Well - developed characters are crucial. If the reader can't connect with the characters, they won't care about the paranormal events happening to them. In a story like 'The Lottery' by Shirley Jackson, the normal - seeming characters in a strange, paranormal - tinged situation make it so impactful.
The atmosphere also matters a great deal. A best paranormal short story will create an immersive atmosphere that makes the reader feel like they are in the midst of the supernatural events. Words, descriptions, and the pacing all contribute to building this spooky and otherworldly feeling.
A great paranormal story often has strong eyewitness accounts. For example, if multiple people independently describe seeing the same apparition or strange event, it adds credibility. In the case of the Enfield Poltergeist in England, several members of the Hodgson family and even some neighbors reported seeing furniture move on its own, objects flying across the room, and a young girl seemingly possessed. The consistency of the reports made it a very compelling paranormal story.
The best short paranormal fiction often has unique and memorable characters. Take 'Carmilla' for instance. Carmilla herself is a very distinct vampire character, with her alluring yet dangerous nature. Also, these stories usually have a plot that keeps you on the edge of your seat. In 'The Monkey's Paw', the series of events that unfold after each wish is made are both unexpected and full of horror. Moreover, they can often play with the readers' fears, whether it's the fear of the supernatural, death, or the loss of sanity like in 'The Fall of the House of Usher' where the main characters seem to be losing their grip on reality.
The mystery. We don't know how the paranormal elements work. It's like in 'The Monkey's Paw'. We don't understand the full power of the paw, and that mystery draws us in.
A good paranormal ghost story should have a spooky setting. For example, an old, haunted house or a desolate cemetery. This creates an immediate sense of unease.
The best short story usually has well-developed characters. When readers can relate to or be intrigued by the characters, it makes the story more compelling. Also, a concise and clear theme helps convey the message effectively.
A great short short story often has a strong concept. For example, it can convey a deep emotion or idea in just a few pages. If it has a unique plot twist like in 'The Gift of the Magi', it can be really engaging. Also, the use of language matters. A story that uses vivid and concise language can be very effective. For instance, Hemingway's short stories are known for their sparse yet powerful prose.
The best bee short story might be the best because it has engaging characters, even if they are just bees. If it makes you care about the bee's journey, whether it's finding a new home for the hive or protecting its family from predators, that would be a great factor. Also, if the story has a beautiful description of the bee's world, like the colorful meadows and the sweet - smelling flowers they visit, it can really draw the reader in. The story could also have a strong moral, like the importance of hard work which bees are known for. All these elements combined can make a bee short story the best.
Well, for a short story to be the best, it often has a great plot. A plot that grabs your attention from the start and keeps you hooked till the end. For example, in 'The Lottery' by Shirley Jackson, the unexpected and dark plot makes it a classic.
One of the best paranormal novels is 'Twilight' by Stephenie Meyer. It combines the elements of vampires, werewolves, and a love story. The world she created is full of mystery and the characters are very engaging.
In my opinion, 'The Vampire Chronicles' by Anne Rice is a great paranormal novel. It delves deep into the complex and often tragic lives of vampires. Rice's writing is very detailed and vivid, painting a picture of a world where vampires co - exist with humans, yet are so different in their nature, desires and immortality.