How to Write Folk Horror: Unearthing the Darkness Beneath

Folk Horror Creative Writing

If tales of siren cults, wendigos, and the fae have your creative gears turning, you're not alone. Folk horror, with its rich tapestry of rural settings, ancient rituals, and lurking dread, offers a fertile ground for storytelling. Here's how to weave your own chilling narrative:

1. Let the Setting Breathe (or Creep)

In folk horror, the environment isn't just a backdrop—it's a character. Think of a wooden shack that stands on chicken legs when unobserved, or woods that change their scent based on the traveler. These settings seduce, ensnare, and sometimes consume.​

Consider:

• What makes this place unique?​

• Why are people drawn to it, despite warnings?​

• How does it "feed," and what remnants does it leave?​

Folk horror thrives on curiosity and the unknown. Your setting should evoke a sense of unease, making readers question what's real and what's imagined.

2. Chronicle the Land Through Its Monsters

Every place has its legends. In folk horror, these legends often stem from the creatures—human or otherwise—that inhabit the land. Crafting a history from the perspective of these entities can reveal the origins of local customs, taboos, and fears.​

Dive into:

• How did these beings influence the culture?​

• What events led to the establishment of certain rituals or beliefs?​

• How do the locals perceive these entities—are they revered, feared, or both?​

By understanding the monsters' impact, you can create a layered narrative where past and present intertwine.​

3. Rituals: The Thin Line Between Protection and Peril

Rituals in folk horror aren't mere superstitions—they're survival mechanisms. They might involve boarding up homes, lighting specific candles, or crafting protective symbols. These practices, often rooted in ancient beliefs, serve as barriers against malevolent forces.​

Reflect on:

• What daily rituals do the characters perform, and why?​

• What happens when these rituals fail or are neglected?​

• Are there sacrifices involved, and what do they signify?​

Incorporating authentic rituals, possibly inspired by real-world practices, can add depth and realism to your story.​

4. Further Exploration

For those eager to delve deeper into folk horror, the documentary Woodlands Dark and Days Bewitched offers a comprehensive look into the genre's evolution. Additionally, consider exploring the following books:​

• Shapeshifters: A History by John B. Kachuba

• The World of Lore: Monstrous Creatures by Aaron Mahnke

• Cunning Folk: Life in the Era of Practical Magic by Tabitha Stanmore

• Cultish: The Language of Fanaticism by Amanda Montell

• God’s Monsters: Vengeful Spirits, Deadly Angels, Hybrid Creatures, and Divine Hitmen of the Bible by Esther J. Hamori

These resources provide insights into folklore, rituals, and tthe human psyche's darker corners, enriching your understanding and storytelling prowess.​