinted in At the Mountains of Madness to be an alien species, presumably travelling to this world alongside their master. However, another account states that they were birthed by the Great Old One Sfatlicllp, although which version is true is anybody’s guess.
Appearances[]
- The Mound (1929), by H.P. Lovecraft and Zealia Bishop.
- At the Mountains of Madness (1931), by H.P. Lovecraft.