Is Paranormal Literature Just a Trend?

Every time I make the library newsletters, the teen newsletter in particular, it always hits me how paranormal novels seem to dominate the fiction scene these days.  What is it about paranormal literature?  Why has it become so popular?  What does it say about us and our tastes?

I'm going to be honest and admit upfront that I've read some paranormal fiction (anyone heard of Twilight?), but I'm far from being a fine connoisseur of the genre.  Many people, however, are devouring books that have the slightest to do with vampires, werewolves, witches, angels, and anything else outside the range of the mundane.  And if there's a sprinkle of romance or sex mixed in the story, even better.

Paranormal elements in literature is nothing new.  The Ancient Greeks told stories of the gods and their involvement with humans in their tragedies and comedies; Shakespeare had fairies and sprites in his dramas; and later, novelists such as Shelley and Stoker came up with death-defying creatures.

What's happening now is simply a continuation of a centuries-old literary tradition that stirs the imagination, creating an escape from people's everyday troubles.  Van Helsing fighting Dracula seems a bit more intimidating than dealing with a fractious spouse, thus making our own problems appear smaller (well, maybe).  Considering the economic climate today, do we want to read about ordinary people like ourselves who are struggling to get jobs or make ends meet, or do we want to read about fantastic beings with supernatural powers who can kick some serious butt?

For the record, I'm currently reading The Thirteen Hallows by Michael Scott and Colette Freedman.  It's about ancient objects with deadly powers that can influence the people.

(Para)normally yours from the perch.