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Exploring the Themes and Tropes of Supernatural Stories
- Eva Pohler
- Mar 31
- 5 min read
Updated: Apr 1
Supernatural stories have captivated audiences for centuries. From eerie folklore to modern-day urban legends, these tales offer a glimpse into the unexplained. They explore the boundaries of reality and delve into the depths of human fear, curiosity, and wonder. In this blog post, we will dissect the common themes and tropes that define supernatural narratives, providing insights and examples that highlight their lasting impact in our culture.
Understanding Supernatural Stories
Supernatural stories often revolve around elements that defy natural laws. They integrate fantastical elements like ghosts, monsters, gods, and magic, challenging our understanding of what is real. These stories can be found in various forms of media, including literature, film, and folklore. They serve not only as entertainment but also as a medium for exploring deep and sometimes unsettling truths about the human experience.
In today’s digital age, the resurgence of interest in supernatural themes can be attributed to their universal appeal. With countless adaptations and retellings, the genre continues to evolve while maintaining its foundational elements. This flexibility allows supernatural tales to remain relevant, addressing contemporary issues and fears.
Common Themes in Supernatural Stories
The Unknown and Mysterious
At the heart of many supernatural stories is the exploration of the unknown. This theme plays on our innate fear of the dark and the things that lurk within it. It can encompass everything from the mystery of death to the existence of life on other planets. For instance, in The Haunting of Hill House, by Shirley Jackson, the characters confront both the physical haunting of the mansion and their inner demons, intertwining personal trauma with the supernatural. Likewise, in my novel, The Secrets of the Greek Revival, the three main characters--Ellen, Sue, and Tanya--uncover the feelings of invisibility experienced by the women trapped in the mansion along with their own--new--feelings of invisibility as they age.
Isolation and Alienation
Another prevalent theme is isolation. Characters often find themselves in settings that enhance their sense of alienation. This isolation can be physical, as in a haunted house, or emotional, stemming from personal issues or societal disconnection. Stephen King's Misery exemplifies this theme; the protagonist, Paul Sheldon, finds himself trapped by his captor in a remote location, subjected to psychological and physical torment. In a similar vein, Daphne, in my novel The Purgatorium, finds herself lost on the haunted side of a remote island where her parents have sent her for experimental "suicide therapy."
Morality and Consequences
Supernatural stories frequently serve as cautionary tales. They often personify the struggle between good and evil, highlighting moral dilemmas and the consequences of human actions. A great example is The Picture of Dorian Gray, by Oscar Wilde, where the protagonist's quest for eternal youth leads him down a path of corruption, illustrating the dangers of vanity and excess. That quest is echoed in my novel, Vampire Addiction, in which Gertie's growing obsession with vampire powers leaves her unhinged.
The Supernatural as a Reflection of Humanity
Many authors utilize supernatural elements as symbols or metaphors for real-life issues. Through ghosts or monsters, they can address themes like grief, loss, and existential fear. In Ghosts, a play by Henrik Ibsen, the supernatural reflects social issues like the consequences of past actions and the burdens of inherited guilt. I utilize a similar theme in my new series, Twilight Society Mysteries, in which ghosts seek the living to help them set the record straight for unsolved crimes or for the wrongly convicted.
Hope and Redemption
Contrary to the darker aspects of supernatural tales, many narratives also emphasize hope and redemption. Characters often follow a journey that leads them to confront their fears, ultimately leading to growth. Neil Gaiman's The Graveyard Book presents a character raised by ghosts, demonstrating that even in the afterlife, one can find belonging and purpose. In my novel, The Shade of Santa Fe, a ghost finds redemption for crimes he committed not while alive but as a ghost made evil by resentment developed though a lifetime of oppression.
What are Good Paranormal Books?
Paranormal literature offers a treasure trove of amazing reads that delve into supernatural themes. Here are a few noteworthy recommendations:
The Turn of the Screw, by Henry James: This novel depicts a young governess, hired to care for two orphaned children, Miles and Flora, at a remote estate, where she becomes increasingly convinced that the children are being haunted by the ghosts of a former governess and a former servant, who were involved in a scandalous relationship (the inspiration for the series The Haunting of Bly Manor).
The Shining, by Stephen King: An iconic horror story that explores the isolation of the Overlook Hotel and the descent into madness.
The Lovely Bones, by Alice Sebold: A unique narrative that combines elements of the afterlife, focusing on how one girl’s spirit interacts with her family after her tragic death.
These books not only encapsulate the genre but also resonate with readers on deeper emotional levels.
The Role of Culture in Supernatural Stories
Supernatural stories are deeply influenced by cultural beliefs and societal norms. Folklore varies significantly across the globe, reflecting the unique fears and values of different communities. For example, Japanese folklore, with its yōkai and supernatural entities, embodies cultural anxieties surrounding death and existence, while Western tales often focus on ghosts and the afterlife.
Additionally, cultural shifts can alter the way supernatural themes are interpreted. Contemporary stories may address societal fears such as technology, climate change, and social injustice. As society evolves, so too does the interpretation of what is considered supernatural, expanding the genre in unexpected ways.
Crafting Your Own Supernatural Story
If you feel inspired to create your own supernatural tale, here are a few tips:
Draw from Personal Experience: Use your own fears and experiences as a foundation. Reflecting on what scares or fascinates you can ground your story in authenticity.
Employ Atmosphere: Atmosphere is key in supernatural stories. Consider the setting, weather, and mood to evoke a sense of the uncanny. Use descriptive language to transport the reader into your world.
Build Strong Characters: Create multifaceted characters that embody the themes you wish to explore. Characters should evolve in response to the supernatural elements, enhancing the narrative's emotional depth.
Engage with Tropes, but Innovate: While using established tropes can make your story relatable, don’t hesitate to twist them for uniqueness. Readers appreciate fresh takes on familiar themes.
Seek Constructive Critique: Share your drafts with trusted peers or writing groups. Constructive feedback can help refine your narrative and identify areas for improvement.
By analyzing the themes and tropes of supernatural stories, we gain insight into the human psyche and the unexplained phenomena that haunt our imaginations.
Final Thoughts
Exploring supernatural stories opens doors to understanding both ourselves and our societies. These narratives reflect our hopes, fears, and beliefs, allowing us to confront the unknown in a safe and engaging way. Whether through classic literary works or modern adaptations, the tropes and themes persist, resonating through generations. As we continue to tell these tales, they will evolve while remaining anchored in the fundamental aspects of the human experience.
Engage with these stories—be it through reading, writing, or discussion—and discover the broader meanings woven within the fabric of supernatural narratives. Who knows? You might just uncover the mysteries that lie within your imagination.
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