In English, macabre was originally used in reference to this "dance of death" but then gradually broadened in use to describe anything grim or horrific. Today macabre functions as a synonym of gruesome or repulsive, always with a connection to the physical aspects of death and suffering.

Macabre does not necessarily mean violence, blood, brutality, or gore. I will look at each entry and determine if it's too far over the line. Some leniency is given for the Halloween Contests. Example, The Raven by Edgar Allan Poe is the macabre, yet would not violate the TOS in written or illustrated form.

Thank you for your concerns, I look forward to seeing your entries.

---

Wolfenshire, Moderator/Community Leader