Puzzling Phenomena: A guide to paranormal fiction

Paranormal fiction encompasses an array of genres. A simple search for the term often yields outcomes related to ghost stories and shifter romances that involve vampires or werewolves. However, for me, the genre extends beyond these parameters.

The Latin prefix ‘para’ means “outside” or “beyond” what is normal. As such, paranormal phenomena dispute known natural laws and empirical evidence. Hence, paranormal fiction explores concepts that are beyond current scientific comprehension. Albeit, the emphasis is on ‘current scientific’ knowledge, since paranormal phenomena have the potential for future elucidation—even if the chances seem remote.

Central elements are psychic abilities and similar powers, inexplicable incidents, or extraterrestrial encounters. The paranormal also includes cryptozoology—a field where potential discovery or future explanations might unveil mysteries like Bigfoot or Nessie, the Loch Ness monster.

In contrast, the supernatural covers forces and entities that lie beyond the grasp of scientific explanation altogether. These include concepts such as the afterlife, souls, gods, and angels.

Origins and History

Similar to supernatural fiction, paranormal fiction has its roots in ancient folklore and oral traditions, in which people passed down tales of ghosts and other beings down through generations. These early narratives served not only as entertainment but also as cautionary tales. They also explored humanity’s fascination with the unknown and our attempts to make sense of the world beyond our understanding.

The modern incarnation of the genre emerged during the 19th and early 20th centuries, a period marked by burgeoning interest in spiritualism and the exploration of psychic phenomena. This era witnessed a fascination with the unknown that led to the rise of literary works that delved into unexplainable encounters. As spiritualism gained traction and mediums claimed to communicate with the dead, the line between the paranormal and the supernatural became increasingly blurred. This ambiguity persists until today and makes a clear distinction nearly impossible.

Paranormal fiction experienced a resurgence in popularity during the mid-20th century, fueled in part by advancements in science and technology that sparked renewed interest in the paranormal. The authors explored themes of astonishing abilities, inexplicable incidents, and cryptic creatures. This period also saw the rise of pulp magazines and paperback novels, providing a platform for writers to experiment with new ideas and push the boundaries of the genre.

One notable figure is Octavia E. Butler, whose “Patternist” series features characters with telepathic and telekinetic powers. Another is Dean Koontz, who has carved out a niche for himself in the realm of paranormal suspense. With novels like “Strangers”, “Lightning”, “Midnight”, “Watchers”, and “Phantoms”, Koontz has earned widespread acclaim with his skillful blend of paranormal thrills and compelling characters.

Stephen King, often hailed as the “King of Horror”, has also made significant contributions to the paranormal genre with works such as “The Dead Zone” and “The Colorado Kid”.

Paranormal fiction has played a pivotal role in the establishment of comics in which characters with extrasensory perception, telekinesis, empathy, and clairvoyance have become commonplace. These characters often grapple with the challenges of their abilities while exploring the boundaries of human potential and the mysteries of the universe.

Themes

Power and control are consistent themes, as characters wrestle with the consequences of their (newfound) abilities. These characters often find themselves thrust into extraordinary circumstances, where they must confront unknown forces, unravel (ancient) mysteries, or grapple with their (newfound) innate gifts such as empathy, telepathy, telekinesis, or clairvoyance. These narratives explore the complexities of power dynamics and the effects of unchecked authority.

Isolation and alienation are common experiences for the main characters, whether caused by their special abilities or encounters with unknown phenomena. The profound sense of loneliness that comes from being different or misunderstood is a recurring theme.

Furthermore, the desire to uncover the truth and gain knowledge often motivates the protagonists. Whether unraveling the central mystery or exploring their powers, they confront existential questions and the nature of reality. Their journey is marked by discovery, revelation, and sometimes even disillusionment as they navigate the boundaries between the known and the unknown.

Protagonists and Settings

The protagonists are often professional investigators or ordinary individuals drawn into the paranormal world by chance or fate. The narratives typically chronicle their endeavors to untangle the mystery at the story's core.

The settings in this genre are as diverse as the myriad phenomena these stories explore. They range from ordinary towns and cities to alternate or parallel dimensions—and sometimes even fantastical realms. In these worlds, the laws of physics and conventional reality are frequently bent or broken, and the inhabitants grapple with forces beyond their comprehension. These settings serve as a backdrop for the puzzling events that drive the story forward.

Subgenres

Paranormal mystery, suspense, thriller, and romance are notable subgenres, each with its unique blend of paranormal elements and storytelling conventions. 

Paranormal mystery entails the classic tropes of mystery fiction. These stories revolve around sleuths who use their abilities to investigate unexplained phenomena or solve crimes, regardless of whether they are amateurs or professionals. These stories typically unfold against a backdrop of eerie settings and follow the protagonists as they uncover hidden truths.

In paranormal suspense, the characters confront unknown threats and navigate perilous situations. These stories often feature protagonists who face off against external adversaries or struggle with personal demons. Suspenseful pacing and atmospheric tension create a sense of unease and draw readers deeper into the paranormal world.

Paranormal thrillers ramp up the action and intensity, as they blend paranormal elements with pulse-pounding suspense and high-stakes drama. Protagonists find themselves thrust into a world of danger, as they face off against malevolent forces and race against time to avert catastrophe. With adrenaline-fueled action and unexpected twists, paranormal thrillers deliver an exhilarating rollercoaster ride of suspense and excitement.

Finally, paranormal romance weaves the paranormal elements into tales of love and passion. These stories often feature star-crossed lovers from different worlds or races. Protagonists navigate the challenges of love and desire; themes of destiny, sacrifice, and redemption often add depth to the romantic narrative.

Conclusion

In a world where the line between fact and fiction becomes increasingly blurred, paranormal fiction offers an outlet for imagination, exploration, and discovery. Paranormal narratives are replete with unexplained and unresolved mysteries, and feature characters with extraordinary abilities that extend beyond the realm of conventional human experience.

Paranormal elements can seamlessly merge with genres such as mystery, suspense, thriller, and romance, and thus offer a spectrum of tones ranging from lighthearted and comedic to intense and somber.