1982's Creepshow was one of its kind when it was released as a horror anthology that had everything from killers to monsters. It also allowed famous horror icons to give their creative input, such as its director George A. Romero and writer Stephen King. But while each story covered a wide spectrum of horror, its writer, King, still managed to bring in one tale that tied into his storied universe. Based on King's short story Weeds, "The Lonesome Death of Jordy Verrill" starred King in a tale about a man who encountered a meteorite that crashed in his yard.
After he touched the rock, his skin began to sprout alien weeds over himself and anything he touched. At first, it seemed harmless enough until it began to grow uncontrollably, becoming itchy and aggressive. In the end, after the growths had turned Jordy into something of a moss monster, he chose to kill himself by shooting himself with a shotgun. Though Jordy's torture was over, the alien green spread across his yard and down the street, leading to the nearest town of Castle Rock, only five miles away.
Castle Rock Is an Important Stephen King Location
Similar to Derry in It, Castle Rock was another small town set in King's universe that was the subject of many terrifying supernatural events. One of the best examples of this was the torment that Leland Gaunt inflicted on the town in Needful Things, where his story of priceless possessions nearly destroyed Castle Rock. The Dead Zone was another King story set in the town, and it saw a man who had clairvoyant visions based on touch have to face dangerous threats.
Castle Rock, as a town, wasn't considered cursed in the way Derry was with the presence of Pennywise. That said, there were still events that occurred in and around the town that would make anyone assume the worst of the town. For example, Cujo, the tale of a dog that turned violent and rabid, took place outside of Castle Rock. The events of Cujo were even mentioned in Pet Semetary, which showed just how much of a reputation Castle Rock and the surrounding area could carry.
Jordy Verrill's Story Proves the Danger of Stephen King's Universe
"The Lonesome Death of Jordy Verrill" was a short story but one that captured the sheer danger of living in King's universe. While Castle Rock may be a beacon for strange and deadly occurrences, it was far from the only place. For example, even staying in a hotel like the Overlook wasn't without its dangers. There was also the threat of the Boogeyman, making even the concept of sleep and darkness something that had to be treated with caution.
While universes like Star Wars and the Marvel Cinematic Universe have inherent dangers and risk of attack, King's universe may still be the most brutal. Whether driving a car or buying a dog, to be in King's world would mean that anything that can go wrong will. Nevertheless, even in a world with danger at every turn, it's still one of the most unique hubs for horror, as it's left no stone unturned when it comes to horrifying things.