Gay horror fiction stories often focus on the experiences and fears specific to the gay community. For example, they might explore the fear of rejection or violence because of one's sexual orientation. Mainstream horror is more general.
One difference is that gay horror fiction stories can offer a different perspective on horror. They can use the horror genre to deal with issues like coming out, which is not something mainstream horror typically tackles. Also, the characters in gay horror fiction are often more diverse in terms of sexual orientation and gender identity compared to the more heteronormative casts in mainstream horror. The settings and the sources of horror can also be more closely related to the gay experience, such as gay bars or Pride events being the backdrop for horror in gay horror fiction stories.
Cult horror stories differ from mainstream horror in several ways. Firstly, their production values can be quite different. Mainstream horror often has big budgets and polished visuals, while cult horror may be more low - budget and rely on creativity to make up for it. For instance, 'The Blair Witch Project' was made on a shoestring budget but still managed to be extremely terrifying. Secondly, cult horror stories can be more ambiguous in their endings. Mainstream horror usually has a more straightforward conclusion. And finally, cult horror stories are more likely to be influenced by underground or alternative cultures, which gives them a distinct flavor that mainstream horror doesn't always have.
Science fiction horror stories are different from regular horror stories in several ways. In science fiction horror, there is often a sense of discovery and exploration. The characters are usually dealing with something new and unknown that is based on science, such as a new form of energy that has unexpected and terrifying effects. Regular horror stories may focus more on the psychological or the supernatural. Science fiction horror also has the potential to be more thought - provoking as it can question the role of science and technology in society. For example, stories about artificial intelligence turning on humanity are both science - fictional and horrify by making us think about our relationship with technology. Moreover, the settings in science fiction horror are more likely to be extraterrestrial or involve advanced scientific facilities, while regular horror stories are more likely to be set in more common, earthly locations like an old house or a forest.
Science - fiction horror stories often involve some kind of scientific or technological element that drives the horror. For example, in 'Alien', it's the advanced alien biology and the technology of the spaceship. Regular horror stories might rely more on traditional horror tropes like ghosts or serial killers. In science - fiction horror, the threat could be a genetically engineered monster or a malfunctioning artificial intelligence. So, the source of fear is different.
Gothic horror fiction short stories usually have elements such as the supernatural, mystery, and a gloomy atmosphere. In contrast, some other horror stories may rely more on gore or sudden scares. Gothic horror often delves deep into the psyche of the characters, exploring themes like madness and the power of the unknown. For instance, in Poe's works, the horror comes not just from the events but from the inner turmoil of the characters. The use of archaic language and settings in gothic horror sets it apart as well, creating a feeling of a bygone era filled with dread, while other horror forms can be more contemporary in style and language.
Asian horror stories often focus more on psychological horror and the build - up of tension. In Western horror, there might be more emphasis on gore and direct violence. For example, in Asian horror like 'The Ring', it's the slow - building dread that gets to you. In Western horror, something like 'Saw' is more about the immediate shock of brutal violence. Also, Asian horror frequently involves ghosts and spirits based on cultural beliefs, while Western horror has more monsters like vampires and werewolves.
Existential horror stories focus more on the internal struggle of the characters regarding their existence, identity, and purpose. In traditional horror, it's often about external threats like vampires or ghosts. For example, in an existential horror story like 'The Metamorphosis', Gregor Samsa's transformation into a bug makes him question his human identity. While in a traditional horror, say a slasher movie, the focus is on the killer chasing and trying to harm the victims. Existential horror is more about the psychological and philosophical dread that comes from within.
Anal horror stories often focus on more grotesque and taboo body - related themes compared to other horror stories. While regular horror stories might deal with ghosts or serial killers, anal horror stories may involve things like body horror in a very specific area of the body.
Furry horror stories often involve anthropomorphic animal characters. So, instead of regular human victims, you have characters like a fox or a wolf. For example, in a regular horror story, a person might be chased by a ghost in a haunted house. In a furry horror story, it could be a bunny being chased by a spectral hound. The setting might also be more related to places where furries might live, like a forest village or a magical meadow.
Cult fiction books often have more niche or unconventional themes. For example, they might deal with really strange or dark ideas that mainstream fiction would shy away from. They also tend to attract a more dedicated and passionate following, almost like a club of fans who really get the book on a deeper level. Mainstream fiction usually aims for broader appeal and more general themes.
Literary horror stories rely on words to create fear. They often use detailed descriptions of settings, characters' emotions, and the horror elements. For example, in a book, the author can spend paragraphs describing the eerie atmosphere of an old, decrepit mansion. In contrast, horror movies use visual and auditory effects. A movie might show a jump - scare with a loud noise and a sudden appearance of a monster. Also, readers of literary horror have more freedom to imagine the horror elements in their own way, while movie viewers are presented with a more fixed vision.