18 Aug Book Review of Why I Love Horror: Essays on Horror Literature
Why I Love Horror: A Journey Through the Shadows
As a longtime lover of storytelling, I’ve always found myself drawn to genres that push boundaries and explore the human psyche. When I stumbled upon Why I Love Horror: Essays on Horror Literature edited by the insightful Becky Siegel Spratford, I felt an electric pull. Here was an anthology that promised not just to delve into the mechanics of horror but to unravel the very essence of what makes this genre resonate so deeply with us. And let me tell you, it didn’t disappoint!
From the very outset, this collection enthralls you with the sheer breadth of voices included. Think of it as a literary dinner party packed with some of horror’s most articulate advocates—Tananarive Due, Stephen Graham Jones, Hailey Piper, and more—all offering their candid reflections on what horror means to them. I was captivated by how each essay resonated against my own experiences, often mirroring my journey into the genre.
A standout essay from Stephen Graham Jones encapsulates a theme that runs throughout the anthology: the profound inclusivity of horror. "We love it together," he writes, reminding us that our shared fascination with the macabre creates a community that nurtures, challenges, and binds us. This resonated on a personal level, as I recalled my own evolution from a pretentious reader scoffing at genre fiction to one who finds solace and truth within the chilling narratives of horror. It was like hearing echoes of my own transformation reflected back at me.
The essays vary in perspective and tone, sometimes introspective, other times narrative and anecdotal. For example, Tananarive Due’s compelling plea for representation in horror inspires a deeper empathy, allowing readers like me to perceive the world through varied lenses. Meanwhile, Cynthia Palayo’s brutally honest exploration of using horror as a shield against the harshness of reality struck a nerve. I found myself nodding in agreement, as I too had often leaned into fictional horrors to escape the unpredictability of life.
And then there’s the writing style across these essays—each contributor brings their own flair while still maintaining a cohesive thread of urgency and curiosity. The conversational tone connects you to these authors as if they were revealing their secrets over coffee. You can practically feel their passion radiating from the pages, pulling you into their personal histories and the idiosyncratic ways they grapple with fear.
Let me also take a moment to highlight Gabino Iglesias, who just GETS IT. His reflections on horror aren’t just academic; they’re visceral, making the reader feel the pulse of the genre in their very bones. Each essay not only offers insights but also encourages readers to consider their own relationship with fear and storytelling.
So, who will find value in Why I Love Horror? If you’re already a horror aficionado, this anthology is a treasure trove of revelations and kindred spirits. For those still on the fence about the genre, it serves as a beautifully written invitation that may just change how you perceive it, revealing layers that go beyond mere scares.
As I closed this book, I felt a warm kinship with the authors within it. Their reflections compelled me to look back on my own tentative steps into horror and how it has woven itself into my life. More than just essays, this anthology feels like a celebration—a community welcoming you into the shadows. If you’ve ever felt an inkling of fear or fascination for the dark, this book is for you. You belong here, and trust me, you’ll love every minute spent in this hauntingly beautiful space.
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