Writers of Fear: How History and Beliefs Shape Horror Stories

Horror Stories Rooted in History and Belief

The upcoming exhibit at the American Writers Museum in Chicago, titled "American Prophets: Writers, Religion and Culture," opens on November 21. This exhibit delves into how history, belief, and culture shape the work of horror writers.

Panel Discussion at the University of Chicago Divinity School

The museum recently hosted a panel featuring three award-winning horror authors:

• Matt Ruff
• Tananarive Due
• Juan Martinez

Each author shared their unique experiences and inspirations.

Matt Ruff: "Lovecraft Country"

• Original Concept: Wrote the story as a TV series, later turned into a novel.
• Inspiration: Drew from "The X-Files," but with a twist.
• Focus: A Black family in the 1950s navigating both paranormal horror and everyday racism.
• Key Element: "The Safe Negro Travel Guide," inspired by the real "Negro Motorist Green Book."
• Challenge: TV producers initially rejected the pitch, leading Ruff to turn it into a novel.

Juan Martinez: "Extended Stay"

• Inspiration: His own life experiences as a teenager facing a serious illness.
• Comfort: Found solace in horror books during his recovery.
• Current Work: Teaching creative writing at Northwestern University and working on his second horror novel.

Tananarive Due: "The Good House"

• Inspiration: The past, particularly her family's tragic losses.
• Story: Angela's journey to understand her grandmother's "healing magic" and the traditions of vodou.
• Themes: Highlights the dangers of hubris and the importance of understanding one's roots.

Upcoming Events

The American Writers Museum will host several events leading up to the exhibit's opening, including:

• Author discussions
• A "Houses of Horror" museum tour on Halloween

The exhibit promises to be a fascinating exploration of how history, belief, and culture shape the world of horror writing.