An Analysis on Horror

Horror stories have been around for about the same amount of time that storytelling itself has. Whether it’s as a part of a culture’s beliefs or just something for scaring your friends, there is something alluring to horror. But some horror stories are better than others, and these stories usually incorporate a few different methods that really sucks the reader in and leaves an impression.

First, a good horror story must be a good story first. When it comes to books, the horror should only be one element in it. There shouldn’t be a complete dependence on being dark, gruesome, or disturbing. Instead, it should follow a similar structure to any other story, it should have characters, plot and conflict, with proper development for all three. Otherwise, it comes off as the literary equivalent of a jumpscare.

Now for shorter stories, like ones often found online, I would say to incorporate the reader into the story. This is tricky to do with a novel, but is easier to do with the online format. When you make the reader a character in the story, they are instantly drawn into it. Since they are now more invested in the story, they are much more susceptible to the horror aspect of the story.

When it comes to description in horror, less is more. People’s imaginations will be able to create more horror than any amount of words you could put down. However, you don’t want to be too vague. So, give the audience just enough information so that their minds can take it from there. But, be careful not to be too descriptive or else you won’t leave enough room for variation. They also play with the audience’s expectations, so that the reader is almost always on edge.

Horror is a popular genre, and has room for a lot of creativity. So if you’re creating horror, no matter what medium it may be on, think about these elements. They will help to create the atmosphere you’re looking for.

By Jonah Schneider, FCC Student, FCC Tutor