Mia Zacatenco – Staff Writer

As Halloween approaches, this fright-filled holiday beckons us to delve into and enjoy all different kinds of horror media, searching for that coveted adrenaline rush. Haunted houses, scary movies, even horror video games, are some of the most popular and promoted forms of horror around this time of year.

However, one forgotten form of horror that has paved the way and inspired some of its more modern successors, is horror literature. With the abundance of novels, short stories, and poems intended to frighten readers, the question of their ability to scare and be enjoyed are raised. How does one even enjoy horror literature? And where should you begin?

Set the atmosphere: Before you jump into a piece of horror literature, to ensure that you enjoy it and submerge yourself into the experience to the fullest, create the perfect environment for yourself. Dim the lights and light a candle, or hide under the covers and read with a flashlight; such an ambience will enhance your experience.

Pace yourself: Not all horror works need to be read rapidly; savor the suspense and the foreboding with the turn of each page. Take breaks and breathers when needed, but remember to have fun and enjoy those intense and hasty moments intended to frighten you.

Invest in your imagination: When enjoying horror literature, look past any skepticism and presumptions. Horror thrives and is built on emotions, so allow yourself to feel the fear and anticipation. The more engaged and imaginative you are, the more captivating the story will be. This Halloween season, take advantage of the many works of horror literature that are available for you to enjoy. Writers like Stephen King and Edgar Allan Poe have written some of the most iconic horror stories, and are essential recommendations to anybody looking to enjoy some frightening literature. With the right ambience and mindset, a terrifying time is almost guaranteed.