It builds tension through the use of suspense. By not revealing too much about the ghost at once, it keeps the reader or viewer in a state of anticipation. For example, there might be just a glimpse of a shadow or a strange sound at first.
Through its pacing. 'Dear Esther' has a slow and deliberate pacing that builds tension gradually. As you move through the environment, not knowing what to expect, the tension mounts.
The author builds tension through the characters' conflicting emotions. For example, one character may be on the verge of confessing their love while the other is pulling away. This creates an emotional tug - of - war that keeps the reader on edge.
The turning horror story' builds tension through the way it describes things. The detailed descriptions of spooky settings, like a dimly lit corridor with strange shadows, make the reader feel uneasy. And the characters' reactions to the strange events also add to the tension. If a character is visibly terrified by something as simple as a creaking floorboard, it makes the reader anticipate that something truly horrible is about to occur.
The story could build tension by creating a sense of helplessness. In the diary, if the girl is in a situation where she has no control, like being trapped in a haunted place. Also, the pacing matters. If it slowly unfolds events, like she starts to notice a strange smell in the house one day, and then over the next few days, other strange things occur, it builds tension. And the use of foreshadowing, like she mentions a strange dream before the real horror starts, can also build tension.
Through its use of sound. The spooky music and sudden noises really build up the tension.
Building tension is all about ratcheting up the suspense. It could be by having characters face difficult choices with high consequences, or by introducing elements of mystery that haven't been solved yet. It keeps the readers hooked and eager to find out what happens next.
You can start by creating a sense of uncertainty. Make readers wonder what's going to happen next. Also, build up to important events slowly to increase anticipation.
One way is to use slow pacing and build up suspense gradually. Let the reader or viewer wonder what's coming next.
You can also use the power of the unknown. Don't reveal too much too soon. Just give hints about what might be out there. For instance, the character hears a growl, but they don't know what kind of creature it could be. Is it a wild animal? Or something more sinister? Also, create a sense of isolation for the character. If they're alone in a big, empty place, it adds to their vulnerability and the tension of the situation. And don't forget to use short, choppy sentences when the action starts to pick up to increase the sense of urgency.
Tension can be built by introducing unexpected twists and turns. Maybe a trusted ally betrays the protagonist or a seemingly easy solution turns out to be a trap. Additionally, ratcheting up the stakes for the characters makes the story more tense.