In an article for Writer’s Digest, J. Fremont offers tips for avoiding clichés and bringing authenticity to your writing about ghosts and the supernatural. “Writing about something that is weird and unbelievable and achieving receptivity, that is overcoming disbelief, of your story is desirable,” Fremont says. “Things to consider when writing about ghosts and the supernatural in fiction are believability, research, and being particular.”
First, Fremont suggests you limit the amount of supernatural concepts you add to your story. “Sometimes, less is more, and having vampires, ghosts, aliens, and magic in your story can be overwhelming, not to mention destroy the credibility,” he says.
Second, even though you are writing about imaginary beings, you need to do your research. Research the history and lore of vampires and werewolves, or the studies into paranormal and extraterrestrial activity. “Reading about other’s experiences will inspire ideas for your story,” Fremont says. “Go on haunted tours, visit public haunted places, stay overnight in haunted hotels. Talk to people who work and spend time in those places.”
You should also consider that a good portion of your audience might believe your supernatural fiction is based in fact. Some 40 percent of U.S. adults believe in ghosts, while only 8 percent believe in vampires. “The ghost crowd could be a little more discerning because they may believe ghosts are real and will expect far greater realism in depiction than the vampire fans,” Fremont says.
