One common theme is the blurring of the boundaries between the natural and the supernatural. Ireland's rich folklore and ancient landscapes often serve as a backdrop for this. Another theme is the insignificance of humanity in the face of vast and incomprehensible forces. Just as in general cosmic horror, in Irish versions, humans are often left helpless against these otherworldly powers. For example, ancient Celtic deities or spirits that are far more powerful than humans can be a part of this.
Sure. 'The Third Policeman' by Flann O'Brien has certain elements that can be considered in the realm of Irish cosmic horror. It has a strange and dream - like quality where the laws of reality seem to be distorted, much like in cosmic horror where the normal order is disrupted by the incomprehensible forces of the cosmos. There are also some lesser - known Irish indie horror stories, often found in local anthologies, that deal with themes of the sea as a vast, unknowable entity which could be related to cosmic horror as the ocean can represent the infinite and terrifying unknown, much like outer space in traditional cosmic horror.
Many consider H.P. Lovecraft to be the one who wrote the 'first cosmic horror story'. His works, such as 'The Call of Cthulhu', are filled with elements of cosmic horror. He created a whole new style of horror that was centered around the idea of a vast and unknowable cosmos filled with terrifying entities that are indifferent to humanity. His writing was so unique that it inspired countless other authors in the horror genre.
Cosmic horror stories typically have elements like the vastness of space that makes humans seem minuscule. There are often eldritch abominations, which are grotesque and otherworldly creatures. The idea that there are forces out there that are so powerful and alien that they can't be reasoned with is also common. These elements work together to create a sense of unease and horror in the reader or viewer as they realize how small and powerless we are in the grand scheme of the cosmos.
To write a great cosmic horror story, focus on atmosphere. Make the reader feel small and insignificant in the face of cosmic forces. Also, introduce elements of the unknown that can't be easily explained or understood.
Well, the significance lies in its departure from traditional horror elements. Instead of ghosts or vampires, it focused on the cosmos. This 'first cosmic horror story' expanded the scope of horror. It was like opening a door to a whole new realm of fear where the laws of nature as we know them don't apply. It changed how horror could be perceived, making it more about the unknown and the insignificance of humanity in the grand scheme of the universe.
Well, a typical theme is the breakdown of reality. In tvtropes cosmic horror stories, the normal rules of the world start to crumble. This can lead to a sense of disorientation for the characters and the readers. Also, there's the theme of isolation. Characters might find themselves alone in the face of the cosmic horror, cut off from any real help or understanding. And then there's the theme of the unending cycle of horror, where the horror just seems to keep coming no matter what the characters do.
Yes, it can be considered as one. 'Death Stranding' has elements of cosmic horror. The strange and otherworldly creatures, the sense of isolation in a vast and desolate landscape, and the mystery surrounding the events all contribute to a feeling of cosmic unease. For example, the BTs (Beached Things) are these strange entities from another dimension that are both terrifying and not fully understood, much like in traditional cosmic horror where the unknown is a major source of horror.
The BTs. They are a key factor. They are from another realm and their appearance and behavior are very alien. Just seeing them is a source of horror. They seem to defy the laws of our world, like they can pull things into their dimension.