Well, in most horror genres, the source of fear is something relatable at some level. For example, in a horror movie about a serial killer, we can understand the basic motives of the killer like revenge or madness. But in cosmic horror novels, the sources of horror are often incomprehensible. They might be ancient, alien forces that don't follow the rules of our world. The fear in cosmic horror is not just about being in danger but about the very fabric of our reality being threatened. It's like in 'At the Mountains of Madness', the things the characters discover in Antarctica are so alien and so beyond our normal conceptions that it creates a different kind of horror than a simple ghost story.
Literary horror fiction often focuses more on psychological aspects. While other horror genres like slasher films or some pulp horror novels rely on gore and jump scares, literary horror delves deep into the characters' minds. For example, in 'The Yellow Wallpaper', the horror comes from the main character's mental breakdown. It's not about a monster chasing her but her own internal struggle.
Cosmic horror visual novels often focus on the vastness and incomprehensibility of the universe. For example, in a normal horror visual novel, the threat might be a serial killer or a haunted house. But in a cosmic horror one, it could be an ancient and powerful entity from another dimension that defies human understanding. So, the source of horror is much more abstract and far - reaching in cosmic horror visual novels.
Folk horror differs in that it has a strong connection to the land and local history. Other horror genres like psychological horror are more about the inner workings of the mind. Folk horror stories usually have elements that are specific to a particular region's folklore. They might involve local spirits, old gods, or unique superstitions. In contrast, a lot of mainstream horror is more general in its scares and can be set anywhere. Also, folk horror often has a slower build - up. It's not about immediate jump scares like some horror movies but rather about creating an atmosphere of dread over time related to the long - forgotten past of a place.
Splatter horror novels focus more on extreme gore and graphic violence. While other horror sub - genres like psychological horror might rely on suspense and mind games, splatter horror throws all that at you in a very in - your - face way. For example, in a slasher - type splatter horror novel, there will be detailed descriptions of blood spatter and body mutilation.
The 'Anatomy of a Horror Story' has a unique plot structure compared to other genres. Horror plots tend to have a slower build - up. They introduce elements of the unknown gradually. For example, in a mystery, the clues are presented to solve a problem, but in horror, these 'clues' are more about creating unease. Also, horror stories often end with an open - ended or ambiguous feeling, leaving the reader or viewer with a lingering sense of dread, which is different from the more conclusive endings in many other genres.
Morals in horror stories are sometimes more extreme and visceral. Since horror deals with fear and often death, the morals can be about the most basic human instincts. In contrast, in a mystery genre, the moral might be about justice and truth - seeking. But in horror, it could be as simple as not trespassing in a haunted place because it could cost you your life. The impact of not following the moral is much more immediate and life - threatening in horror.
Psychological horror graphic novels are distinct from other horror genres in that they often rely on atmosphere and the unknown. For example, in 'The Walking Dead', while there are physical threats like zombies, the real horror comes from the psychological toll of living in a post - apocalyptic world. The characters have to deal with moral choices, the loss of humanity, and the constant fear of not knowing what's around the corner. In contrast, a more traditional horror graphic novel might just be about a straightforward monster or villain. Psychological horror delves deeper into the human psyche and how it responds to abnormal or terrifying situations.
In 'John Belton Horror and Science Fiction', it may stand out from other works in the same genres in multiple aspects. Firstly, the storytelling approach could be different. It might use a non - linear narrative to build suspense and confusion, which is not common in all horror and sci - fi works. Secondly, the themes explored could be more profound or unique. For example, instead of the typical 'good vs. evil' in horror, it could explore the moral ambiguity of characters in a science - fiction - horror hybrid situation. Also, the world - building in this work could be more detailed and immersive. It might create a more believable and complex universe that combines the elements of horror and science - fiction in a seamless way, which sets it apart from works that just scratch the surface of these two genres.
American Horror Stories often uses a lot of pop - culture references and modern - day fears. For example, it might touch on things like social media obsession or the paranoia of modern living, which sets it apart from more traditional horror shows that rely mainly on classic horror tropes like ghosts and vampires. Also, the visual style of American Horror Stories is very distinct, with vivid and sometimes over - the - top set designs and makeup that enhance the horror experience.
One major difference is the way it plays with different time periods. American Horror Stories often jumps between different eras, which adds a layer of complexity. Some other horror shows tend to be set in a more modern or single - time - period setting. The visual style of American Horror Stories is also distinct. It has a very high - contrast, moody look that really emphasizes the horror. The acting in American Horror Stories is also quite different. The actors are often required to play very extreme and complex characters, which sets it apart from more traditional horror acting.