 Horror/Scary: March 05, 2025 Issue [#13013] |
This week: One Detail Makes a Difference Edited by: Dawn Embers  
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Horror/Scary Newsletter by Dawn
One detail can make a big difference when it comes to showcasing a setting or creating an atmosphere for the reader. This can help show the reader when it comes to the genre, including horror. |
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When it comes to many different aspects of life and genres, one detail (the right one) can make a big difference. Take the song I Think We're Alone Now into consideration. It can seem like a cute or romantic song. However, when a person lip syncs to the song and they are dressed up like the clown from the movie It... That gives it a very creepy feeling. It could be any horror movie villain and it would change the experience one would have from listening to that song.
In movies, sometimes the tone is set with the ambience or background music. If not music, the types of noises that come about and people feel the need to investigate (slasher movies in particular). There could be an item shown lying around somewhere or showcased that later becomes the weapon and cause for fear.
There are also the stories where things start off with a single hint. Other aspects look almost normal, to give a connection to the world and maybe a sense of possibility that everything is normal even when the reader is well aware that something has to happen due to the genre they enjoy. It is that thing or element creating the sense of foreboding that something is going to come but the what isn't known yet. If you can create that sensation or experience, it's a good one for a scary story.
Now, I will also admit that it takes more than one item to connect with a genre. That is known and accepted by us writers. However, that doesn't mean we can't have particular single ones that make a big difference.
This can also apply to characters. While sharing the details about the character to help the reader paint a picture of the person in their head, or maybe put together a snapshot/photo to help envision them going through the actions of the story, it doesn't have to be twenty details. There are going to be times where one detail will make a big difference. For the crazy killer in slasher movies, that might be their weapon. Like how I still remember the guitar with the drill on the end of it. Then there is the mask or makeup. What about a red balloon? I mean, sure the clown makeup with the creepy look and particular costume are set ups too for that story but one can even be reminded of the movie It by just a red balloon. That includes me and I've never seen it.
Consider what details will make a lasting impression when it comes to your character or horror story. Write it down and let us know how it goes. |
| | | The Bush (13+)
Roots run deep in the bush. But you'll have to run faster.
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Is there a particular detail that you have used in a story to make it fit the horror genre?
Just a few weeks ago, I wrote a newsletter about the horror genre in relation to writing and music. It was a nice chance to showcase a band while also discussing how one can use writing for inspiration in creating music, or one can use music and performances to inspire writing stories. Here is a comment sent in by another member:
Comment by S 🤦  :
I use a lot of music as prompts for stories. And, as primarily a horror writer, it is interesting just how a story can go horror. For example, I turned Shakin' Stevens' 'This Ole House' into a zombie dystopia.
But going the other way, The Alan Parsons Project did a whole album based on Edgar Allan Poe's stories: Tales Of Mystery And Imagination (1976). Best track is probably 'The Tell-Tale Heart.' Iron Maiden have done a few, 'Murders In The Rue Morgue' (Poe) and 'Phantom Of The Opera' (the book by Leroux, not the musical) being the best (IMHO). And I can't forget 'Pet Sematary' by The Ramones, based on King's book.
- Thanks for sharing your method along with the Alan Parsons Project. I'll have to look that up, along with the song from the Ramones.
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