The characters in these short stories tend to be in some sort of vulnerable situation. Maybe they are alone, or they have a dark past that is coming back to haunt them. And the plot usually has unexpected twists and turns that shock the reader.
Typically, they are likely to have elements of the unknown. The fear of the unknown is a common characteristic in horror. For example, an unexplained sound or a shadow that moves on its own.
Often, they create a sense of unease and fear quickly. For example, they might start with a strange or disturbing setting like a haunted house or a desolate graveyard.
They are often filled with suspense. The authors build up tension to keep readers on the edge of their seats.
One characteristic is their ability to create a sense of immediate dread. Since they are short, they often jump right into the spooky action. For example, they might start with a strange noise or an unexplained sighting. Another aspect is their use of modern settings and fears. They could involve things like technology going wrong, such as a smart device acting in a menacing way. Also, contemporary horror short stories often have complex and relatable characters. The characters' reactions to the horror feel more real because they are dealing with modern - day problems.
They are concise. Usually, they quickly establish a spooky or menacing situation. For example, in a short horror story, the horror might start within the first few sentences, like a strange noise in an empty house right at the start.
A master of short stories can tell a complete and engaging story in a very limited space. They know how to create vivid characters quickly. For instance, in just a few paragraphs, they can make you understand a character's personality, desires, and flaws.
Many 1948 horror short stories often had a sense of mystery. They were set in rather ordinary settings which made the horror more relatable. For instance, like 'The Lottery', it was set in a small town that seemed normal at first glance.
They typically had complex characters. The protagonists were often ordinary people thrust into extraordinary and horrifying situations. The horror was not just about the supernatural elements but also about the psychological turmoil within the characters. Also, the language used was elaborate and detailed, adding to the overall atmosphere of dread.
They often have a strong sense of atmosphere. The setting is described in a way that makes you feel like you're right there in the spooky place. For example, a haunted house story might vividly describe the creaking floors and cold drafts.
Often, they can be quite diverse in terms of themes. Some might focus on psychological horror, like exploring the dark corners of the human mind. Others could be more about supernatural elements such as ghosts or demons.