Welcome back to another intriguing installment of our journey together. Today, I want to take you behind the scenes and delve into the inspirations that have shaped the haunting world of "Who Put Bella in the Wych Elm?" Join me as we explore the captivating influences that sparked my imagination and set the stage for this chilling tale.

When it comes to the origins of this story, two notable sources stand out—-the original Japanese movie, "Ringu" (1998), and the haunting novel "The Woman in Black" by Susan Hill, which was later adapted into a film starring the Daniel Radcliffe.

"Ringu" left an indelible mark on my psyche, thanks to its initial shock factor upon its release. The haunting antagonist, Samara, with her eerie emergence from the well, relentlessly pursuing her victims, imprinted unforgettable visuals in my mind. While I consciously separated these visuals from the character of Bella, ensuring a distinct identity, I cannot deny that they served as a wellspring of inspiration. The relentless pursuit and the sense of otherworldly horror were elements that resonated with me and infused my storytelling.

Now, let's venture into the realm of "The Woman in Black" and its titular character, Jennet Humfrye. Susan Hill's chilling novel and the subsequent movie adaptation captivated my imagination (and terrified my wife). Jennet Humfrye's insatiable wrath and her undeniably creepy aura left an indelible impression on me. The atmosphere of the story, the slow-burning tension, and the portrayal of an unyielding ghost fueled my creative fire. "The Woman in Black" has earned its rightful place among my top three favorite works in the horror genre, leaving an undeniable influence on the creation of Bella's character and the haunting essence of this tale.

But what is it about female and child antagonists (ghosts, monsters, etc) that makes them particularly powerful in the realm of horror? The answer lies in the stark contrast between our societal expectations and the chilling reality. In our world, we often associate men with violence, ruthlessness, and evil intentions. Statistaclly, most serial killers and perpetrators of violence are male. However, women and children are perceived as innocent and pure. This contrast between our expectations and the horrors we encounter in books and movies creates a profound sense of shock. It challenges our preconceived notions and taps into the primal fear that lies within us all: the horror of the unexpected.

Throughout the history of horror, numerous examples illustrate the power of female ghost antagonists. From vengeful spirits seeking retribution to spectral entities lurking in the shadows, women possess a unique ability to embody both innocence and terrifying malevolence. Their presence on the other side of the supernatural veil creates a dissonance that amplifies the psychological impact on our senses, leaving us captivated and unnerved.

As I set out to craft "Who Put Bella in the Wych Elm?", these inspirations played a crucial role in shaping the haunting world I wished to create. Drawing from the unforgettable visuals of "Ringu" and the chilling aura of Jennet Humfrye in "The Woman in Black," I sought to evoke an atmosphere that would immerse you in the depths of fear and suspense.

Stay tuned for more updates, insights, and glimpses into the writing process as we approach the release of "Who Put Bella in the Wych Elm?"

Yours eerily,
Blake

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