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Writing in the horror genre is characterized by its focus on fear and suspense. Notable authors in the horror genre include Stephen King, H.P. Lovecraft, and Edgar Allan Poe. These authors are known for using vivid imagery, eerie settings, and twisted characters to create a sense of unease and horror in their readers.
In terms of style and strategies, Stephen King’s works often deal with everyday people facing supernatural or terrifying events. In contrast, H.P. Lovecraft’s works often focus on cosmic horror and the unknown. Edgar Allan Poe’s works are known for their gothic atmosphere and psychological horror.
To appeal to the horror audience, authors can use gore, violence, and jump scares, create relatable characters and build a sense of suspense. To appeal to publishers and filmmakers, incorporating popular themes such as zombies and ghosts can be effective.
Top 10 strategies to more successfully appeal to the horror market audience:
1 Use vivid imagery to create a sense of unease.
2 Build suspense by gradually revealing information.
3 Create relatable characters.
4 Incorporate popular themes such as zombies and ghosts.
5 Use gore and violence sparingly to maximize their impact.
6 Use jump scares strategically.
7 Create a sense of mystery and the unknown.
8 Use a variety of perspectives to keep readers engaged.
9 Experiment with different horror sub-genres, such as psychological or cosmic horror.
10 Play with the audience’s expectations and subvert them.The psychodynamic appeal of horror may be that it allows individuals to confront their fears and anxieties in a controlled manner. The psychosocial appeal is that it allows individuals to bond over shared fears and anxieties. Horror continues to gain an audience in Western cultures. In contrast, Eastern cultures tend to emphasize spiritual and supernatural elements more in the horror genre.