Horror Genres and Sub-genres | A DISCUSSION
Have you ever started a horror novel and struggled to clearly define what category it slotted into? Yes, well you my friend, are in the right place. This discussion piece will be split into four parts and will aim to narrow down the sub-genres with an info sheet to make it easier.
What is in a horror novel and just how can it be categorized? It’s certainly a difficult dilemma. I don’t shy away from the fact that I’m a massive geek and i love an amazing graphic to highlight my point! I’ve always thought that horror is an outstanding genre that shows the depths of both depravity and the human condition. I love it!
This genre can be a maze of different genres but it sure was fun researching this post. This won’t be a concise list as it will change with different readers but this is how I personally see it.
WEEK 1 – GORE AND DISTURBING
I started with this as most horror sub-genres have an element of gore or disturbing themes contained within. This genre however seems to go over and above what you would collectively expect from a traditional horror novel. I have included; Torture, Splatter, Cannibal and Extreme.
What is your favourite sub genre in the horror genre? What makes you love it or enjoy it the way you do? Let me know in the comments.
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7 Comments
Rosepoint Publishing
definitely not a fan of horror, but am a fan of Dean Koontz
9siduri
I like horror that relies on atmosphere. Not really into gore. Humor is a plus, though. Yeah, I know. I’m impossible to please.
Priscilla Bettis
Oddly, I can handle extreme horror better than torture. I think because torture is more likely in real life, and true crime makes me sad. Extreme horror goes to the ridiculous, and I’m okay with that. But my favorite horror subgenre is Gothic horror. Oh, I love an eerie, atmospheric, slow-burn, well-crafted story like Cavendish’s The Garden of Bewitchment or Hall’s The Taxidermist’s Lover. I’m including Southern Gothic, too, like Davidson’s The Boatman’s Daughter.
coycaterpillar
Agree with all your points. Torture really is harrowing to read. I also love Cavendish’s work, I need to read more of it!
hemmiemartin
I’m not a horror fan but have enjoyed Gothic reads such Anne Rice – Interview with a Vampire.
coycaterpillar
I also adore Gothic. I have interview with a Vampire and Shirley Jacksons The Haunting of Hill House on my shelf that I really need to get to!
Martie
I too am a gothic fan. However, only read horror at Halloween.