I’ve had my own share of bad things happen in my life, from broken homes to family deaths in less-than-pleasant circumstances to witnessing some tragic events, although I’m not sure it was on the same scale of what you’ve detailed. I’ve taken refuge in fantasy stories more than anything else, because it’s shown me that there’s always an alternative. I can’t remember whose quote it was, but someone described horror as good for children because “They’ve already been exposed to monsters. This is where they get to see that monsters can be killed” and that’s always struck a bit of a note to me.

My writing tends to take refuge in a bit of humour (and hopefully one day when/if more of my stuff is published I’ll be able to claim I’m a humorist or something) largely because I really can’t fathom why some things happen or why people do the things they do. There’s got to be some suitably illogical or ridiculous spin to it, so I try and make one up so what I’ve seen makes sense. Being able to control the horror in your writing sound like similar sort of motivation.

I’m still learning to love horror writing (on bright sunny days) to widen my repetoire. I’m hoping my current offering from Ticonderoga due out very shortly will ease me in…

Greg

Or maybe you simply enjoy it at pure face value, which is also totally fine.

All roads lead to horror! =)

Thanks for the very kind words. x

I’ve never really thought about WHY I read/write horror, but you have me thinking now. I’ve had a good life, fairly free from any sort of emotional trauma, and so I have none of the reasons you have. So why? Why do I enjoy reading and writing it so much? Your post makes me think I should examine that a little more.

Either way, your bravery in writing such a personal examination of yourself, and of the horror of literature and life, is incredibly moving. Thank you.

Lots of love,
Andrew