I didn’t realize I’ve turned into a literary elitist snob. I can’t tell you the last time I’ve read a Stephen King book -what with them being for the unwashed masses and all. It has to be upwards of two decades. I USED to read every book he wrote, every time it was released. Then I got my degree and his works were beneath me. Fast forward to now. I have a disabled sister who recently moved into long term care. When I visit, I read to her. She requested that I read Cujo. I read Cujo when it was first released in 1981, 40+ years ago. Reading it now, all these years later, I just cannot express how impressed I am with the craftsmanship of the writing. Read it, that’s all I have to say - that man, he knows how to write a thriller.
I have a master’s degree in Rhetoric and Composition. I work as a professional writer and have for almost 20 years. Neither of these facts make me any better - or more intelligent - than anyone else. I was extremely lucky to have the opportunity to attend school and find a career I enjoy. That is all.
Horror is one of my favorite genres. I also love poetry and literature.
People read what they enjoy. Sometimes they read to escape incredibly cerebral jobs. Sometimes they read to be intellectually stimulated.
I am glad that you rediscovered an enjoyment of Stephen King. However, I truly hope that you do not see people in terms of being part of “[the] unwashed masses.” Such a point of view is genuinely revolting.
We are humans. Period.