2007 Judge's Comments: Mark Smith-Briggs
What makes a great horror story? Is it the unspeakable thing in the dark or the mild-mannered accountant with a sinister secret? It is an exploration of the darkest depths of the imagination or a subversion of the real world? Can it be subtle and creep up on us unexpectedly, or should it be splattered with blood and mutilation? Does it need a plot and engaging characters, or can it function on the concept of fear alone? Can it be all of the above? And just how do you rate splatter punk flash fiction piece against a psychological thriller novel?
These were just some of types of questions that we as judges had to answer when selecting a short list for this year’s Australian Shadows award – an award that recognises excellence in published Australian horror novels, stories, poems and role-playing games that scared the “bejesus” out of us.
Take it upon yourself to read our final shortlist, and even the honourable mentions, and you’ll find a diverse range of horror nasties; from traditional ghosts and ghouls, to alien life forms, deranged religious freaks and intelligent, calculating killers. But what you will find in common is each author’s ability to craft an excellent story; one with rich characters, well-established, believable realities (for the purpose of the story anyway) and yes, the ability to send a tremor down your spine. For these are the tales we perceived to be 2007’s great horror stories.
As with last year, there are always a number of entries that individual judges put forward which end up missing the final “cut” for one reason or the other. Other stories worthy of your attention include From the Sick Trees (David Conyers), Working Stiffs (Jeff Harris), Unholy Light (James R. Cain), Just a Game (George Ivanoff), and As Above, So Below (David Conyers). The Daijaikau 2 and In Bad Dreams anthologies also make excellent reads.
2007 marks the end of a two-year tour of duty for me as an Australian Shadows judge. It’s a responsibility I have been honoured to carry. As a long-time horror reader it’s been rewarding to be able to acknowledge stories that stood out from the pack, and a challenge to ensure that only the very best for each year are put forward. I leave this stint with the knowledge that Australian horror is on the up, and with new talent entering the pool things are only going to get brighter (or is that darker?). So welcome your nightmares and record your darkest fears – Australian Shadows 2008 is waiting.
Back to 2007 Shorlist