Because Houdini's death occurred on Halloween, many conspiracy theories about ghosts and supernatural forces began to circulate. Some psychic mediums claimed to have predicted Houdini's death.

A petroglyph is an engraving or image created on rock; specifically, it is carved into the surface of a rock face, revealing a lighter layer beneath the natural patina, creating the image.

Mulder and Scully's supervisor on the TV show The X-Files was Walter Skinner, an Assistant Director in the FBI. Skinner was in charge of the X-Files unit, which investigated paranormal activity and unexplained cases. He was portrayed by actor Mitch Pileggi.

In the novel, Chris rigs the prom election to favor Carrie and Tommy, and then dumps pig blood on their heads as they are crowned prom queen and king. The blood symbolizes horror, shame, and humiliation, and is connected to the Gothic.