So there I was trying to sound like I knew what I was talking about.
Trying to convince people that horror fiction was about more than just blood and gore; that in some instances it had more to say than “don’t go down into that basement”.
Where was I? My local library had invited me to host a seminar on the horror genre as part of its Living Literature program.
The library had promoted it fairly well, arranging interviews with the local newspaper and radio station and it was a great night end. I never expected to get huge crowds, but I was very happy with the half a dozen people who showed. It made it easier to talk.
I prattled on for an hour; about how horror made the reader feel, made them think about things like faith and philosophy – as well as fear. I talked about the themes of my novella “Torment” and utlimately finished with a short reading from my upcoming novella “The Noctuary”. I also introduced the audience to the website for The Noctuary which can be found HERE
I had intended on posting a video of the reading here, but unfortunately the background noise from the air-conditioning made that impossible. Instead I’ve posted a few photos from the night.
So did I get what I wanted from doing the talk – sure. I got a chance to try and put horror fiction in a serious light and to top it all off I managed to off load half a dozen signed copies of Torment as well.
Here’s to the next talk.
Darkscrybe 
Sounds like it was fun and I'm glad it went over well.
Defending horror can be tough, even King has a hard time with that.
I think the best way to defend the horror genre is to produce good horror, because most people have reason enough to believe that horror 'does' suck.
Look at most of the recent 'horror' movies, they're all nothing but a collection of blood, gore and jump scares. No one wants to take the time to make a 'slow boil' of a movie. No one wants to build the tension, set up a decent atmosphere or create a really unique, well executed story anymore.
Looks like it's up to us.
I like less blood and gore and more tension. Good to see that you are approaching this issue as you are definitely an expert.
Thanks Sean and Michael. The Noctuary probably has more blood and gore than Torment, but it's in context. I hope you guys will give it a go
Mate – sounds like things are coming along nicely for you…except for the 'broken arm incident' – WTF!
Good to hear the library seminar went well and I'm sure 'The Noctuary' will be a massive freak-fest.
Well done!