Christopher Vogler The Writers Journey
Such sights trigger a physical reaction in the skin of the arms that resembles the
response to cold air. T i n y muscles cause the hairs on the arms to stand up, a reaction
called "horripilation," that means "bristling hair" or hair standing on end. Horror is
hair-raising. Some scientists think this may be a survival from hairier times in human
history, when having your thick pelt of hair stand up when threatened would make
you look bigger and scarier, as many animals will swell up or ruffle up their fur when
facing threats.
358
T H E W I S D O M OF THE BODY
A tip for designers of sensory experiences: A sudden blast of chilly air can
trigger a shuddering effect in audiences, especially if they are keyed up for it by some
emotional or musical manipulation. T h e chill can trigger the graveyard shudder of fear