The Thing on the Doorstep

The way the story delves into the blurred lines of self and other is haunting. I'm curious what influenced Lovecraft's fascination with these concepts.

The story gradually ratchets up the tension, which made the climax feel so much more intense. How did others experience the pacing?

The themes seem to suggest a universe indifferent or hostile to humans. What do you think Lovecraft was trying to say about our significance?