Well, in 80s horror novels, the 'Woman in Black' is a character full of enigma. She often has a silent and menacing presence. Her appearance is not just about her black attire but also about the way she moves and the look in her eyes. She is a source of pure horror, not relying on gore but on creating an atmosphere of unease and fear. Her actions are often unpredictable, which adds to the overall sense of horror in the novels.
Black horror novels also tend to have complex and nuanced characters. Their protagonists are often black individuals who are not just victims but also fighters. They navigate the horror, whether it's a supernatural force or a social evil, while also dealing with their own racial identity and the challenges that come with it. In works like 'The Ballad of Black Tom', the main character has to battle against both the Lovecraftian horrors and the racism of the society he lives in.
Often, they explore themes of race and identity. The black female vampires may face discrimination not only as vampires but also due to their race. For example, in 'Fledgling', the main character has to navigate a complex world where her existence as a vampire is already marginalized, and her being a black woman adds another layer of complexity.
The woman in white in Victorian horror novels often represents mystery and the supernatural. She is usually depicted as a pale, ghostly figure, wearing white clothing which gives an otherworldly appearance. Her presence is typically associated with unease and foreboding, often being a harbinger of doom or a symbol of a past wrong that cannot be undone.
The woman in black in ghost novels is often depicted as a figure of mystery and horror. She usually has a pale complexion, long black hair, and is dressed in black. Her presence often brings a sense of dread and foreboding.
In terms of the romance aspect, the chemistry between the black woman and the white man is often intense. Their different perspectives on life, love, and relationships add depth to their connection. There's usually a lot of discovery, as they learn about each other's likes, dislikes, and the little quirks that make them unique. The novels may also highlight the importance of communication in such a relationship, as they bridge the gap between their different worlds.
Another characteristic is the diverse range of love interests. They can be from different ethnic backgrounds, which showcases interracial relationships. Also, these novels usually depict the strong will and independence of the plus - size black woman. She is not just a passive character waiting for love, but an active participant in her own romantic life, facing challenges and growing along the way.
The 'Woman in Black' novel from the 80s is a great read for horror fans. It has a slow - building sense of horror. The way the author describes the settings, like the old, dilapidated house and the surrounding marshes, adds to the overall creepiness. And the woman in black herself is a symbol of something very dark and foreboding.
Another characteristic is the unique perspective on future worlds. Black woman science fiction authors may imagine futures that are different from the typical white - male - dominated science - fiction visions. They might envision worlds where black culture has a more prominent role, or where the power dynamics are more equitable. These works can offer new ways of thinking about how society could evolve, and they often bring to light issues that might be overlooked in more mainstream science - fiction. For example, they might explore how climate change affects different racial and gender groups differently, or how new forms of governance could be more inclusive of black women.
Many of them had a focus on psychological horror. For example, in some novels, the real horror came from the minds of the characters rather than just external monsters. It made the readers feel more involved as they could relate to the psychological states.
Elsa Mars was desperate for fame. She had a motherly side to some of the 'freaks' but also a self - centered side. She was vain about her appearance and was willing to sacrifice a lot, including the well - being of those around her, in order to achieve stardom.