They often play on our deepest fears. Stories might be about things like being alone in the dark, as in some ghost stories. These are fears that are common to many people. By exploring these in a short story, it gives us a chance to face those fears in a somewhat safe way, through the pages of the story.
One reason is the exploration of the human psyche. Terrifying short stories often delve into the darkest corners of the human mind, showing how people can be driven to madness or commit heinous acts. This psychological aspect makes them interesting. Another factor is the element of the unknown. Stories that involve the supernatural or inexplicable events, like in 'The Yellow Wallpaper' where the woman's hallucinations are not fully explained, create a sense of mystery and fear. Additionally, they can act as a form of catharsis, allowing us to face our own fears vicariously through the characters in the story.
The suspense. In a short story, there's not much time to waste. Writers create intense suspense that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. For example, in 'The Monkey's Paw', we keep wondering what will happen with each wish. Also, the unexpected twists. Stories like 'The Open Window' have a sudden turn that shocks the reader. It's that moment of 'I didn't see that coming' that makes them appealing.
The thrill. People like to feel a rush of adrenaline. Terrifying short stories can give that by presenting situations that are far from our normal, safe experiences. For example, in 'The Tell - Tale Heart', the narrator's descent into madness and his fear of getting caught are very thrilling.
For some, the adrenaline rush is appealing. When reading a terrifying short story, the body can react as if the danger in the story is real, releasing adrenaline. It gives a kind of 'thrill' that some people seek. Also, it allows readers to experience fear in a safe environment. They can explore the darker aspects of human nature and the unknown without actually being in danger.
The mystery in them is appealing. We don't know for sure if ghosts exist, and these stories play on that uncertainty. For example, in stories about haunted houses, the idea that there could be an unseen presence is both scary and fascinating.
One thing that makes them scary is the sense of helplessness. In 'The Monkey's Paw', the characters can't control the outcomes of their wishes. The setting also plays a role. In 'The Masque of the Red Death', the enclosed abbey that is supposed to be a safe haven but is invaded by death creates a claustrophobic and terrifying feeling. Also, the moral ambiguity in some stories, like 'The Black Cat', where the protagonist's actions are both self - destructive and immoral, adds to the scariness.
The psychological aspect. Horror stories play with our minds. They can make us question our own sanity. For example, in a story where a person starts to see things that no one else does. They begin to doubt themselves, wondering if they are going crazy or if there is really something evil lurking in the shadows. This self - doubt and the fear of losing one's mind is a big part of what makes these stories so terrifying.
The unknown elements. In these stories, often there are things that are not fully explained. Like in a story where a door in an old building keeps opening on its own. We don't know what's on the other side. It could be a monster, a ghost, or something even more sinister. This lack of knowledge creates fear.
The element of the unknown. For example, in many of the stories, there are unexplained noises or figures. We don't know what they are or what they want, and that scares us.
One reason is the use of the unknown. In many of these stories, like 'The Yellow Wallpaper', the reader is not entirely sure what is really happening, whether it's all in the woman's mind or if there's something more sinister. It plays on our fear of the unexplained.