The characters themselves can contribute to the horror. If there are characters with dark secrets or abnormal behaviors. They might act in ways that are unpredictable and disturbing. Maybe a character has a hidden past that involves violence or madness, and as the story unfolds, their true nature is gradually revealed, creating a feeling of horror.
The use of atmosphere. Gothic novels are known for their thick atmosphere. In 'The World My Wilderness', it could be created by descriptions of the weather, like a constant, gloomy rain or a thick fog. Also, the use of sound, such as howling winds or strange noises in the night, all work together to build a sense of horror.
She uses setting. Old, dilapidated houses and desolate landscapes are common in her works. These settings immediately give a feeling of unease. For instance, in 'The Haunting of Hill House', the house itself is like a character, full of secrets and mystery.
Horror gothic novels create fear through various means. The atmosphere is crucial. They build an atmosphere of gloom and doom, with elements like mist, howling winds, and creaking doors. The use of foreshadowing also plays a big role. In 'Dracula', there are many hints about the vampire's arrival and his evil deeds before he actually shows up. The characters' psychological states are another factor. For instance, the madness that overcomes Dr. Jekyll as he transforms into Mr. Hyde is terrifying. And the way these novels often isolate their characters, whether in a remote castle or on a lonely island, makes the reader feel their vulnerability and thus heightens the sense of fear.
Horror gothic stories create fear through their characters too. Creepy characters such as vampires, monsters, and deranged madmen are common. In 'Frankenstein', the monster is a terrifying creation that is both pitiable and frightening. The way these characters interact with the innocent protagonists makes the readers or viewers feel afraid. Also, the use of the supernatural elements, like ghosts and curses, adds to the sense of fear as they go against the laws of nature that we are used to.
Wilderness horror novels create fear through isolation. When characters are alone in the vast wilderness, far from help, it amps up the tension. For example, in 'The Ruins', the characters are trapped in the jungle with no easy way out. Also, the unknown elements in the wilderness, like strange noises or unseen creatures, play a big role. In 'Annihilation', the Area X is full of things that are not clearly defined, making the reader feel uneasy.
Ecological horror novels create horror in multiple ways. They might use the concept of overgrowth or mutation of natural elements. In novels where insects or plants become overly aggressive or abnormal, it taps into our primal fear of being overpowered by nature. Also, the isolation within an ecological setting can be a factor. For instance, in a story set in a remote forest or island, the characters are cut off from help. And the slow realization that the environment is not what it seems, like in a story where a seemingly normal lake has a deadly secret, gradually builds the horror.
Well, compared to some other Gothic novels, 'The World My Wilderness' might have a more unique setting. While many Gothic novels are set in old castles, this one could be set in a different kind of desolate environment.
Through atmosphere. They often use dark and dreary settings, like old mansions or abandoned hospitals. The music and sound effects also play a big role. Creaky doors, strange whispers all add to the horror.
The use of music and sound effects is crucial. The creaking of doors, the howling of wind in the old houses, and the eerie music that plays during tense scenes all heighten the sense of horror. It makes the viewers feel like they are in the middle of the horror story themselves. Also, the plot twists and the unexpected turns in the storylines keep the audience on edge, not knowing what will come next.
It uses a lot of disturbing visuals. Like showing grotesque creatures or extremely bloody scenes. This directly shocks the viewers and makes them feel uneasy.
The use of music and sound effects is crucial. The eerie music that plays at just the right moments, like when something is about to jump out, really amps up the horror. And the strange noises in the background, like creaking floors or howling winds, also contribute a lot.