In our latest Shadows & Ink Mastermind session, we delved into the shadowy depths of subtext with none other than horror aficionado Gary A. Braunbeck. Our discussion centered around dissecting the layers beneath the surface of several compelling stories, with Jack Ketchum’s “Gone” serving as a standout example. For those looking to further explore the art of subtext, we recommend immersing yourselves in the works of Raymond Chandler, Raymond Carver, Kobo Abe, and Amy Hempel, each a master in weaving complex undercurrents into their narratives.
Horror fiction thrives on the ability to evoke fear and suspense, often using more than just the literal threats that its characters face. Subtext, the underlying message or theme that goes beyond the literal narrative, plays a crucial role in enriching the reader’s experience and providing deeper social or psychological insights. In horror, subtext allows authors to explore complex themes of human nature, societal issues, and existential fears, all while entertaining the reader with chilling tales. This essay will delve into the function of subtext in horror fiction, highlighted with examples from well-known works.
The Nature of Subtext
Subtext in horror operates on a level that often remains felt but unseen. It’s the undercurrent of a story, conveying meanings that are not explicitly stated in the text but are inferred through dialogue, setting, character actions, and symbolic elements. By engaging with the subtext, readers can find a story more relatable or disturbing, as it connects with their personal fears and societal anxieties.
Examples of Subtext in Horror Fiction
1. The Haunting of Hill House by Shirley Jackson
Shirley Jackson’s seminal work, The Haunting of Hill House, does not merely tell a story about a haunted house; it explores themes of isolation, motherhood, and identity. The house itself serves as a metaphor for the mind of the main character, Eleanor, whose past trauma and repressed emotions mirror the mysterious and malevolent forces within the mansion. The subtext of the house as a psychological prison reflects on the broader human experience of confronting personal ghosts and mental entrapment.
2. Get Out by Jordan Peele
Though technically a film, Jordan Peele’s Get Out offers a compelling example of subtext in horror through its exploration of racial tensions and the commodification of black bodies. The plot, which at first glance revolves around a young African-American man visiting his white girlfriend’s parents, delves into the horrors of liberal racism and cultural appropriation. The chilling atmosphere and suspense are underpinned by a critique of real-world social issues, making the horror both topical and terrifying.
3. Frankenstein by Mary Shelley
Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein is often interpreted as a cautionary tale about the dangers of scientific hubris, but its subtext touches on deeper issues of abandonment, societal rejection, and the human need for companionship and acceptance. The monster, an embodiment of the outcast, reflects the consequences of unethical behavior and emotional neglect. Shelley’s narrative challenges the readers to empathize with the creature, questioning the true source of monstrosity in the tale.
4. “The Yellow Wallpaper” by Charlotte Perkins Gilman
In this short story, Gilman uses the motif of the wallpaper to represent the oppression of women, particularly concerning mental health and autonomy. The protagonist’s descent into madness can be read as a direct critique of the medical and patriarchal control over women’s bodies and minds in the 19th century. The horrifying transformation and eventual breakdown she undergoes serve as a powerful metaphor for the destructive effects of these oppressive forces.
The Impact of Subtext on the Reader
Subtext enriches a horror story by adding layers of meaning that resonate on a personal and societal level. It allows writers to comment on social issues, explore universal human fears, and engage readers in a deeper, more reflective experience. This engagement not only heightens the emotional response but also encourages critical thinking, as readers unravel the layered meanings.
In horror fiction, subtext is a powerful tool for storytelling. It transforms straightforward tales of terror into rich, multifaceted narratives that challenge the reader’s perceptions and provoke deeper consideration of the human condition and societal constructs. As seen in works like The Haunting of Hill House, Get Out, Frankenstein, and “The Yellow Wallpaper,” subtext is what often makes horror stories not only frightening but profoundly significant. Through the use of subtext, horror fiction transcends simple scare tactics and becomes a mirror reflecting the darkest aspects of society and the human psyche.
Until next time,
Joe Mynhardt
