Introduction

The question of whether horror books today are as good as they were in the 1980s is not an easy one to answer. Quality, as defined by many, is often subjective. However, it's worth exploring the context in which these books were produced and how that might have influenced their quality.

The 1980s: A Golden Age of Horror

During the 1980s, horror experienced a significant surge that catapulted it to new levels of popularity and acceptance. This era was marked by an increase in the number of horror novels and a broader audience reach. The Stephen King effect played a crucial role in this phenomenon. Stephen King's success and popularity brought horror literature to the forefront of the literary world, paving the way for many new and undiscovered writers.

At the same time, the 1980s saw a general surge in book publishing, allowing a greater number of writers of horror to secure contracts with major publishing houses. These writers had access to the resources and expertise of highly-skilled editors who helped refine and improve their work. This collaboration often resulted in novels that were polished to a higher degree, contributing to their perceived quality and literary sophistication.

The Rise of Amazon and the Decline of Traditional Bookstores

By the 21st century, the landscape of book publishing underwent a significant transformation, driven primarily by the rise of Amazon. This technological giant has reshaped the industry in ways that both benefited and harmed the book trade. While it facilitated greater accessibility to literature, it also led to the decline of traditional bookstores, resulting in a less tangible and personal reading experience.

Additionally, the trend towards e-books and digital reading has further eroded the physical book market. This shift has undoubtedly affected the horror genre, as it does with most others. Small, niche publishing houses now have more prominence, and these publishers often focus on particular genres, such as horror, with a greater sense of passion rather than profit motive.

Modern Horror: A Shift in Focus

Today, many horror books produced by major publishing houses are less frequent. This trend could be attributed to the changing tastes of mainstream audiences. While Stephen King still commands a large fan base, his influence alone is no longer enough to sustain a robust horror market. Horror has indeed gone out of fashion for some, with fewer people reading it for entertainment purposes.

However, the niche market for horror is thriving. Smaller publishing houses continue to produce quality horror novels, albeit in smaller quantities. These books are often labors of love rather than commercial enterprises, which can result in a different level of quality. These publishers often have a more passionate dedication to the genre, which can lead to a more authentic and dedicated storytelling.

Concurrency and Quality: Past and Present

While the 1980s arguably provided a more fertile ground for horror authors to flourish, it is not to say that modern horror books are inherently inferior. The quality of a book is often a culmination of many factors, including the inborn talent of the writer and the support and dedication of a publishing house. In the past, horror authors often received advances, allowing them more time to focus on their craft without the distractions of a demanding day job, a factor not always present today.

Today, while there are still numerous people writing horror, the industry has also undergone shifts that have impacted their success. The commercial incentive for horror authors has changed, and this can be both a blessing and a curse. On one hand, without the constant push for sales, there is often a greater focus on artistic integrity and storytelling. On the other hand, without the commercial backing, these books may not reach as wide an audience.

Conclusion: A Call for Accountability

The impact of Amazon on the book trade is a topic of significant debate. While it has reshaped the industry and improved access to books, it has also created a monopoly that limits the diversity of literature. Traditional bookstores and the personal connection they represent are at risk. This shift has taken power away from the advocates, booksellers, literary critics, and librarians who are passionate about fostering a love for books and maintaining a variety of literary tastes.

In conclusion, while the 1980s were a golden age for horror, books today are still capable of quality storytelling. The landscape has simply shifted, and the focus is now on niche markets and dedicated storytelling rather than mass production and commercial success.