Themes of lost love or unfulfilled dreams often make for interesting sad stories. When we see a character lose someone they truly love, or their dreams shattered, it tugs at our heartstrings. And how they deal with that loss, whether they become bitter or find a new purpose, is what makes the story captivating.
Complex characters. If a character in a sad story has many layers, like a person who seems cold but is actually deeply hurt inside, it makes the story more engaging. Also, the setting can play a role. A sad story set in a beautiful but desolate place, like an abandoned mansion, adds an extra dimension to the sadness.
Surprise endings can make a sad story interesting. For example, when you think a character is going to be saved but then they aren't. It catches the reader off - guard.
The contrast. When there is a sudden shift from a happy or normal situation to something going wrong in a silly way. For example, a person all dressed up for a party, but then slips on a banana peel right at the entrance of the party hall. The embarrassment and sadness of ruining the entrance is contrasted with the hilarity of the fall.
The contrast. When something unexpected and humorous happens in a sad situation or vice versa, it catches our attention. For example, in a story where a person loses their job (sad) but then finds a new and better opportunity in the most comical way, like accidentally bumping into the boss of a new company at a park and getting hired on the spot.
Loss is a big element. For example, if a person loses a dear friend or family member close to Halloween. It could be like a character in a story who was supposed to go trick - or - treating with their best friend but then the friend moves away suddenly.
The sense of loneliness also plays a big part. Just as the old man who died alone in his village. It makes us empathize with their isolation at the end of their lives. And it makes us think about how we should treat the elderly or those in need.
Loss is a key element. For example, losing a loved one, like in the story of the young man who lost his mother. Another is loneliness, such as the little dog left alone on the road. It makes the reader feel pity.
Loss is a big element. For example, losing a loved one like a parent or a partner. Another is unfulfilled dreams. Just like the person who always wanted to be an artist but never had the chance. Also, loneliness can make a life story sad. When someone has no friends or family to rely on, like an old person living alone with no one to talk to.
One element that makes a sad coronavirus story is the disruption of plans. Couples who had planned their weddings had to postpone them indefinitely. Students who were looking forward to graduation ceremonies couldn't have them. Also, the unequal impact of the virus on the poor. They often had less access to healthcare and resources, and many suffered more severely, which is a very sad aspect.
One element is the innocence of the character. For example, a baby animal being lost. Their cute appearance combined with their helplessness makes the story sad. Another is the unfulfilled hope. Like a child waiting for a parent who will never return, their cute anticipation turns into deep sadness. Also, a lost friendship can be part of it. Two cute little characters who were friends but are now separated due to some circumstances.
Death of a loved one. When a main character loses someone close, like a parent or a best friend, it often makes the story sad. For example, in 'The Fault in Our Stars', Hazel has to face the inevitable death of Augustus, which is heart - breaking.
The atmosphere is crucial. Dark, desolate settings like old mansions or abandoned asylums create a sense of dread. Another element is the element of the unknown. If a character in a story hears strange noises but can't figure out where they are coming from, it builds suspense. For instance, in the haunted house story, the couple heard whispers but couldn't tell who or what was making them.