Are Zombies, Vampires, Werewolves and Superheroes Real?

As someone with an over-active imagination, I have a different take on fictional beings like zombies, vampires, werewolves and superheroes. I've believed for a lifetime that these tall tales tell truths about human nature in a larger-than-life manner. Sinister or spectacular, they reflect parts of everyone's psyche.

Through a realistic lens, here's my evolving take on these topics:

Vampires can be interpreted as persons whose demeanor or interactions drain all with whom they're involved. Some observers across disciplines call these folks 'energy vampires.' Instead of blood they suck motivation out of us. I've encountered people who literally made me feel exhausted by their very presence. I'm sure you have too.

While crosses, holy water, garlic and sunlight stop horror and some science fiction vampires 'dead' in their tracks-pun intended-avoidance serves the same purpose. People and relationships, personal and professional, which drain life out of you are best left alone. Wouldn't you flee Dracula or the Kurt Barlow vampire from the 'Salems Lot' franchise?

My fondness for zombie fiction is already well documented. I'll add that this version of the undead corresponds with middle class concerns about being consumed by sudden, inescapable rage. Rampant crime, riots, terrorism and war are what wary security watchers guard against. These events show how actual equivalents to zombies can figuratively eat their way through society.

Werewolves tap our primal fear of being torn apart by canines hunting us like helpless prey. Similar to the zombie example, literal werewolves are otherwise normal people who become raging maniacs without rhyme or reason. Toss in speculation regarding how full moons trigger aggressive or murderous behavior for good measure. On a primal level, no one wants to be mauled. These characters warn us to beware those who tear people apart through untimely outbursts.

Lastly, the question of whether superheroes are real was definitively answered during the twenty-first century's first decade. It saw 'real life superheroes,' global costumed activists take on public hunger and safety issues in a digital age. Social media threw them out of the shadows and onto printed pages, television and documentaries. The concept itself has existed in one form or another for decades. I communicate with a few of these activists and my advocacy is a distant first cousin to their colorful efforts.

Google, 'real life superheroes' or RLSH for more information. Especially the late Dale Pople, 'Superhero'.

Portrait of A Superhero, Award Winning Documentary Film About Dale Pople, Real Life Superhero (Tony Armer, October 11th, 2019).

I think zombies, vampires, werewolves and superheroes are as real as parallels to be drawn in daily life. I've encountered numerous people who personify these beings.

Says alot about human nature in ways sinister and spectacular.

Nadra Enzi aka Cap Black uses his admittedly over-active imagination to explore.human nature and how fiction dramatizes it. He lives in New Orleans.