Unwanted attention is another element. For instance, getting gifts or messages from someone you don't like or are even afraid of, like the stalker situation. It turns the day that's supposed to be about positive love into something that makes you feel threatened and scared.
One common element is the idea of a failed or tragic love from the past. For example, a ghost of a jilted lover might haunt a place on Valentine's Day. Another element could be the perversion of Valentine's Day symbols. Like the roses turning black or chocolates having a sinister meaning. Also, the setting often plays a role. Abandoned places like old mansions or desolate parks add to the horror atmosphere on this day of love.
Well, disappointment is a big one. You expect a great day, but things like forgotten gifts or a partner acting cold can turn it into horror. Then there's the idea of betrayal. Just like the story where the boyfriend comes home on Valentine's Day to say he's leaving for someone else. And unexpected disasters can also be an element. A storm ruining a Valentine's Day dinner cruise and separating a couple is an example of how an unforeseen event can make the day horrible.
Jealousy is a common one. Like in the story where an ex does something to ruin the day for the couple out of envy. Another is unexpected and creepy intrusions. For example, the strange figure at the restaurant. Also, poisoned gifts or food can be an element, as seen when the wine was poisoned in that other story.
Unfulfilled plans often play a role. For example, someone might have planned a perfect date but something unexpected like illness or a sudden change of heart from the partner ruins it. Say, a woman plans a romantic dinner but her partner forgets and goes out with friends instead. It makes Valentine's Day really sad.
Well, disappointment seems to be a big part of it. Whether it's a failed surprise like the wrong flower delivery or a ruined date because of the weather. And often, there's some sort of external factor that disrupts the couple's plans. It could be something as simple as a restaurant being overbooked or as complex as a transportation breakdown. In many horrible Valentine's Day stories, the high expectations for the day also play a role. When things don't go as planned, the disappointment is even greater because of the significance of the day.
Love and affection are common elements. Couples usually express their love through various actions like giving gifts, having special meals together. Another common element is spending time together, whether it's going for a walk, to a concert or just staying at home. Romance also plays a big part, like candle - lit dinners or sharing a dance.
One horror story is when a person planned an elaborate Valentine's Day dinner at home for their partner. They cooked all day, but when the partner came home, they announced they were leaving for someone else. It was a complete shock and ruined what was supposed to be a romantic day.
There was a couple who went on a Valentine's Day dinner date. At the restaurant, they noticed a strange figure in the corner that seemed to be staring at them intently. As the night went on, the figure got closer and closer. Eventually, they realized it was a person who had a grudge against the guy from his past and wanted to ruin their special night. The couple left in a hurry, feeling very scared.
Well, in a Valentine's Day story, one of the main elements is the expression of affection. For example, a person might write a love letter or a poem. Romance is also key. This can be shown through a surprise date or a grand gesture. Additionally, there's usually a sense of anticipation. The person planning something for their loved one is excited and the recipient is often pleasantly surprised. And of course, the day itself, Valentine's Day, is the backdrop that gives the story its special context.
Another is the wrong gift. For example, a man might give his partner something really practical like a vacuum cleaner instead of something romantic like flowers or jewelry. His partner may feel that he doesn't understand the concept of Valentine's Day at all, and it can lead to an awkward situation. The intention might have been good, like wanting to be useful, but it completely misses the mark on this romantic holiday.