Do Writers of Horror Fiction Think Differently Than Others?
Horror fiction has a unique allure that captures the imagination and evokes a mix of fear and excitement. For many horror writers, the genre is not just a means of storytelling but a source of intense stimulation that mirrors the rush experienced when engaging with thrilling entertainment like amusement park rides.
Stimulation and the Adrenaline High
A well-crafted horror tale can be a visceral experience, thrilling in a way that is almost reminiscent of a sexual excitement. For many horror writers, the act of writing itself involves a similar high, as the tension builds and the safety net is removed. This adrenaline rush is similar to the one felt during a roller coaster ride, where the thrilling experience of danger intensifies the sense of being fully alive.
The Role of Humor in Horror
Some horror writers, like myself, pepper their stories with touches of humor. Laughter, in this context, can be seen as a nervous reaction to something that temporarily makes our psyche uncomfortable. This can be observed in the phenomenon of hysteria, where laughter manifests as a manic response to sheer terror. Good horror fiction, therefore, mirrors this in the reader, invoking fear and, through the narrative, a burst of adrenaline that contributes to the overall excitement.
The Suspension of Disbelief
Most horror writers and fans are well aware of the fact that the horror they experience is not real; it is a carefully crafted fiction. Although it may push the boundaries of the believable, the line between reality and fantasy is maintained through the power of storytelling. Writers like myself who enjoy mild horor stories know that the macabre events, while unsettling, are a product of the imagination. This realization ensures that the fear experienced is part of the fictional narrative and not a reflection of real-life anxieties.
Varying Tastes in Horror Fiction
Not all horror writers push the boundaries of the genre in the same way. While some prefer to delve into more gruesome and explicit content, often centered around slow torture and violent deaths, my personal preference lies in psychological horror. These stories focus more on the mental and emotional torments rather than physical violence.
As a fan of horror, I, like many others, appreciate both mild and intense stories. While I enjoy exploring the psychological aspects of fear and the human psyche, my limits are more based on personal taste. I find zombie films and psychological thrillers fascinating, but I avoid the more graphic and disturbing elements, such as torture-porn movies like Saw. Most horror writers and fans, like myself, enjoy a nice safe scare that provides a thrilling experience without crossing into the realm of the truly horrific.
The Reality of Horror Enthusiasts
Many people assume that those who enjoy horror films and stories must have a dark sense of entertainment. However, this is often not the case. Most horror writers and fans are well aware that the fear and excitement experienced through fiction are artificial and mental constructs. This allows us to safely enjoy the excitement without fearing for our own well-being.
Understanding and Acceptance
While some individuals may find the subjects of dark and disturbing stories unsettling, the enjoyment of horror by writers and fans can be just as normal as the enjoyment of other genres. Just as history buffs find fascination in the extremes of historical events, horror writers are intrigued by the darker aspects of the human psyche. Being labeled as abnormal for enjoying certain types of horror is not unique to this genre; if someone enjoys classical music, for example, it would be questioned, but this enjoyment is widely accepted.
In conclusion, while horror fiction writers and fans may sometimes experience heightened emotional responses, these responses are a result of the narrative crafted by the writer and the willingness of the reader to suspend disbelief. The enjoyment derived from horror is a testament to the power of storytelling and the human imagination.