I'm glad this was my first ever H.P. Lovecraft story. He sure as hell knows how to scare you using nothing but an odd, feared creature, and an amazingly terrifying writing. 
 I didn't believe that such a short story could be so influential for other horror writers, and I didn't believe I'd enjoy it myself, but I was so wrong. The Call of Cthulhu has it all: scary atmosphere, unusual deaths, satanic cults, and a great narrator. 
 I feel like I should recommend you all a beautiful song that was inspired by this short story: Metallica's Call of Ktulu 
 In the book, the story says that mentioning the name Cthulhu (Verbally or written) will bring him closer. That's why Metallica used the name "Ktulu" and not "Cthulhu" - for fear of the beast. The song is only instrumental, and it's one of my favourite Metallica songs of all times. Enjoy.