Why We Crave Horror Movies
Quickwrite #10
• Respond to Stephen King’s essay “Why We Crave Horror
Movies” on p. 324. Write a CLEAR THESIS that answers
whichever of the following questions applies to you, and
support that thesis for the rest of your quickwrite.
• Option 1: If you DO watch horror films, do you relate
to/agree with King’s reasons that people watch these types
of movies?
• Option 2: If you DO NOT watch horror films, do you have a
better understanding of why people do watch them, having
read this essay?
• Prove to me that you read and understood the essay by
what you write. Use quote sandwiches.
A Few Reminders about Thesis
Statements:
• A thesis statement is a CLAIM, which means that
it…
– Invites discussion by putting forward a claim.
• Not a statement of undisputed fact.
• Not a question
– Specifically ANSWERS the question in the prompt.
– Is an OPINION (point of view/stance) that is…
• Supported by responses to research/sources AND/OR
• Supported by logic and sound critical thinking
– A preview of what your ENTIRE essay will prove.
• Strike a balance between “too vague” and “too specific.”
“Why We Crave Horror Movies”
• What are some of the reasons the King puts
forward for why horror movies are so popular?
• As a writer, which of King’s reasons was most
convincing or intriguing?
• What are some of the cultural trends that,
according to King, horror movies respond to/push
back against?
• Can you think of any other genres of
film/tv/literature that are responding to or
pushing back against a particular cultural trend?
Where should you be at this point in
your research?
• You should have read and annotated at least five
sources that address your question.
• You should be ready to answer the question you asked
in your research proposal. This answer will be your
thesis.
• You should be able to explain three or four reasons
why you answer your research proposal the way you
do. These reasons will each need to be explained in at
least one body paragraph.
• You should be choosing quotes and statistics/facts from
your research that will be helpful in supporting your
thesis.