What draws us to horror?

Is it the monsters? The mystery? The unsettling feeling that something isn’t quite right?

Or is it the opportunity to explore the parts of ourselves that are hardest to confront?

For the fourth episode of Beyond the Page, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Alex Grass, author of Infernal Tramps: Tales of Weird Terror. While our conversation begins with horror fiction, it quickly expands into something much deeper: a discussion about creativity, recovery, publishing, and why stories matter.

More Than Scares

Alex writes in the tradition of weird fiction, blending cosmic horror, psychological unease, and unsettling imagery into stories that linger long after you’ve finished reading.

It was Alex’s belief that the genre works best when it says something meaningful about the human experience.

Fear becomes more effective when readers care about the people experiencing it, and the strangest stories often reveal something deeply familiar about ourselves.

Finding Your Own Voice

Alex talks about reading widely, learning from the authors who inspire you, and eventually reaching the point where your own perspective begins to shine through.

It’s easy for new writers to imitate their favorite authors, but lasting stories come from combining influences with personal experience.

Horror as Exploration

From cosmic horror to body horror, the conversation explores why readers willingly step into uncomfortable places and how writers use fear to examine grief, identity, isolation, and change.

We also touch on some of the creators who have shaped the genre, including filmmakers and authors whose work continues to influence modern horror.

Whether you’re a lifelong horror fan or simply curious about why the genre resonates with so many readers, there’s plenty to enjoy here.

Creativity, Recovery & Second Chances

One of the most meaningful parts of our conversation had nothing to do with things that go bump in the night.

Alex speaks openly about recovery, personal growth, and the importance of finding purpose through creativity.

Writing became more than a hobby, it became a way to process experiences, reconnect with himself, and build something meaningful.

It’s an honest reminder that storytelling isn’t just entertainment. For many writers, it’s also a way of understanding life.

The Publishing Journey

Like many independent authors, Alex also shares the realities of publishing in today’s landscape.

We discuss:

• Building a writing routine
• Publishing independently
• Connecting with readers
• Balancing creativity with everyday responsibilities
• Continuing to grow as both a writer and a reader

For aspiring authors, there’s plenty of practical advice woven naturally throughout the conversation.

More Than Horror

Alex’s episode isn’t simply about horror fiction.

It’s about creativity, resilience, authenticity, and the many unexpected places that stories can take us.

Whether you’re interested in weird fiction, the writing process, or simply hearing thoughtful conversations with passionate creators, I hope you enjoy this episode.

Listen to the Episode

If you’re a fan of horror, speculative fiction, or conversations that go beyond the surface, I hope you’ll give this episode a listen.

Alex Grass offers an honest, engaging look at writing, creativity, and the experiences that shape both authors and the stories they tell.

Thank you for supporting Beyond the Page and Page Chewing.

I hope you’ll join us for another conversation where we continue exploring the stories behind the storytellers.

Let’s go Beyond the Page.

Featured author: Alex Grass

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About Beyond the Page

Beyond the Page is Page Chewing’s interview series featuring conversations with authors, artists, and storytellers from across fantasy, horror, crime fiction, historical fiction, comics, and beyond. Each episode explores writing, publishing, creativity, and the experiences that shape the stories we love, giving readers and writers an inside look at the people behind the page.