TIH 514: Dean Koontz on After Death, Suspense, Horror, and Science Fiction Labels, and His Unique Writing Voice
Jul 26, 2023
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Dean Koontz, celebrated writer in suspense and horror genres, discusses his new book After Death, labels in suspense and horror, his unique writing voice, finding the balance between comedy and suspense, the concept of the singularity, uncovering shared experiences, genre blending, supernatural warnings and tricks, and the importance of emotional wounds in horror.
Dean Koontz draws inspiration from various genres to shape his unique writing voice.
Religious themes are explored in Dean Koontz's books without imposing beliefs on readers.
Using diverse settings and unconventional characters adds depth and variety to Dean Koontz's narratives.
Deep dives
The Influence of Reading and Stubbornness on my Writing Voice
The most influential factors in developing my unique writing voice have been my extensive reading across various genres and my stubbornness to prove that I can write outside the confines of traditional labels. I draw inspiration from different genres and refuse to be limited by one specific category. This has shaped my writing style and allowed me to create stories that combine suspense, comedy, and other elements.
Reception of Religious Themes in my Writing
My religious faith has not caused any controversial responses from the horror or Catholic communities. While my books often explore religious themes and the existence of meaning and purpose in life, I do not proselytize or impose my beliefs on readers. I approach these themes from a personal perspective rather than trying to convert or persuade anyone. I have received positive feedback from readers of various faiths, including monks and nuns, who appreciate the exploration of meaning in my stories.
Writing Scenes with Multiple Genres and Points of View
When writing complex scenes that blend different genres and feature multiple points of view, it is important to keep the story fresh and engaging. By cutting away to different characters and their distinct concerns and emotions, I can maintain a fast-paced and suspenseful narrative. This technique allows me to balance tension, humor, and other elements to create a dynamic reading experience.
The Influence of Setting Diversity on Storytelling
Diverse settings, such as rich and elite neighborhoods, the 'hood,' and places like Eden, provide a canvas for storytelling with varying social strata and unique atmospheres. Through these settings, I can bring together different worlds and perspectives, showcasing the contrasts and interactions between characters from diverse backgrounds. It adds depth and variety to the narrative.
Exploring Unconventional Characters and Late Introductions
Introducing unconventional characters like One and Walter, who appear late in a story, adds layers to the narrative and brings unexpected dynamics. These characters, who have a unique relationship and bring elements of tension and comic relief, provide additional depth to the story and create compelling interactions with other characters. The lateness of their introduction helps build suspense and keeps readers engaged.
In this podcast, Dean Koontz talks about his new book After Death, suspense, horror, and science fiction labels, Dean’s unique writing voice, and much more. About Dean Koontz Acknowledged as “America’s most popular suspense novelist” (Rolling Stone) and as one of today’s most celebrated and successful writers, Dean Ray Koontz has earned the devotion of …
