Eric J. Guignard's Blog, page 41
April 7, 2014
GUEST BLOG: Between the Interstice — On Lovecraft and Weird Fiction by Mike Robinson
"Back then, with the visions, most of the time I was convinced I'd lost it. There were other times, though, where I thought I was mainlining the secret truth to the universe."
------------ Rust Cohle, True Detective
Behind the wide facade of Speculative Fiction twist the hedge-mazes of fantasy, brood the catacombs of horror and gaze the far-seeing floors of science fiction. Among them, between them, are the closets and crawlspaces of the niche, one of which -- a relatively bigger one -- is the place of Weird Fiction, a dark storage of many souvenirs from fantasy, horror and science fiction, though dusted with its own special charms.
The former subtitle for my new book, Too Much Dark Matter, Too Little Gray: A Collection of Weird Fiction was actually, A Collection of Speculative Fiction. As one prone to appreciate sprawling ambiguity, to resist specific categorization, it’s a little ironic that I wanted to specify further. But there was a reason for that, besides the stodginess of “speculative”, which has none of the zany, fluid charisma of “weird”.
While using “weird” may sound like a proud judgment, a literary outcast chest-thumping his identity as such, it’s more a direct homage to the tradition of Ambrose Bierce, Robert Chambers, H.P. Lovecraft and many others. Going further, it’s an accurate classification given my vision of Weird Fiction, a subgenre that, perhaps more consciously than other fields of speculative fiction, stirs together elements of the metaphysical, cosmological and horrific to grimly honor the Big Questions, remind us of our insurmountable ignorance, to pin down our squirming selves into our rightful position in the child’s seat, to whisper, maybe in some alien, mud-packed voice, that, hey, the world slippery and you won’t ever, ever catch it. The world, in short, is weird.And past all the horror, the strangeness, that to me is a nourishing thought. Let me explain.
The moment I cemented my decision to notpursue an M.F.A (or any academic training) in writing is vivid. While enrolled at Otis College of Art & Design, I found in my mailbox a little perfect-bound literary booklet featuring work by the graduate students in fiction. I flipped it open to a random story. After wading cautiously into the second paragraph of a painful scrutiny of eyebrow-plucking, I was done. Other entries weren’t much better. Too many of them seemed concerned with stereotypical, high-literary minutia, unfortunately the focus and baffling preference of innumerable professors, awards, journals, and workshops (cough-Iowa-cough).
My first sale, the story The Hand of Spudd
in Storyteller Magazine
Personally, I have little interest in quaint journalistic accounts of Malaysian transvestite violinists at the turn of the century (yes, I made that up), or the endless slew of aptly-termed “McFiction” featuring some cocky narrator coming of age amongst his or her overfed, dysfunctional family. No, I prefer going head-on at the Big Questions, going at them, as George Carlin might say, with no less than a sledgehammer. Give me ballsy confrontations with Life, Death, the Cosmos, with Existence, with God.
In their noble attempts at social redemption and inclusion, many contemporary teachers of literature treat writings in the framework of their political significance. To me, though, such attempts seem nothing more than new forms of division. It is looking at the grains and forgetting the shore. Does the world really need a Marxist reading of Huckleberry Finn, complete with ten-dollar jargon? Academics are on the lookout for the “next best thing”, the new trend in analysis, the new prism through which to see literary works of yesterday and today. I say: what about our shared heritage? Our shared -- and uncertain -- future? Not as any one ethnicity, gender, party, or faction, but as an entire civilization. A species. A collective piece of this vast Universe.
Of course, much of this material is studied, and much of it is exhaustively considered and written about. Enter Weird Fiction!
As any fellow devotee will know, H.P. Lovecraft -- arguably the most esteemed and influential practitioner of the genre -- cleaned out the catacombs with his pen, defying tropes of ghosts and vampires and expanding imaginations with interconnected tales of ancient civilizations antedating our own, of towering alien-gods, of unseen dimensions and humanity’s sanity-shattering smallness in an inexplicable cosmos. All this made more impressive by the fact that he wrote in the 1920s, when so much of that stuff was barely on anyone’s speculative radar, including scientists’. His unknowns are truly Unknown, and will forever elude explanation.
Certainly Lovecraft’s work has failings, failings probably more surface-level than those of other lauded authors. He was well aware of his own wooden dialogue (hence, quotation marks are scarce in his pages) and his prose sometimes gushes into the purple. Nevertheless, his voice, with its richly archaic, darkly celebratory cadence, stands alone, and will survive as long as we’re unsure what lurks “out there”.
Me suited up, scoping “out there”Sadly, Lovecraft, and especially his “Cthulhu” mythos, have become somewhat franchised, relegated to corners of the market generally aimed at Dungeons and Dragons fans, horror enthusiasts, and nihilistic young adults sporting black fingernails and lipstick. It is a wide “cult following”, but nonetheless a cult following. Although some scholars have acknowledged his importance, many see him as a troublesome bridge from Poe to Stephen King. It is this identity that has, I’m sure, dissuaded many from giving him a serious go. “Lovecraft? Oh, no, I don’t like that horror stuff.”But back up. Here we come back to the question of Weird Fiction itself, because I don’t necessarily consider the canon, or Lovecraft’s work, “horror”. Certainly there are horrific elements in his work, and his career does include several standard supernatural yarns. But in his treatment of cosmic mysteries, and the shadowed realms of prehistory, his is more a prying curious eye, forcing us to consider those Big Questions, to ponder notions of, and issues with, the likes of religion, biology, cosmology, archaeology, and psychology. He sets you on the outside looking in, a contrast to being in and looking further in to the point of navel-gazing. This exercise of outside-looking-in, one I believe most writers of fiction should undertake, helps in a kind of rounding out of thought.
No matter the genre in which one writes, I believe the best, most poignant stories have at least an undercurrent of this “larger awareness”, a perception conveying authority and wisdom. So many stories feel constricted by their own world, characters or concerns. Yet to read Lovecraft is to confront directly that raw Unknown that surrounds us, that is us. To get a healthy dose of perspective: a shambling, roaring, behemoth upswell of perspective.
I mentioned earlier that I think such a perspective can be ultimately nourishing. In an era of economic, cultural and political tumult, when millions of Davids the world over shout in fiery voice against the few far-reaching, corrupt Goliaths, there is morbid comfort in knowing that, despite whatever the megalomaniacal egos of sadistic leaders, immoral bankers, or bribe-pocketing politicians might make of themselves, there are impenetrable forces beyond all of them that will cast mocking eyes towards their suited-up, gold-rimmed delusions, if they even care to acknowledge them. Lovecraft, and the general tradition of Weird Fiction, reminds us just how little power the powerful actually wield. After all, Goliath was, what, ten feet tall? When the mountain-sized Cthulhu rises once more, those people will be nothing but scrambling ants -- along with the rest of us.
*** Find and follow Mike Robinson at:
Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Mike-Robinson/e/B009RDLX7K/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_pop_1
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/MikeRobinsonAuthor?ref=hl
March 11, 2014
Book Reviews (March, 2014)
For this month’s reviews, I thought I would focus on the publications of one press rather than those of an era or single author. This month’s subject is ERASERHEAD PRESS, the most prolific and energetic voice of contemporary bizarro fiction.
Bizarro fiction is a relatively new genre which is not entirely easy to define. It encompasses elements of satire, absurdism, and the grotesque, along with pop-surrealism and genre fiction staples, in order to create subversive works that are as strange and entertaining as possible.
Bizarro works are truly a mixed bag. Sometimes I’ll read a work and think it was revolting filth and sometimes I’ll read a work and find it to be a beautiful literary and socially relevant gem. Sometimes I’ll think both things simultaneously! What I love most about this genre is that, if nothing else, I will be entertained. The wonder of bizarro is that it doesn’t stoop to worn-out tropes or regurgitated storylines. These authors are hard boiled, willing to experiment, and write ideas that are stimulating, strange and, most importantly, unique.
Eraserhead Press, the premiere publisher of these book, is headquartered in bizarro central, Portland, OR, and championed by CEO, Rose O'Keefe. It also includes a dozen or more smaller imprints set up by associates, such as Deadite Press, Fungasm Press, and Lazy Fascist Press, amongst others.
Erasurehead Press is here: http://www.eraserheadpress.com
My personal favorite author to come out of the bizarro movement is Carlton Mellick III, who writes with the precise craft of any literary voice today, but puts out the strangest titles which are in turns geared toward horror, dark fantasy, alternative history, and science fiction. For EX: Satan Burger, The Haunted Vagina, War Slut and, my top bizarro pick, Zombies and Shit. Carlton is a writing machine, dedicated (mind-blowingly!) to a new book every three months. Generally, overly-prolific authors end up publishing a lot of dreck, but Carlton’s works are crisp, funny, and quite simply a consistently entertaining read.
Carlton Mellick III is here: http://www.carltonmellick.com
Which brings me to my first review:
***
REVIEWED: Quicksand HouseWRITTEN BY: Carlton Mellick III
PUBLISHED: June, 2013
Of the six or seven books I’ve read by this author, ‘Quicksand House’ is one of my favorites. It starts off as a mystery, in which two children are essentially locked in their baby room and raised by a nanny through puberty. Machines make their food and the children teleport to school, but they’ve never met their parents which is their dearest wish. The baby room is in the midst of an immense mansion, and scary things crawl in the walls, and myths and fears abound for them, wondering what lies outside the locked door. One day their mechanical life breaks down, and survival forces them to finally leave the baby room, searching through the rest of the house for their parents.
As always, Mellick’s writing is brilliantly imaginative, fast-paced, strange, and satisfying. This book is rather a bit more of an emotional coming-of-age experience rather than action-packed fiction ploy (not to say there’s not plenty of action and thrills included!). But the ending is beautiful and sweet, and swear-to-God, I choked up and a tear ran down my cheek after I closed the final page.
This is really a great book and, with themes such as self-acceptance, fear of abandonment, love, and family values, I think it deserves to find a wider audience than the traditional bizarro crowd. Though the children of Quicksand House encounter wild exploits, the story itself is engaging and relatable and exciting.
Five out of Five stars
http://www.amazon.com/Quicksand-House-Carlton-Mellick-III/dp/1621051005/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1394573022&sr=1-1&keywords=Quicksand+House
***
REVIEWED: The Last Goddam Hollywood MovieWRITTEN BY: John Skipp and Cody Goodfellow
PUBLISHED: August, 2013
‘The Last Goddam Hollywood Movie’ follows a group of Hollywood filmmakers who survive a nuclear apocalypse and then band together to create the first ever post-apocalyptic movie which (just as in real life) promises to accurately portray the events leading to the nation’s disaster, but instead creates a highly fictionalized concept which is at whim of finagling, backbiting, competing resources, and lots and lots of drugs. Peter Kornberg is a writer who gets hustled by his nemesis, Julian Harvey, to direct the film, and the novella-sized book follows the conflict between the two of them during the entire radiation and mutant-filled journey of production. Fast-paced and quick-witted, this would seem more fictionalized if it weren’t for the fact that the authors, John Skipp and Cody Goodfellow, have been involved in Hollywood flicks themselves, and the satirical commentary becomes even more scathing on who peoples the industry and how movies are really made.
Four out of Five stars
http://www.amazon.com/The-Last-Goddam-Hollywood-Movie/dp/1621050904/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1394568308&sr=8-1&keywords=The+Last+Goddam+Hollywood+Movie
***
REVIEWED: Son of a BitchWRITTEN BY: Wrath James White and Andre Duza
PUBLISHED: July, 2012
Intense, foul-mouthed, hard-punching, and wild, this story really is about the son of a bitch. The descriptively-named character is born half demon/ half canine, splitting his dog mother open at birth. Fused with Cuban black magic and the spirit of a local hitman, Warlock, the dog/ monster, goes on a murderous rampage, followed by the hood, Demitrius, who breeds dogs and is witness to the dog joining with Warlock’s soul.
Consider the dog/monster has similarities to a werewolf, albeit one that evolves and is seeking revenge. This is a quick read, at times funny and at times seething with violence. I never felt connected with any of the characters, but the plot kept me hooked all the way through. Lots of action and gore, and the ending was perfect. Good to read when you need to blow off some steam or suspect your family pooch might be hiding something malicious.
Four out of Five stars
http://www.amazon.com/Son-Bitch-Wrath-James-White/dp/1621051145/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1394576042&sr=1-1&keywords=Son+of+a+Bitch
***
REVIEWED: Super FetusWRITTEN BY: Adam Pepper
PUBLISHED: August, 2009
To say this book is offensive is to say that serial killers may have some personality flaws. Up front, I do not recommend this book to any person with even moderately conservative values or self-expressed ‘taste’ in literature. But for those of you who enjoy a gross-out tale or a redneck battle, ‘Super Fetus’ is for you!
This story is about a (you guessed it) fetus growing inside the uterus of a trashy, burned out woman who’s already a mother of three and cannot fathom raising a fourth brat. She decides to abort it, but the fetus has prematurely developed and is self-aware of his placement. Simply put, he ain’t coming out! Super Fetus fights all manner of abortion proceedings and even causes his mother to throw up any unhealthy foods. “Only salads and healthy foods for me!” He does pushups and punches back at anyone reaching in to pull him out.
It’s a crude and foul-mouthed tale, at times hilarious, at times terribly shocking and sad, but ultimately a fun and quick read, clocking in at only about 87 pages. Though the story could have been a lot more, it’s successful on its face value. I would have loved to read a bit more back story about the mysterious ‘father’ with no face, as to who he was and the potential of Super Fetus. But the ending is perfect for a follow up, so perhaps someday there may be Super Toddler!
Four out of Five stars
http://www.amazon.com/Super-Fetus-Adam-Pepper/dp/193392988X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1394568121&sr=8-1&keywords=Super+Fetus
***
REVIEWED: The Rising (author’s preferred edition/ uncut)WRITTEN BY: Brian Keene
PUBLISHED: September, 2013 (first published March, 2003)
Simply put, this is a zombie book. More than that though, it’s an adventure thriller and a classic in the resurgence of undead in popular culture. To underscore this point, as I read ‘The Rising’ I thought, “Gee, yet another linear zombie story. Main character searches for his son, meets motley survivors, and crosses lots with paramilitary groups, all the while blowing away killer zombies.” But as I thought this it also dawned on me that Brian Keene was one of the first authors to write this type of action zombie story, and the reason it seems so formulaic and familiar is because there have been a horde (pun!) of writers who have copied this idea and wrote their own zombie apocalypse tales, inspired by the likes of Keene. Besides books, Keene’s influence is also found in video games, comics, movies, and other media.
The edition of this review is the ‘extended cut,’ i.e. the author’s preferred edition, published ten years after the original, in which Keene returns about 35,000 words cut from the debut. The story is a page-turner and follows the paths of several different characters as their lives intersect in the quest for survival. Some of the main characters seemed rather flat (Jim and Frankie), while I found myself relating and rooting for more of the lesser/ secondary characters (Baker and Skip).
The one unique element in this book which is not usually seen is that these zombies (Potential PLOT SPOILER) are actually host bodies for demons, and so retain consciousness and can perform normal human activity such as driving cars, opening doors, and <gasp> fire rocket launchers. In addition to human zombies, the survivors must contend with animal zombies, which adds a whole new layer of fear, fighting off zombie rats, birds, and lions.
The Rising promises on zombie battle and delivers on that promise wholeheartedly. Overall, it’s an exciting read, filled with violence, gore, and many, many surprises.
Four out of Five stars
http://www.amazon.com/The-Rising-Authors-Preferred-Edition/dp/1621050920/ref=tmm_pap_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1394568213&sr=8-1
***
Midnight cheers,
Eric J. Guignard
_________________________________
Eric J. Guignard writes dark and speculative fiction from his office in Los Angeles. His stories and articles may be found in magazines, journals, anthologies, and any other media that will print him. He’s a member of the Horror Writer’s Association and the International Thriller Writers. Recent magazine publications include Buzzy, Beware the Dark, and Stupefying Stories TM. He’s also an anthology editor, including: Dark Tales of Lost Civilizations (2012, Dark Moon Books), which was nominated for a Bram Stoker Award®, and last year’s critically acclaimed release, After Death… (2013, Dark Moon Books). Read his novella, Baggage of Eternal Night (2013, JournalStone Publishing), and watch for many more forthcoming books, including Chestnut ’Bo (TBP 2015). Visit Eric at: www.ericjguignard.com or at his blog: www.ericjguignard.blogspot.com.
February 5, 2014
The Sub-Genres of HORROR – PART V
This is part V in the categorical explanation for THE SUB-GENRES OF HORROR.
For an introduction, and PART I of this series, please begin here: The Sub-Genres of Horror - Part-I
PART II is here: The Sub-Genres of Horror - Part-II
PART III is here: The Sub-Genres of Horror - Part-III
PART IV is here: The Sub-Genres of Horror - Part-IV
Part V is below!
*****
Psychic Abilities
The use of Psychic Abilities (also known as extrasensory perception or sixth sense) are familiar storylines in horror fiction. Such abilities include: Telepathy (mind reading), Precognition or Postcognition (seeing events in the future or the past), Mind Control (forcing someone to act against their will), Telekinesis (ability to move objects by willpower), or any other power credited to the brain which is generally not considered possible in humans. Elements of witchery or paranormal may also share in this category.
These powers are not always portrayed with the intent to cause fright, but frequently are used by the protagonist to overcome a seemingly undefeatable opponent. Naturally the element of “evil” in psychic abilities is also abundant, and often multiple characters may have powers which they use to battle each other. Often, children are seen as the wielders of strange faculties. Psychic abilities may be explained by genetics, learned behavior, sorcery, or technological/medical experimentation (including comic-favorite ‘side-effects of radiation’).
Book Examples:
Firestarter by Stephen King
False Memory by Dean Koontz
Darkest Powers (series of books) by Kelley Armstrong
Psychological Horror
Psychological Horror is best characterized by the fears that come from within our psyche, rather than from external sources such as monsters or serial killers. It’s a form of narrative that builds tension through the character’s perception of events, causing them (and the reader) terror or mental/ emotional instability. Often this subgenre is considered successful by what isn’t revealed rather than by what is told, and is generally considered to be more complex than those forms of horror which rely on violence or gore. Affects of the human psyche include such undesirable elements as: mental conflict, doubt, guilt, phobia, insanity, suspicion, distrust, etc.
Book Examples:
American Psycho by Bret Easton Ellis
Rebecca by Daphne Du Maurier
The Unloved by John Saul
Religious Horror (including: Demons and Possession)
One of the oldest themes of horror draws upon the fears, consequences, and manifestations of evil found in religion. Although organized religion may be a focal point in the story, any belief system can be utilized such as Catholicism, Protestantism, Buddhism, Tribal Worship, or rites, mythology, or doctrine of any of the other countless world denominations. Most commonly, these tales will portray a variation of Satan as the ultimate evil/ villainous antagonist which corrupts or outright attacks an unsuspecting innocent. Other unsettling considerations include demon possession and exorcism, spirit worship, witchcraft, or any communion with evil spirits, including agreements, willing habitation, or general relationship. Even stories revolving around fictional religion (i.e. invented strictly for purposes of the plot) may also fall into this category. The worship of H.P. Lovecraft’s Cthulhu mythos is an example of this.
Book Examples:
The Exorcist by William Peter Blatty
Rosemary's Baby by Ira Levin
The Omen by David Seltzer
Revenge
Some of the most compelling stories are those dealing with well-deserved retribution. The vengeance may be as righteous as bloodletting of a supernatural deity (demons, monsters, aliens) or as mundane as rallying against a corrupt financial institution. Revenge can haunt some people and it can heal others, but either way it is cause for vigorous emotion. After all, ‘Getting even’ is one of man’s most basic desires. Most people do not regularly act on it, especially in grand scale, but the satisfaction of relating to someone who does is often a thrilling, if not guilty, pleasure. Whether blood-spattered torture, psychological trauma, financial ruin, or simple dismissal, tales of revenge is a notion that every reader can empathize with in some form.
Book Examples:
Carrie by Stephen King
Red by Jack Ketchum
Death Wish by Brian Garfield
*****
MORE TO COME IN MY NEXT BLOG POST! Stay tuned soon for The Sub-Genres of HORROR – PART VI
Part I Describes: Apocalyptic/Post-Apocalyptic Horror, Bizarro Fiction, Body Horror (Biological Horror)
Part II describes: Dark Fantasy (AKA:Fantasy Horror), Environmental Horror, Erotic Horror, Fairy Tales and Dark Fables
Part III describes: Gothic Horror, Historical Horror, Humor (AKA: Horror Comedy), and Killer Animals
Part IV describes: Lovecraftian Horror (Cthulhu Mythos), Media Tie-In, Monster Horror, and Paranormal
Part V describes: Psychic Abilities, Psychological Horror, Religious Horror(including: Demons and Possession), and Revenge
*****
Thanks to notes on this topic accumulated from the following websites:
http://www.cuebon.com/ewriters/Hsubgenres.html
http://www.goldenagestories.com/news/2013/01/04/the-dark-the-dark-the-history-of-horror-fiction/2602
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Horror_fiction
http://www.wisegeek.com/what-are-the-different-horror-genres.htm
*****
Midnight cheers,
Eric J. Guignard
BIO:
Eric J. Guignardwrites dark and speculative fiction from the outskirts of Los Angeles. His stories and articles may be found in magazines, journals, anthologies, and any other media that will print him. He’s a member of the Horror Writer’s Association and the International Thriller Writers. Recent magazine publications include Buzzy Magazine, Beware the Dark, and Stupefying Stories TM. He’s also an anthology editor, including: Dark Tales of Lost Civilizations (2012, Dark Moon Books), which was nominated for a Bram Stoker Award®, and last year’s critically acclaimed release, After Death… (2013, Dark Moon Books). Read his novella, Baggage of Eternal Night (2013, JournalStone Publishing), and watch for many more forthcoming books, including Chestnut ’Bo (TBP 2015). Visit Eric at: www.ericjguignard.comor at his blog: www.ericjguignard.blogspot.com.
For an introduction, and PART I of this series, please begin here: The Sub-Genres of Horror - Part-I
PART II is here: The Sub-Genres of Horror - Part-II
PART III is here: The Sub-Genres of Horror - Part-III
PART IV is here: The Sub-Genres of Horror - Part-IV
Part V is below!
*****
Psychic Abilities
The use of Psychic Abilities (also known as extrasensory perception or sixth sense) are familiar storylines in horror fiction. Such abilities include: Telepathy (mind reading), Precognition or Postcognition (seeing events in the future or the past), Mind Control (forcing someone to act against their will), Telekinesis (ability to move objects by willpower), or any other power credited to the brain which is generally not considered possible in humans. Elements of witchery or paranormal may also share in this category.
These powers are not always portrayed with the intent to cause fright, but frequently are used by the protagonist to overcome a seemingly undefeatable opponent. Naturally the element of “evil” in psychic abilities is also abundant, and often multiple characters may have powers which they use to battle each other. Often, children are seen as the wielders of strange faculties. Psychic abilities may be explained by genetics, learned behavior, sorcery, or technological/medical experimentation (including comic-favorite ‘side-effects of radiation’).
Book Examples:
Firestarter by Stephen King
False Memory by Dean Koontz
Darkest Powers (series of books) by Kelley Armstrong
Psychological Horror
Psychological Horror is best characterized by the fears that come from within our psyche, rather than from external sources such as monsters or serial killers. It’s a form of narrative that builds tension through the character’s perception of events, causing them (and the reader) terror or mental/ emotional instability. Often this subgenre is considered successful by what isn’t revealed rather than by what is told, and is generally considered to be more complex than those forms of horror which rely on violence or gore. Affects of the human psyche include such undesirable elements as: mental conflict, doubt, guilt, phobia, insanity, suspicion, distrust, etc.
Book Examples:
American Psycho by Bret Easton Ellis
Rebecca by Daphne Du Maurier
The Unloved by John Saul
Religious Horror (including: Demons and Possession)
One of the oldest themes of horror draws upon the fears, consequences, and manifestations of evil found in religion. Although organized religion may be a focal point in the story, any belief system can be utilized such as Catholicism, Protestantism, Buddhism, Tribal Worship, or rites, mythology, or doctrine of any of the other countless world denominations. Most commonly, these tales will portray a variation of Satan as the ultimate evil/ villainous antagonist which corrupts or outright attacks an unsuspecting innocent. Other unsettling considerations include demon possession and exorcism, spirit worship, witchcraft, or any communion with evil spirits, including agreements, willing habitation, or general relationship. Even stories revolving around fictional religion (i.e. invented strictly for purposes of the plot) may also fall into this category. The worship of H.P. Lovecraft’s Cthulhu mythos is an example of this.
Book Examples:
The Exorcist by William Peter Blatty
Rosemary's Baby by Ira Levin
The Omen by David Seltzer
Revenge
Some of the most compelling stories are those dealing with well-deserved retribution. The vengeance may be as righteous as bloodletting of a supernatural deity (demons, monsters, aliens) or as mundane as rallying against a corrupt financial institution. Revenge can haunt some people and it can heal others, but either way it is cause for vigorous emotion. After all, ‘Getting even’ is one of man’s most basic desires. Most people do not regularly act on it, especially in grand scale, but the satisfaction of relating to someone who does is often a thrilling, if not guilty, pleasure. Whether blood-spattered torture, psychological trauma, financial ruin, or simple dismissal, tales of revenge is a notion that every reader can empathize with in some form.
Book Examples:
Carrie by Stephen King
Red by Jack Ketchum
Death Wish by Brian Garfield
*****
MORE TO COME IN MY NEXT BLOG POST! Stay tuned soon for The Sub-Genres of HORROR – PART VI
Part I Describes: Apocalyptic/Post-Apocalyptic Horror, Bizarro Fiction, Body Horror (Biological Horror)
Part II describes: Dark Fantasy (AKA:Fantasy Horror), Environmental Horror, Erotic Horror, Fairy Tales and Dark Fables
Part III describes: Gothic Horror, Historical Horror, Humor (AKA: Horror Comedy), and Killer Animals
Part IV describes: Lovecraftian Horror (Cthulhu Mythos), Media Tie-In, Monster Horror, and Paranormal
Part V describes: Psychic Abilities, Psychological Horror, Religious Horror(including: Demons and Possession), and Revenge
*****
Thanks to notes on this topic accumulated from the following websites:
http://www.cuebon.com/ewriters/Hsubgenres.html
http://www.goldenagestories.com/news/2013/01/04/the-dark-the-dark-the-history-of-horror-fiction/2602
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Horror_fiction
http://www.wisegeek.com/what-are-the-different-horror-genres.htm
*****
Midnight cheers,
Eric J. Guignard
BIO:
Eric J. Guignardwrites dark and speculative fiction from the outskirts of Los Angeles. His stories and articles may be found in magazines, journals, anthologies, and any other media that will print him. He’s a member of the Horror Writer’s Association and the International Thriller Writers. Recent magazine publications include Buzzy Magazine, Beware the Dark, and Stupefying Stories TM. He’s also an anthology editor, including: Dark Tales of Lost Civilizations (2012, Dark Moon Books), which was nominated for a Bram Stoker Award®, and last year’s critically acclaimed release, After Death… (2013, Dark Moon Books). Read his novella, Baggage of Eternal Night (2013, JournalStone Publishing), and watch for many more forthcoming books, including Chestnut ’Bo (TBP 2015). Visit Eric at: www.ericjguignard.comor at his blog: www.ericjguignard.blogspot.com.
January 22, 2014
Book Reviews (January, 2014)
Book Reviews! Each of the following books may be purchased through any large book store or online through www.amazon.com.
***
REVIEWED: Deadfall HotelWRITTEN BY: Steve Rasnic Tem
PUBLISHED: April, 2012
Deadfall Hotel is a rather sweet, at times sad, at times scary, novel which is more fantasy than horror. It includes the familiar monster tropes, but they are all fused with human pains, made believable in whatever condition ails the character, sending them to convalesce and, most likely, eventually perish in the namesake hotel. I wouldn’t call this book a “page-turner” as it is slow and sentimental, but that is what I enjoy about this author; he captures the subtleties of emotion – fear, sadness, hope – as masterfully as any “literary” writer, while at the same time building a compelling supernatural environment. A few of the sections seemed to go on for too long, such as the King of the Cats, while other sections, I wanted to learn more of, such as the actual history of the house, the pool that only occasionally appears, and the several of the other background “inhabitants” that make brief cameo appearances, but never again materialize. Deadfall Hotel is best read in a leisurely pace, ideally in a windowed nook with gloomy rain falling outside, and a nice mug of chamomile tea.
Four and a quarter out of Five stars
***
REVIEWED: Deadman’s RoadWRITTEN BY: Joe R. Lansdale
PUBLISHED: October, 2010
I really enjoyed this collection of short stories. Each self-contained tale revolves around the exploits of a central character, the gun slinging Reverend Jebidiah Mercer. There’s not a lot of literary depth to this book, but the stories are all fast-paced, action-filled, and pulp-esque fun. Rev. Mercer is quested to roam the old west, destroying evil in the name of God, whom he mostly despises, as penance for his sins. Each story pits him against a new enemy, mortal and supernatural alike. Mercer, cursing the whole way, does battle with whomever he is set against, including zombies, werewolves, ghosts, and kobolds. Joe R. Lansdale is really a master at creating excitement in his writing as well as crafting funny, meaningful dialogue. Know what you’re getting into before starting this: Deadman’s Road is violent and crass, but perfect when you need a pick-me-up after power-reading Camus or Dostoyevsky.
Five out of Five stars
***
REVIEWED: Village of the MermaidsWRITTEN BY: Carlton Mellick III
PUBLISHED: April, 2013
Village of the Mermaids is about an Island town surrounded by carnivorous mermaids, which the local citizens are not allowed to kill, under threat of execution, per the Endangered Species Act.
Biting government satire, survivalist thrills, mystery, and horrible, horrible man-eating mermaids, this novel is not for the weak-of-heart, but IS for those who appreciate reading something strange and beautiful that they would not find anywhere else.
It’s a funny, fast-paced story. Like all of Mellick’s work, I enjoyed this, though I wouldn’t consider it one of his best novels. That being said, it’s quite fine on any level. The talent of Carlton is that he can take the most ridiculous-sounding premises and, in a unique and smart maneuvering, craft very entertaining tales that are both outlandish and highly literary.
As an aside, the opening prologue is a chapter which was removed from the book as it didn’t “fit,” but is the strongest element of the book overall, emotionally tragic. Reading it in advance gave me character insight into the doctor's character.
Four out of Five stars
***
Midnight cheers,
Eric J. Guignard
November 7, 2013
The Sub-Genres of HORROR – PART IV
This is part IV in the categorical explanation for THE SUB GENRES OF HORROR.
For an introduction, and PART I of this series, please begin here: The Sub-Genres of Horror - Part-I
PART II is here: The Sub-Genres of Horror - Part-II
PART III is here: The Sub-Genres of Horror - Part-III
Part IV is below!
*****
Lovecraftian Horror (Cthulhu Mythos)
Named after its progenitor, author H. P. Lovecraft, Lovecraftian Horror deals with “cosmic horror of the unknown.” This theme is guided by the belief that human minds cannot possibly comprehend the perilous mysteries of the universe which are, at its core, alien and malevolent. Common elements include protagonists who use science and logic to attempt to unravel these mysteries, but then, most often, lose their sanity, as the mysteries of the cosmos are too much for the human mind to comprehend. Also categorized under “Weird Fiction,” Lovecraftian Horror is generally pessimistic, dependent on atmosphere, and typically abstains from gore (choosing to emphasize psychological fear, being the absence of normality).
Book Examples:
The Call of Cthulhu (or Tales of the Cthulhu Mythos) by H. P. Lovecraft
The Burrowers Beneath (Book 1 of the Cthulhu Cycle Deities) by Brian Lumley
New Cthulhu: The Recent Weird (an anthology) edited by Paula Guran
Media Tie-In
A book based on a movie, game, television show, etc., authorized by the production company to be written as part of cross promotional efforts. Generally, this type of book will expand the storyline of the original work, using its existing characters, concepts, and settings. The important distinction here is that the story itself will be unique from the movie (or other media vehicle), whereas a novelization is the simply the written form of the original story, i.e. a written format of what occurs in the movie.
Book Examples:
30 Days of Night: Light of Day by Jeff Mariotte
The Willow Files, Vol. 1 (Buffy The Vampire Slayer) by Yvonne Navarro
Dreams of the Dark (Dark Shadows) by Stephen M. Rainey, Elizabeth Massie, and Lara Parker
Monster Horror (AKA: Supernatural Horror; AKA: Monster Literature)
The very word itself, “Monster,” suggests something that is evil or hideous, and monsters in horror is perhaps the most familiar theme when one thinks of the genre. This may include any fictional or supernatural creature such as zombies, werewolves, mummies, vampires, etc. Typically the Monster (also generally the antagonist) is defined as something that is abhorrent to society and that it also incites fear and is threatening.
Book Examples:
I Am Legend by Richard Matheson
Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hydeby Robert Louis Stevenson
It by Stephen King
Paranormal
Paranormal Horror may be closely categorized to monster horror, but that these monsters are generally intangible, or if they are more like traditional “monsters” they are at least capable of intelligent thought, and not rambling killing-machines. Paranormal primarily includes ghosts, unidentified presences, demons, perhaps aliens, or simply anything that is contrary to the realm of current scientific explanation. Even the authenticity of séances or Ouija boards, faith healing, telepathy, or any psychic phenomena may be considered paranormal, as their results can’t be scientifically proven. A psychological movement, “Parapsychology” is the scientific study of the Paranormal, to push those boundaries of what may be “possible.” Another popular subgenre which is often categorized similarly is Paranormal Romance, recognized as a romance story in which one or more of the protagonists possesses some paranormal ability.
Book Examples (Paranormal Horror):
The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde
The Shining by Stephen King
Rosemary’s Baby by Ira Levin
Book Examples (Paranormal Romance):
Twilight by Stephenie Meyer
Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse #1)by Charlaine Harris
Fantasy Lover (Dark-Hunter companion novel) by Sherrilyn Kenyon
*****
MORE TO COME IN MY NEXT BLOG POST! Stay tuned soon for The Sub-Genres of HORROR – PART V
Part I Describes: Apocalyptic/Post-Apocalyptic Horror, Bizarro Fiction, Body Horror (Biological Horror)
Part II describes: Dark Fantasy (AKA:Fantasy Horror), Environmental Horror, Erotic Horror, Fairy Tales and Dark Fables
Part III describes: Gothic Horror, Historical Horror, Humor (AKA: Horror Comedy), and Killer Animals
Part IV describes: Lovecraftian Horror (Cthulhu Mythos), Lovecraftian Horror(Cthulhu Mythos), Monster Horror, and Paranormal
*****
Thanks to notes on this topic accumulated from the following websites:
http://www.cuebon.com/ewriters/Hsubgenres.html
http://www.goldenagestories.com/news/2013/01/04/the-dark-the-dark-the-history-of-horror-fiction/2602
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Horror_fiction
http://www.wisegeek.com/what-are-the-different-horror-genres.htm
*****
Midnight cheers,
Eric J. Guignard
BIO:
Eric J. Guignard writes dark and speculative fiction from his office in Los Angeles. His stories and articles may be found in magazines, journals, anthologies, and any other media that will print him. He’s a member of the Horror Writer’s Association, the International Thriller Writers, and is also the Horror Genre Correspondent for Men’s Confidence Magazine. In addition, he’s an anthology editor, including: Dark Tales of Lost Civilizations (2012, Dark Moon Books), which was nominated for a Bram Stoker Award®, and this year’s critically acclaimed release, After Death… (2013, Dark Moon Books). Read his novella, Baggage of Eternal Night (2013, JournalStone Publishing), and watch for many more forthcoming books. Visit Eric at: www.ericjguignard.com or at his blog: www.ericjguignard.blogspot.com.
For an introduction, and PART I of this series, please begin here: The Sub-Genres of Horror - Part-I
PART II is here: The Sub-Genres of Horror - Part-II
PART III is here: The Sub-Genres of Horror - Part-III
Part IV is below!
*****
Lovecraftian Horror (Cthulhu Mythos)
Named after its progenitor, author H. P. Lovecraft, Lovecraftian Horror deals with “cosmic horror of the unknown.” This theme is guided by the belief that human minds cannot possibly comprehend the perilous mysteries of the universe which are, at its core, alien and malevolent. Common elements include protagonists who use science and logic to attempt to unravel these mysteries, but then, most often, lose their sanity, as the mysteries of the cosmos are too much for the human mind to comprehend. Also categorized under “Weird Fiction,” Lovecraftian Horror is generally pessimistic, dependent on atmosphere, and typically abstains from gore (choosing to emphasize psychological fear, being the absence of normality).
Book Examples:
The Call of Cthulhu (or Tales of the Cthulhu Mythos) by H. P. Lovecraft
The Burrowers Beneath (Book 1 of the Cthulhu Cycle Deities) by Brian Lumley
New Cthulhu: The Recent Weird (an anthology) edited by Paula Guran
Media Tie-In
A book based on a movie, game, television show, etc., authorized by the production company to be written as part of cross promotional efforts. Generally, this type of book will expand the storyline of the original work, using its existing characters, concepts, and settings. The important distinction here is that the story itself will be unique from the movie (or other media vehicle), whereas a novelization is the simply the written form of the original story, i.e. a written format of what occurs in the movie.
Book Examples:
30 Days of Night: Light of Day by Jeff Mariotte
The Willow Files, Vol. 1 (Buffy The Vampire Slayer) by Yvonne Navarro
Dreams of the Dark (Dark Shadows) by Stephen M. Rainey, Elizabeth Massie, and Lara Parker
Monster Horror (AKA: Supernatural Horror; AKA: Monster Literature)
The very word itself, “Monster,” suggests something that is evil or hideous, and monsters in horror is perhaps the most familiar theme when one thinks of the genre. This may include any fictional or supernatural creature such as zombies, werewolves, mummies, vampires, etc. Typically the Monster (also generally the antagonist) is defined as something that is abhorrent to society and that it also incites fear and is threatening.
Book Examples:
I Am Legend by Richard Matheson
Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hydeby Robert Louis Stevenson
It by Stephen King
Paranormal
Paranormal Horror may be closely categorized to monster horror, but that these monsters are generally intangible, or if they are more like traditional “monsters” they are at least capable of intelligent thought, and not rambling killing-machines. Paranormal primarily includes ghosts, unidentified presences, demons, perhaps aliens, or simply anything that is contrary to the realm of current scientific explanation. Even the authenticity of séances or Ouija boards, faith healing, telepathy, or any psychic phenomena may be considered paranormal, as their results can’t be scientifically proven. A psychological movement, “Parapsychology” is the scientific study of the Paranormal, to push those boundaries of what may be “possible.” Another popular subgenre which is often categorized similarly is Paranormal Romance, recognized as a romance story in which one or more of the protagonists possesses some paranormal ability.
Book Examples (Paranormal Horror):
The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde
The Shining by Stephen King
Rosemary’s Baby by Ira Levin
Book Examples (Paranormal Romance):
Twilight by Stephenie Meyer
Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse #1)by Charlaine Harris
Fantasy Lover (Dark-Hunter companion novel) by Sherrilyn Kenyon
*****
MORE TO COME IN MY NEXT BLOG POST! Stay tuned soon for The Sub-Genres of HORROR – PART V
Part I Describes: Apocalyptic/Post-Apocalyptic Horror, Bizarro Fiction, Body Horror (Biological Horror)
Part II describes: Dark Fantasy (AKA:Fantasy Horror), Environmental Horror, Erotic Horror, Fairy Tales and Dark Fables
Part III describes: Gothic Horror, Historical Horror, Humor (AKA: Horror Comedy), and Killer Animals
Part IV describes: Lovecraftian Horror (Cthulhu Mythos), Lovecraftian Horror(Cthulhu Mythos), Monster Horror, and Paranormal
*****
Thanks to notes on this topic accumulated from the following websites:
http://www.cuebon.com/ewriters/Hsubgenres.html
http://www.goldenagestories.com/news/2013/01/04/the-dark-the-dark-the-history-of-horror-fiction/2602
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Horror_fiction
http://www.wisegeek.com/what-are-the-different-horror-genres.htm
*****
Midnight cheers,
Eric J. Guignard
BIO:
Eric J. Guignard writes dark and speculative fiction from his office in Los Angeles. His stories and articles may be found in magazines, journals, anthologies, and any other media that will print him. He’s a member of the Horror Writer’s Association, the International Thriller Writers, and is also the Horror Genre Correspondent for Men’s Confidence Magazine. In addition, he’s an anthology editor, including: Dark Tales of Lost Civilizations (2012, Dark Moon Books), which was nominated for a Bram Stoker Award®, and this year’s critically acclaimed release, After Death… (2013, Dark Moon Books). Read his novella, Baggage of Eternal Night (2013, JournalStone Publishing), and watch for many more forthcoming books. Visit Eric at: www.ericjguignard.com or at his blog: www.ericjguignard.blogspot.com.
October 16, 2013
Interview With An Author (ME!) by Adventures With Ravina (PART 3 of 3)
This is Part 3 (of 3) of the of the interview done with me by the bloggers at ADVENTURES WITH RAVINA.
Part I of the interview is here: http://ericjguignard.blogspot.com/2013/10/interview-with-author-me-by-adventures.html
Part II of the interview is here: http://ericjguignard.blogspot.com/2013/10/interview-with-author-me-by-adventures_7.html
Part III of the full length of interview questions is below!
*****
Last books you purchased? Tell us about it.
= “EDGE OF DARK WATER” by Joe R. Lansdale. “THE TERROR” by Dan Simmons. NEVERWHERE” by Neil Gaimon. “DEADFALL HOTEL” by Steve Rasnic Tem. “REDSHIRTS” by John Scalzi. “THE CORN MAIDEN AND OTHER NIGHTMARES” by Joyce Carol Oates. All six of these books are recent purchases and highly recommended. With the exception of “REDSHIRTS” (which is science fiction) these are all horror and dark fiction works; all are by amazing authors who have built a career on bestselling works that are applauded within the literary community.
Do you find the time to read?
= Every day; I try to read at least 30 minutes.
When and why did you begin writing?
= I’ve been writing and drawing stories ever since I was a child. However I stopped in college, in order to pursue business and serious-minded life necessities... which, of course, I now regret. I don’t regret the pursuit of those things, but having given up writing for so many years. I only jumped into as a potential career two-and-a-half years ago after the realization struck me that I was missing out on something I was passionate about.
How long have you been writing?
= I’ve been writing fiction with the goal of publication since February, 2011.
What genre are you most comfortable writing?
= Dark fiction, speculative fiction, horror, humor, and children’s stories
Who designed the cover?
= I designed the cover myself, although the artwork was created by Kevin Scott Sutay. Kevin is a United States veteran who is currently and illegally held by Columbian rebels as a prisoner on false charges of espionage. Hopefully by the time this interview sees print, the US government will have negotiated his release.
Who is your publisher?
= Dark Moon Books, an imprint of Stony Meadow Publishing, which is a wonderful indie publisher in Florida of quality fiction (mostly horror) and non-fiction. www.darkmoonbooks.com
How much of the book is realistic?
None of it is particularly realistic. “AFTER DEATH...” is anthology of all stories which are pure speculation on the part of the authors. Everyone’s opinion of what may happen after we die is different, and these stories explore a myriad of possibilities.
Have you ever considered anyone as a mentor?
= Weston Ochse @ http://weston-ochse.blogspot.com/
and Lisa Morton @ http://cinriter.livejournal.com/
What are your current writing projects now?
= I’m beginning a dark fantasy novel set in the hobo camps of the 1930s depression. Also, as a short story writer, I’m constantly working on smaller projects, both in the creation of stories, but also in the promotion of presses I work with.
Are there any new authors that have sparked your interest and why?
= Edward M Erdelac; I appreciate his crisp technical skills and love of mixing genres, primarily history and horror into compelling reading. http://emerdelac.wordpress.com/
Peter Giglio; As a writer, editor, and publisher, Pete creates and promotes some of the best horror and dark fiction in the indie presses. http://www.petergiglio.com
Jamie Lackey; Primarily an author of short stories, Jamie is exceptionally prolific with her work which spans fantasy, science fiction, and horror. She’s able to meld very emotionally-resonant characters into powerful storylines. http://www.jamielackey.com
Do you have any advice for writers?
= Keep writing, and remember that every rejection is an opportunity for improvement.
*****
All for now! Be sure to follow this Blog and connect with me via Twitter and other fine social media sites.
Go Back to: Author Interview with Me Part 1
Go Back to: Author Interview with Me Part 2
Part I of the interview is here: http://ericjguignard.blogspot.com/2013/10/interview-with-author-me-by-adventures.html
Part II of the interview is here: http://ericjguignard.blogspot.com/2013/10/interview-with-author-me-by-adventures_7.html
Part III of the full length of interview questions is below!
*****
Last books you purchased? Tell us about it.
= “EDGE OF DARK WATER” by Joe R. Lansdale. “THE TERROR” by Dan Simmons. NEVERWHERE” by Neil Gaimon. “DEADFALL HOTEL” by Steve Rasnic Tem. “REDSHIRTS” by John Scalzi. “THE CORN MAIDEN AND OTHER NIGHTMARES” by Joyce Carol Oates. All six of these books are recent purchases and highly recommended. With the exception of “REDSHIRTS” (which is science fiction) these are all horror and dark fiction works; all are by amazing authors who have built a career on bestselling works that are applauded within the literary community.
Do you find the time to read?
= Every day; I try to read at least 30 minutes.
When and why did you begin writing?
= I’ve been writing and drawing stories ever since I was a child. However I stopped in college, in order to pursue business and serious-minded life necessities... which, of course, I now regret. I don’t regret the pursuit of those things, but having given up writing for so many years. I only jumped into as a potential career two-and-a-half years ago after the realization struck me that I was missing out on something I was passionate about.
How long have you been writing?
= I’ve been writing fiction with the goal of publication since February, 2011.
What genre are you most comfortable writing?
= Dark fiction, speculative fiction, horror, humor, and children’s stories
Who designed the cover?
= I designed the cover myself, although the artwork was created by Kevin Scott Sutay. Kevin is a United States veteran who is currently and illegally held by Columbian rebels as a prisoner on false charges of espionage. Hopefully by the time this interview sees print, the US government will have negotiated his release.
Who is your publisher?
= Dark Moon Books, an imprint of Stony Meadow Publishing, which is a wonderful indie publisher in Florida of quality fiction (mostly horror) and non-fiction. www.darkmoonbooks.com
How much of the book is realistic?
None of it is particularly realistic. “AFTER DEATH...” is anthology of all stories which are pure speculation on the part of the authors. Everyone’s opinion of what may happen after we die is different, and these stories explore a myriad of possibilities.
Have you ever considered anyone as a mentor?
= Weston Ochse @ http://weston-ochse.blogspot.com/
and Lisa Morton @ http://cinriter.livejournal.com/
What are your current writing projects now?
= I’m beginning a dark fantasy novel set in the hobo camps of the 1930s depression. Also, as a short story writer, I’m constantly working on smaller projects, both in the creation of stories, but also in the promotion of presses I work with.
Are there any new authors that have sparked your interest and why?
= Edward M Erdelac; I appreciate his crisp technical skills and love of mixing genres, primarily history and horror into compelling reading. http://emerdelac.wordpress.com/
Peter Giglio; As a writer, editor, and publisher, Pete creates and promotes some of the best horror and dark fiction in the indie presses. http://www.petergiglio.com
Jamie Lackey; Primarily an author of short stories, Jamie is exceptionally prolific with her work which spans fantasy, science fiction, and horror. She’s able to meld very emotionally-resonant characters into powerful storylines. http://www.jamielackey.com
Do you have any advice for writers?
= Keep writing, and remember that every rejection is an opportunity for improvement.
*****
All for now! Be sure to follow this Blog and connect with me via Twitter and other fine social media sites.
Go Back to: Author Interview with Me Part 1
Go Back to: Author Interview with Me Part 2
October 7, 2013
Interview With An Author (ME!) by Adventures With Ravina (PART 2 of 3)
This is Part II of the of the interview done with me by the bloggers at ADVENTURES WITH RAVINA.
Part I of the interview is here: http://ericjguignard.blogspot.com/2013/10/interview-with-author-me-by-adventures.html
Part II of the full length of interview questions is below!
*****
Tell us a bit about your family.
= I’m married to my beautiful childhood sweetheart. We have a five year old son, and my wife is pregnant with our second (a girl) due March, 2014.
What makes you happiest?
= Writing the words, “The End”
What books did you love growing up?
= Horror (Stephen King, Dean Koontz), Boys Adventure (Jack London, Hardy Boys), Literary Classics (Mark Twain, John Steinbeck), anthologies or collections of short stories (Thomas Monteleone, Stephen King ((again)), O. Henry), and lots and lots of comics (Marvel, D.C., and Dark Horse universes)
Who are your favorite authors?
= Cormac McCarthy, George Orwell, Stephen King, John Steinbeck, Joe R. Lansdale, Clive Barker, Hunter S. Thompson, Jack Kerouac, Ernest Hemmingway, Robert McCammon, Mark Bowden, O. Henry, James Ellroy, and many others.
What book should everybody read at least once?
= “Boys Life” by Robert McCammon, “Big Fish” by Daniel Wallace, “The Divine Comedy” by Dante, “Burmese Days” by James Orwell, or any volume of “The Year’s Best Dark Fantasy & Horror.”
Location and life experiences can really influence writing, tell us where you grew up and where you now live?
= I was born and raised in the suburbs of Los Angeles. I’ve travelled extensively through the United States and the world, but southern California has always been home.
Where do you get your inspiration from?
= Dreams (both night and day), news, conversations with people, personal observations of the world, and playing the “What If?” game.
Do you plan to publish more books?
= Absolutely. I have a stack ideas I want to put to paper.
What else do you do to make money, other than write? It is rare today for writers to be full time…
= I used to work in business and outside sales. I then tried to start my own custom furniture design and manufacturing business which flopped. Now I contract write and edit, including working in the financial industry as a technical writer.
What other jobs have you had in your life?
= Geez, just about everything! Retail, Waiter, Security, Roofing, Manufacturing, Professional Sales (Inside and Outside), Loan Officer, Graphic Designer, Freight Loader at U.P.S., Furniture Designer, Project Manager, and more. I’ve kept a running log of dates for every single job I’ve ever worked. I’ve been employed for 19 years (since 1994) and have worked 28 jobs. Many of those overlapped, including part-time, weekend, or temporary work. The expression, “Jack of all trades, master of none,” definitely comes to mind; I’ve jumped around a lot.
How do you write – lap top, pen, paper, in bed, at a desk?
= I used to write with pen in spiral notebooks and then type it up later on a word processor. Now, I write exclusively on my desktop computer. Actually, to be honest, I write in my head first, word by word, then run to my computer and try to type it all out as I imagined it.
Where do you get support from? Do you have friends in the industry?
= I’ve made friends in the industry recently, but starting out (only two and a half years ago), I knew nobody or nothing about the world of publishing fiction. But I threw myself into it, studied the craft, networked, and learned through experiences. Of course, still being a “newbie,” I realize I have a great deal more to learn.
*****
Stay tuned for Author Interview with Me, Part 3, to be posted soon!
October 2, 2013
Interview With An Author (ME!) by Adventures With Ravina (PART 1 of 3)
As part of a Book Promotions Tour, I was recently interviewed by a Blogger at ADVENTURES WITH RAVINA. I was asked a series of questions, though only a partial selection of those were ultimately posted.
I thought it would be fun to post the entire interview, though due to its length, I’ll break it up into three parts.
The final posted Interview is here: http://www.ravinaandreakurian.com/2013/10/author-interview-eric-j-guignard.html
The full length of interview questions is below!
*****
Tell us a bit about your family.
= I’m married to my beautiful childhood sweetheart. We have a five year old son, and my wife is pregnant with our second (a girl) due March, 2014.
What makes you happiest?
= Writing the words, “The End”
What books did you love growing up?
= Horror (Stephen King, Dean Koontz), Boys Adventure (Jack London, Hardy Boys), Literary Classics (Mark Twain, John Steinbeck), anthologies or collections of short stories (Thomas Monteleone, Stephen King ((again)), O. Henry), and lots and lots of comics (Marvel, D.C., and Dark Horse universes)
Who are your favorite authors?
= Cormac McCarthy, George Orwell, Stephen King, John Steinbeck, Joe R. Lansdale, Clive Barker, Hunter S. Thompson, Jack Kerouac, Ernest Hemmingway, Robert McCammon, Mark Bowden, O. Henry, James Ellroy, and many others.
What book should everybody read at least once?
= “Boys Life” by Robert McCammon, “Big Fish” by Daniel Wallace, “The Divine Comedy” by Dante, “Burmese Days” by James Orwell, or any volume of “The Year’s Best Dark Fantasy & Horror.”
Location and life experiences can really influence writing, tell us where you grew up and where you now live?
= I was born and raised in the suburbs of Los Angeles. I’ve travelled extensively through the United States and the world, but southern California has always been home.
Where do you get your inspiration from?
= Dreams (both night and day), news, conversations with people, personal observations of the world, and playing the “What If?” game.
Have you ever considered anyone as a mentor?
= Weston Ochse @ http://weston-ochse.blogspot.com/and Lisa Morton @ http://cinriter.livejournal.com/
Do you plan to publish more books?
= Absolutely. I have a stack of ideas I want to put to paper.
What else do you do to make money, other than write? It is rare today for writers to be full time…
= I used to work in business and outside sales. I then tried to start my own custom furniture design and manufacturing business which flopped. Now I contract write and edit, including working in the financial industry as a technical writer.
What other jobs have you had in your life?
= Geez, just about everything! Retail, Waiter, Security, Roofing, Manufacturing, Professional Sales (Inside and Outside), Loan Officer, Graphic Designer, Freight Loader at U.P.S., Furniture Designer, Project Manager, and more. I’ve kept a running log of dates for every single job I’ve ever worked. I’ve been employed for 19 years (since 1994) and have worked 28 jobs. Many of those overlapped, including part-time, weekend, or temporary work. The expression, “Jack of all trades, master of none,” definitely comes to mind; I’ve jumped around a lot.
How do you write – lap top, pen, paper, in bed, at a desk?
= I used to write with pen in spiral notebooks and then type it up later on a word processor. Now, I write exclusively on my desktop computer. Actually, to be honest, I write in my head first, word by word, then run to my computer and try to type it all out as I imagined it.
Where do you get support from? Do you have friends in the industry?
= I’ve made friends in the industry recently, but starting out (only two and a half years ago), I knew nobody or nothing about the world of publishing fiction. But I threw myself into it, studied the craft, networked, and learned through experiences. Of course, still being a “newbie,” I realize I have a great deal more to learn.
*****
Stay tuned for Author Interview with Me, Part 2, to be posted next week!
I thought it would be fun to post the entire interview, though due to its length, I’ll break it up into three parts.
The final posted Interview is here: http://www.ravinaandreakurian.com/2013/10/author-interview-eric-j-guignard.html
The full length of interview questions is below!
*****
Tell us a bit about your family.
= I’m married to my beautiful childhood sweetheart. We have a five year old son, and my wife is pregnant with our second (a girl) due March, 2014.
What makes you happiest?
= Writing the words, “The End”
What books did you love growing up?
= Horror (Stephen King, Dean Koontz), Boys Adventure (Jack London, Hardy Boys), Literary Classics (Mark Twain, John Steinbeck), anthologies or collections of short stories (Thomas Monteleone, Stephen King ((again)), O. Henry), and lots and lots of comics (Marvel, D.C., and Dark Horse universes)
Who are your favorite authors?
= Cormac McCarthy, George Orwell, Stephen King, John Steinbeck, Joe R. Lansdale, Clive Barker, Hunter S. Thompson, Jack Kerouac, Ernest Hemmingway, Robert McCammon, Mark Bowden, O. Henry, James Ellroy, and many others.
What book should everybody read at least once?
= “Boys Life” by Robert McCammon, “Big Fish” by Daniel Wallace, “The Divine Comedy” by Dante, “Burmese Days” by James Orwell, or any volume of “The Year’s Best Dark Fantasy & Horror.”
Location and life experiences can really influence writing, tell us where you grew up and where you now live?
= I was born and raised in the suburbs of Los Angeles. I’ve travelled extensively through the United States and the world, but southern California has always been home.
Where do you get your inspiration from?
= Dreams (both night and day), news, conversations with people, personal observations of the world, and playing the “What If?” game.
Have you ever considered anyone as a mentor?
= Weston Ochse @ http://weston-ochse.blogspot.com/and Lisa Morton @ http://cinriter.livejournal.com/
Do you plan to publish more books?
= Absolutely. I have a stack of ideas I want to put to paper.
What else do you do to make money, other than write? It is rare today for writers to be full time…
= I used to work in business and outside sales. I then tried to start my own custom furniture design and manufacturing business which flopped. Now I contract write and edit, including working in the financial industry as a technical writer.
What other jobs have you had in your life?
= Geez, just about everything! Retail, Waiter, Security, Roofing, Manufacturing, Professional Sales (Inside and Outside), Loan Officer, Graphic Designer, Freight Loader at U.P.S., Furniture Designer, Project Manager, and more. I’ve kept a running log of dates for every single job I’ve ever worked. I’ve been employed for 19 years (since 1994) and have worked 28 jobs. Many of those overlapped, including part-time, weekend, or temporary work. The expression, “Jack of all trades, master of none,” definitely comes to mind; I’ve jumped around a lot.
How do you write – lap top, pen, paper, in bed, at a desk?
= I used to write with pen in spiral notebooks and then type it up later on a word processor. Now, I write exclusively on my desktop computer. Actually, to be honest, I write in my head first, word by word, then run to my computer and try to type it all out as I imagined it.
Where do you get support from? Do you have friends in the industry?
= I’ve made friends in the industry recently, but starting out (only two and a half years ago), I knew nobody or nothing about the world of publishing fiction. But I threw myself into it, studied the craft, networked, and learned through experiences. Of course, still being a “newbie,” I realize I have a great deal more to learn.
*****
Stay tuned for Author Interview with Me, Part 2, to be posted next week!
September 24, 2013
The Sub-Genres of HORROR – PART III
This is part III in the categorical explanation for THE SUB GENRES OF HORROR.
For an introduction, and PART I of this series, please begin here: The Sub-Genres of Horror - Part-I
PART II is here: The Sub-Genres of Horror - Part-II
*****
Gothic Horror (AKA: Gothic Fiction)
Gothic horror originated as a movement that combined elements of terror with romance, attributed first to English author, Horace Walpole, with his 1764 novel The Castle of Otranto (AKA: A Gothic Story). Gothic horror has since then expanded, though it still relies heavily on atmosphere and setting (such as a ruined castle, rugged mountain, or mist-shrouded cemetery) to create an overall sense of gloominess or dread. Often, the plot is melodramatic and sensational and may include a naïve heroine living by the moors of a Victorianesque society and/ or a lonely male traveler, haunted by a dark secret which is revealed at the story’s climax.
Book Examples:
Dracula by Bram Stoker
Collected Works of Edgar Allan Poe by Edgar Allan Poe
Drood by Dan Simmons
Historical Horror (including: Alternative History)
Historical Horror (and any other type of Historical Fiction) is set in the past. Though not a clearly factual account, this sub-genre relies heavily on historic facts, setting, and/ or people to provide an alternative context or hypothetical explanation to an actual event that occurred, or simply to provide the backdrop for a realistic and interesting point in time. Horror set in history has a broad range, whether including an ancillary character that happens to have existed or by completely rewriting events, such as pitting alien invaders against Confederate raiders during the Civil War. The significance in this style of writing is that particular attention is placed in the details which maintain accuracy to the time period and the appropriate mannerisms and descriptions of characters involved.
Book Examples:
The Terror by Dan Simmons
The Historian by Elizabeth Kostova
The Devils of D-Day by Graham Masterton
Humor (AKA: Horror Comedy)
Though at first consideration horror and humor may seem like diametric opposites, these two elements actually work complimentarily with each other; each shares the goal to elicit a strong reaction by mixing screaming with laughing. The act of combining humor and horror has a deep-running psychological basis as fears, or that which is not understood, is often exaggerated into parody. The short story "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow" by Washington Irving (published in 1820) is considered the first "great comedy-horror story."
Book Examples:
John Dies at the End by David Wong
The Zombie Survival Guide by Max Brooks
Fat White Vampire Blues by Andrew Fox
Killer Animals
A self-descriptive title, this category includes stories of animals engaging in murderous rampage. Whether it’s a single animal or an invasion by large group, these beasts are consumed with a voracious inclination to slaughter every human being in their path. Typically the killer animal may be classified in one of two devices: The creature is already a feared or despised species that causes revulsion in the reader even while in a tranquil state (i.e. spiders or snakes); Or the creature is one which the reader empathizes with (i.e. dog or cat), but who is turned vicious by illness, revenge, latent evil, or any other cause normally attributable to humans.
Book Examples:
The Rats by James Herbert
Jaws by Peter Benchley
Cujo by Stephen King
*****
MORE TO COME IN MY NEXT BLOG POST! Stay tuned soon for The Sub-Genres of HORROR – PART IV
Part I Describes: Apocalyptic/Post-Apocalyptic Horror, Bizarro Fiction, Body Horror (Biological Horror)
Part II describes: Dark Fantasy (AKA:Fantasy Horror), Environmental Horror, Erotic Horror, Fairy Tales and Dark Fables
Part III describes: Gothic Horror, Historical Horror, Humor (AKA: Horror Comedy), and Killer Animals
*****
Thanks to notes on this topic accumulated from the following websites:
http://www.cuebon.com/ewriters/Hsubgenres.html
http://www.goldenagestories.com/news/2013/01/04/the-dark-the-dark-the-history-of-horror-fiction/2602
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Horror_fiction
http://www.wisegeek.com/what-are-the-different-horror-genres.htm
*****
Midnight cheers,
Eric J. Guignard
September 10, 2013
The Sub-Genres of HORROR – PART II
This is part II in the categorical explanation for THE SUB GENRES OF HORROR.
For an introduction, and PART I of this series, please begin here:
The Sub-Genres of Horror - Part-I
*****
Dark Fantasy (AKA: Fantasy Horror, AKA: Gothic Fantasy)
Dark Fantasy in its broadest definition may be seen as simply another term for “supernatural horror,” being that it has a speculative element and the story is gloomy or grim in tone. However, the Dark Fantasy category is generally referenced when defining fiction in a “fantastic” context, and going beyond just the idea of one supernatural presence in order to explore a greater evil within its universe. Often, alternate and horrific worlds are developed that the characters must exist within. Other associations may involve elements of Sword & Sorcery fiction or High Fantasy fiction, written to a particulalry dark bent. Another example could be that the story is told from a mythological monster’s point of view.
Book Examples:
The Dark Tower (series of books) by Stephen King
The Saint-Germain novels by Chelsea Quinn Yarbro
Kane (stories and novels) by Karl Edward Wagner
Environmental Horror (AKA: Eco-Horror, including “Natural Disasters”)
This category applies to any story in which an element of nature takes on a speculative aspect with potentially deadly consequences to humans. Often it’s a reactionary tale in which mankind abuses the environment, and by consequence of their own actions cause the environment to exact revenge. Examples of rampant ecology include: catastrophic natural calamity (volcano, earthquake, tornado); climactic upheaval (sudden return of the ice age or cooling of Earth’s core); man-eating plants (‘nuff said); mutated animals (overt monsters such as two-headed monster shark or oversized insects OR psychological/ intellect, ala Planet of the Apes); disastrous weather (flooding, blizzards, extreme heat); atmospheric toxicity (air no longer breathable), etc. Though often ‘campy,’ these stories do promote the greater good of environmental awareness and often serve as platforms for real warnings about misusing Earth’s resources.
Book Examples:
Hothouse by Brian W. Aldiss
Garbage Man by Joseph D'Lacey
The Ruins by Scott Smith
Erotic Horror (AKA: Dark Erotica)
Erotic Horror is horror fiction which combines elements of strong sexual or sensual imagery, including (though not necessitating) intercourse. Often the erotic element goes against conventional norms, involves supernatural aspects, and may not be ‘pleasurable’ to at least one of the participants. It’s a fine line and matter of taste moving beyond a story’s traditional “romantic” element to elicit erotica and tends to be more common in the horror genre than others, simply by the graphic style of writing that the community promotes. When pushing boundaries, it’s just as easy to describe an intense act of coitus as it is a gory bloodbath; both are somewhat taboo. Much horror has subtle elements that naturally lends itself into this category. Consider Dracula’s sensual sway over female victims, or the demon Succubus that drains unsuspecting men, or even the horror movie cliché that any young couple who engage in sex will be killed the following scene. (Trivia Time: William Shakespeare called the orgasm the “little death.”)
Book Examples:
The Hellbound Heart by Clive Barker
Scared Stiff by Ramsey Campbell
Love in Vein: Twenty Original Tales of Vampiric Erotica edited by Poppy Z. Brite
Fairy Tales and Dark Fables
More often recognized in sanitized adaptations with happy endings, children are reared on legion of fairy tales. However, most of these stories were originally developed as being much darker in nature with gruesome twists and horrific endings than as known today. Rather than heroic adventures, fairy tales are parables for children meant to reinforce values and life lessons from an early age. At their heart, these stories may even be viewed as psychological tools . Child psychologist, Bruno Bettelheim, wrote the following in 1975 about this topic: “In order to master the psychological problems of growing up... a child needs to understand what is going on within his conscious self so that he can also cope with that which goes on in his unconscious.” Psycho-babble aside, old-school fairy tales are frightening things; oft-employed grim elements include supernatural monsters or witches, ghosts, deformation, severe punishment or imprisonment, and death. There continue to be new works released that incorporate elements of fairy tales, create their own tale, or promulgate the legends of fairy tales or fables, so this sub-genre by no means includes only “passed-down” stories.
Book Examples:
Grimms' Fairy Tales by Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm
Little Red Riding Hood by Charles Perrault (first published)
Once by James Herbert
*****
MORE TO COME IN MY NEXT BLOG POST! Stay tuned soon for The Sub-Genres of HORROR – PART III
Part I Describes: Apocalyptic/Post-Apocalyptic Horror, BizarroFiction, Body Horror (BiologicalHorror)
Part II describes: Dark Fantasy (AKA:Fantasy Horror), EnvironmentalHorror, Erotic Horror, Fairy Tales and Dark Fables
*****
Thanks to notes on this topic accumulated from the following websites:
http://www.cuebon.com/ewriters/Hsubgenres.html
http://www.goldenagestories.com/news/2013/01/04/the-dark-the-dark-the-history-of-horror-fiction/2602
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Horror_fiction
http://www.wisegeek.com/what-are-the-different-horror-genres.htm
*****
Midnight cheers,
Eric J. Guignard
