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Helpful Examples

Writing Cosmic Horror

By Nathaniel WhitneyPublished 12 months ago 3 min read
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Introduction:

Hello and welcome, lets set off on an expedition through the mind bending void of crafting cosmic horror tales. Prepare to delve into the abyss of the unknown, where the insignificance f humanity clashes with the incomprehensible cosmos. I will hope to provide you with clear and evocative examples to help you in the horrid art of writing cosmic horror.

Tip #1 Emphasize the Unknown and Incomprehensible

To create a gripping cosmic horror tale, immerse your readers in the unfathomable mysteries of the cosmos. Engage their imagination by weaving an intricate tapestry of the unknown and incomprehensible. Use vivid descriptions and abstract concepts too hint a forces and entities that lie beyond human understanding.

  • Example of: "How Not to Write" -

"The monster was terrifying, with enormous teeth and claws. It charged at the protagonist, who barely escaped its clutches."

This example falls short of cosmic horror's essence. It fails to capture the essence of the unknown and lacks the element of cosmic incomprehensibility.

  • Example of: "How to Write" -

"From the depths of the void emerged a creature beyond mortal perception. Its form defied earthly comprehension, shifting and undulating in eldritch rhythms. A mere glimpse of its existence shattered the protagonist's mind, as they teetered on the precipice of sanity."

Tip #2: Create a Sense of Dread and Isolation

Cosmic horror thrives on the interplay of dread and isolation. Transcend mundane fears by enveloping your readers in a pervasive sense of helplessness. Isolate your protagonist in desolate and remote settings, cut off rom the comfort and safety of civilization.

  • Example of: "How Not to Write" -

"The protagonist was surrounded by a crowd, but none of them noticed the lurking monster. They ignored the protagonist's desperate plea for help."

The example above lacks the atmospheric dread and isolation essential to cosmic horror. It fails to evoke a sense of hopelessness in the face of the unknown.

  • Example of: "How to Write" -

"In the heart of an abandoned observatory, the protagonist stood alone, their breath mingling with the frigid air. The silence was suffocating, amplifying the sound of their heartbeat. Shadows danced on the walls, concealing the presence that hungered for their soul, while the distant echo of civilization's laughter mocked their isolation."

Tip #3: Use Symbolism and Metaphor

To convey the unfathomable and evoke deeper meanings, harness the power of symbolism and metaphor. Paint a vivid canvas where tangible and intangible intertwine, hinting at the unspoken horrors lurking beneath the surface.

  • Example of: "How Not to Write" -

"The monster resembled a gigantic space-dwelling squid, with tentacles capable of crushing entire worlds."

This example fails to exploit the potential for symbolism and metaphor, reducing the cosmic horror to a literal interpretation.

  • Example of: "How to Write" -

Conclusion:

In your expedition through the terrorizing void of cosmic horror, remember to embrace the unknown, envelop your readers in dread and isolation, and employ symbolism and metaphor to evoke deeper meanings. By applying these examples and immersing your audience in rich descriptions, you will be able to craft cosmic horror tales that resonate deep within their souls, leaving them forever haunted by the unfathomable horrors that lurk beyond our understanding.

I hope these few examples were helpful, and or if not at least conveyed an interesting thought. I still feel like, that I too still have a lot to learn and experience when it comes to writing tales of horror.

On another note. I would like to thank you for making the time and giving this passage a read. I would like to write more horror tales and provide helpful tips and examples in the future.

supernaturalpsychologicalmonsterhow tofiction
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About the Creator

Nathaniel Whitney

Short stories and poems. I enjoy writing cosmic horror, though I am not limited to a single genre.

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