The World Is A Vampire

Here's the world's most horribly kept secret: I love vampire stories. Love them. And it's obvious that I'm not alone. Vampire stories have been a staple of American culture for years and years. Dracula, Lestat, Angel, Spike, and Edward. Names that, in our world of pop culture, are immortal. (Ha!)

I recently picked up the short story collection Immortal which features vampire love stories by popular YA authors like Rachel Caine (Morganville Vampires series) and Claudia Gray (Evernight). In the introduction the editor, House of Night author P.C. Cast, pontificates on why it is that young people (and some not so young) are drawn to vampire stories. She comes to two conclusions. The first is the obvious answer: sex. Vampires are sexy. End of story.

Her other theory, however, is quite interesting. She thinks that teens identify with vampires because they too believe that they are immortal. She believes that teens also see themselves as non-changing and being thrust into a world that is both exciting in terrifying in the way that it changes, much like the vampire. Interesting theory. But I'm not buying it.

I think we like vampire stories because they personify the fear we have of falling in love. That whole meeting someone and letting your emotions get the best of you thing? Terrifying. Irrational and terrifying. At least when you're falling in love with someone who has a strong desire to treat you as dinner instead of to dinner, there is a reason to totally flip out.

Plus, you know, vampires are just cool. Do we really need a better reason than that?