By using the power of suggestion. Instead of showing the horror directly, these stories let the readers' imagination run wild in the darkness. For instance, just a shadow moving in the dark can be scarier than a fully revealed monster.
The lack of visibility in the darkness allows for the creation of hidden threats. The idea that there could be something lurking just out of sight, waiting to attack, is a classic horror trope in such stories. It makes the readers constantly on edge, not knowing what will emerge from the darkness next.
They use things like disturbing visuals. For example, in 'Amnesia: The Dark Descent', the dimly lit corridors and grotesque creatures you encounter create immediate fear. Sound is also crucial. Creaking floors and strange, otherworldly noises in 'Zero Escape' add to the tension. The element of the unknown is another key factor. In 'Danganronpa', not knowing who the real killer is among the group keeps you on edge all the time.
Use of sound is crucial. For example, the sound of dripping water that seems to echo in the silence can be really creepy. Also, having the protagonist hear faint footsteps but not see anyone can create a terrifying atmosphere.
One way is to combine phrases. For example, start with 'the moonless night was filled with an oppressive silence'. Then add 'and from the inky blackness, a guttural growl emerged'. The first phrase sets the scene of a dark and quiet night which is already a bit eerie. The second phrase then breaks that silence with a menacing sound, creating a more terrifying atmosphere. You can also use phrases to describe the setting in detail, like 'the dilapidated mansion with its broken windows and creaking doors'. This makes the reader imagine a spooky place and the phrases associated with it, like 'the cold drafts that whistled through the halls' can enhance the horror further.
He also played with the unknown. In his stories, there are often things that are not fully understood, like the powers of the supernatural beings. This mystery adds to the horror. He made the readers constantly wonder what would happen next. For instance, in 'The Jewel of Seven Stars', the power of the jewel is not clearly defined at first, creating a sense of unease.
Another way is by emphasizing the sounds in Darkness Stories. In a dark, empty house story, describe the creaking of the floorboards, the howling of the wind outside, and the faint scratching noises. These sounds add to the sense of unease because in the dark, we rely more on our ears, and these noises seem more menacing. Also, use words like 'pitch - black' and 'inky darkness' to set the mood. When people hear these stories, they can almost feel the darkness closing in around them, creating a truly spooky atmosphere.
Scary theatre stories can create a terrifying atmosphere through their settings. For example, a dark, old castle or a fog - filled graveyard on stage can immediately set a spooky mood. Also, the use of lighting, like dim and flickering lights, can add to the fear factor.
Skinwalker stories in 'darkness prevails' can have a big impact on local culture. They often create a sense of mystery and fear. This can influence the way people behave, for example, making them more cautious at night or in certain areas. It also becomes part of the oral tradition, passed down through families and communities.
Well, you need to focus on the unknown. When darkness prevails, it hides things. So, in your story, have something that the character can't see clearly but can sense. Maybe a cold draft that seems to be following them. You could also use the power of suggestion. Instead of showing the scary thing right away, just give hints like a strange smell or a faint glow in the distance. And don't forget to make the character's fear palpable. Let their imagination run wild in the darkness.
The sense of isolation is also prevalent. When darkness prevails, characters are often alone or cut off from help. This makes them more vulnerable to the horrors that lurk in the dark, like in a story where a person is trapped in an old, dark mansion with no way to call for assistance.
One of the scariest might be the story of the haunted mansion. It's said that at midnight, strange noises come from the attic, and shadowy figures can be seen in the hallways. People who have visited the place claim to feel a cold presence following them around.