Holly, Jolly, Humbug from Krissy Knoxx (plus free books!)
A New Paperback Coming Soon!
Exciting news for Krissy Knoxx fans – Sylvie’s Summer of Scary Sh*t is coming out in paperback very soon.
Stay tuned for more news in December.!
Grab a copy of the ebook and leave a review for others readers.
Grab a mug for sipping your brew whilst reading scary books too!
Unlocking the Chambers of Imagination: The Use of Fear in Horror Writing
In storytelling, especially in horror writing, fear shapes the contours of our narratives. Horror is where fear is not just a theme but a visceral force that breathes life into the darkest corners of imagination. As a writer, I take readers on a journey through the labyrinth of fear, employing it as both muse and medium to craft tales that produce spine-tingling, heart-pounding reactions.
Fear in horror writing is not confined to the presence of monsters or haunted landscapes. It also resides in the delicate dance between anticipation and revelation. It’s the art of twisting emotions, threading suspense through each sentence, and building a symphony of terror that crescendos with the turning of each page.
As I use fear in writing, it’s important to recognize strategies to handle our fears beyond the realm of fiction. Life has scary moments. Reading scary things can help neutralize the impact of real fears. Horror writing can be a roadmap for understanding, confronting, and ultimately triumphing over fear.
The Essence of Fear and How to Handle It
Handling fear involves understanding it, managing your emotions, and taking practical steps to address the source of your fear. Here are some strategies you can consider when a story gives you goosebumps long after you read the last page.
Identify the Fear:
Understand exactly what you are afraid of. Identifying the specific fear can help you address it more effectively. Maybe the character reminded you of one of your personal fears. Talk to a trusted friend and get their insights on what may be the underlying cause. Sometimes, sharing your feelings can provide relief and offer a different perspective.
Dive into introspection, asking yourself tough questions. Identifying the source of fear empowers you to confront it directly. This transforms the abstract into a tangible challenge that can be understood, addressed, and conquered.
Educate Yourself:
Learn more about the fear or the situation causing it. Sometimes, fear is rooted in the unknown, and gaining knowledge can help alleviate it.
As you become more aware of your fear, you gain insight and develop a mental arsenal of tools to keep yourself grounded in your personal strength. Knowledge becomes a shield, turning fear’s shadows into a well-lit landscape of understanding and resilience.
Challenge Negative Thoughts:
Analyze and challenge irrational or negative thoughts related to your fear. Ask yourself if there is evidence to support these thoughts and if they are based on reality.
Unmask the prankster within your thoughts. Challenge each negative notion with a detective’s scrutiny. In this mental courtroom, evidence is sought, and unfounded fears are dismantled, leaving you with a more accurate, grounded perspective. As you reframe your mindset, visualize the best outcome. Instead of focusing on what could go wrong, try to focus on what you can learn or gain from the experience.
Physical Activity:
Engage in regular physical activity, as exercise can help reduce stress and anxiety, making it easier to cope with fear. Take a walk or play with your pet. Do some housework or lift weights for a few reps to clear your mind.
Acceptance:
Accept that fear is a natural emotion. It’s okay to feel scared at times. Acknowledge your fear without judgment, and then work on managing it.
Remember, overcoming fear is often a gradual process, and it’s okay to seek support from others. If your fear is persistent and significantly affecting your life, consider reaching out to a mental health professional for personalized assistance.
Think About It Moment
What ways do you control your fears? How do you keep from fearing the shadows and things that go bump late at night? Take a look at this list of suggestions. Share your own in the comments. Tell us why you read horror.
Free Books for December
Again, the lists of free books here keep many indie authors working and providing readers like you with new stories to explore. Find your next favorite here. Click, download, and let others know to find good books by joining the Krissy Knoxx blog.
Thank you for your support. Please check back for more books on the blog as they are updated regularly.