You probably might think that horror only exist in TV shows and films. But, you should know that there are also thousands of horror fiction books written by brilliant authors that are meant to frighten and excite the readers. Some of the shows and movies that you see on the screen are, in fact, adapted from horror books. So, what could be the best definition of horror fiction? Horror fiction is a rich genre of literature that is known for its ability to scare and repulse the readers through its thrilling story.
Carrie by Stephen King, World War Z by Max Brooks, The Silence of the Lambs by Thomas Harris, The Missing Medium by Joab Stieglitz, and Coraline by Neil Gaiman are some of the best examples of horror fiction. Moreover, there are many outstanding elements that these books have, which became the reason why many readers tend to patronize them. These aspects include the following.
They have an amazing set of characters
You might see this as a common factor in stories that are beyond the horror fiction genre, but great set of characters is the key to a well-driven tale. The tension and conflict of the story are being dealt with them; hence, they are definitely essential in every story. Horror fiction showcases a great bunch of characters that aims to connect with the readers by living up to the expectations, showing their traits, and accomplishing their motives. That is why this genre showcases many characters with cool backstories, different perspectives in life, good characteristics, and other realistic traits. The closer they are to reality the more they can elevate the quality of the story and impact the readers; and, that is what horror fiction has been doing all along.
They utilize the core elements of tragedy well
There are many horror stories that focus the spotlight to tragedies and other unfortunate events. The mishaps alone can increase the thrill and magnet the attention of the readers, how much more taking advantage of that event? Horror fiction has been utilizing the center aspects of tragedy for a while now, where some parts of it have already become tropes or clichés. But, these core elements contribute to the story by increasing tension, developing characters, captivating readers, inflicting lessons, and improving the uncanny events. This awesome trait of the story reminds everyone that flaws and mistakes can turn into a great lesson.
They connect into the usual human fears
People have different fears. The common aspects that most individuals are afraid of are heights, spiders, darkness, dogs, holes, narrow spaces, oceans, and more. With these factors, horror fiction found a way to utilize and incorporate them to give readers thrilling and exciting stories. Even the fear of the unknown can craft a good horror story. The way writers tapped into these phobias are exceptional, because they made the fictional story closer to reality resulting into a better reading experience and impact. These
They evoke different kinds of intense emotions
Horror typically generates different feelings, such as shock and disgust. But, it doesn’t only focus on extracting intense fear but also abhorrence and astonishment. The different literary devices used by stories, such as foreshadowing, suspense, allegory, and more. Combining these devices with the other elements of the story, they can successfully evoke a lot of intense emotions from the readers. The more they dive into the story, the deeper the connection becomes. Readers will crave for more events that can alleviate their feelings and thirst for the resolution of the conflict. Nothing could definitely top the feeling of reading a story and experiencing fear, surprise, excitement, and thrill all at once while on the way to turn each page.
Horror fiction is indeed a one-of-a-kind genre. Its aspects and traits justify its popularity. Readers who are fond of reading horror stories and even those that aren’t surely have a place in their book shelves for horror books. The characteristics of horror fiction works are enough reason why people should check them out. Aside from the, every story brings not just the peculiar and strong feelings but also the fun and learning that are essential products of reading.
Oliver’s Twist 