Shardcast: The Brandon Sanderson Podcast
Brandon Sanderson's Use of Horror
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- Brandon seamlessly incorporates body horror in Mistborn with unsettling creatures like koloss and inquisitors, enhancing the darker tones of his narratives.
- In the cosmere, Brandon introduces cosmic horror through the vast, incomprehensible Shards like Odium and Preservation, invoking feelings of dread and insignificance.
- Dark phantasy elements in Mistborn emphasize moral ambiguity and oppression, adding depth to the storyline amidst heroism and optimism.
- Brandon infuses folk horror in his works, exploring mysterious traditions in remote settings like the Forests of Hell in Stormlight Archive, evoking supernatural superstitions.
Deep dives
Use of Horror Elements in Brandon's Book
Brandon weaves horror elements into his storytelling in a subtle and pervasive manner. For example, in his Mistborn series, he introduces body horror through descriptions of monstrous creatures like the koloss and inquisitors. These entities, though not explicitly gory, instill a sense of unease and revulsion in readers, enhancing the darker aspects of his narratives.
Exploration of Cosmic Horror in Shard Descriptions
In Brandon's cosmere, the concept of cosmic horror is touched upon through the descriptions of the Shards. The beings like Odium and Preservation are depicted as vast, incomprehensible entities with motives beyond human understanding. This portrayal instills a sense of insignificance and dread, reminiscent of cosmic horror tropes.
Dark Phantasy Elements in Brandon's Works
While Brandon's works often lean towards heroism and optimism, there are undertones of dark phantasy present. For example, in the Mistborn series, the oppressive rule of the Lord Ruler and the bleak environment of the Final Empire create a sense of grimness and moral ambiguity. This contrast between light and darkness adds depth to the storytelling and explores darker themes within a traditional fantasy setting.
Folk Horror in Remote Settings and Mythological Elements
Brandon subtly incorporates folk horror elements into his narratives, particularly evident in remote settings like the Forests of Hell in the Stormlight Archive. The mysterious rules and traditions of the Shades evoke a sense of superstition and isolation, akin to folklore tales involving hidden beliefs and unsettling communities. Additionally, the enigmatic character of the Nightwatcher in the cosmere hints at folktale influences and mythical lore, adding layers of mystery and intrigue to the world-building.
Complexity and Intricacies of Ghost Stories
Ghost stories delve into the depths of human existence, reflecting on themes of the soul, morality, and history. Spirits in these tales serve as embodiments of justice, seeking retribution for past wrongs and illustrating the burden of ancestral ties. The intricate narratives of ghost stories unfold through psychologically elaborate depictions, where characters must confront tragedy and confront their own sins.
Exploring Gothic Horror's Reflection of Humanity
Gothic horror exposes the dark underbelly of human nature, challenging societal facades and delving into wickedness and depravity that lie beneath civility. These narratives spotlight intense emotions, heart-wrenching choices, and the interplay between virtue and evil. Characters in gothic horror embody deep passions, facing unrepentant villains and dark secrets that shatter illusions of perfection.
Diving into Disaster Horror's Post-Apocalyptic Realities
Disaster horror unfolds in worlds teetering on the brink of ruin, where cataclysmic events reshape societies and challenge survivors to endure brutal environments. Whether facing natural or supernatural threats, characters confront scarcity, anarchy, and the collapse of civilization. As the world crumbles, individuals grapple with extreme behaviors, haunting choices, and the harrowing struggle for survival amidst relentless chaos.
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