A good description ghost story often has a spooky setting. For example, an old, dilapidated house with creaky floorboards and peeling wallpaper. The presence of strange noises like whispers, moans or unexplained creaking is also important. And, of course, the ghost itself. It could be a pale figure, with glowing eyes or a transparent form that moves in an unnatural way.
Well, in a great description ghost story, the description of the ghost is crucial. It should be vivid enough to give the reader or listener a chill. It could be described as having long, flowing hair that seems to move on its own, or a face that is half - hidden in shadow. The location also matters a lot. A place that is isolated and has a history of strange happenings, like an abandoned asylum or an old mine. And the characters in the story should react realistically to the supernatural events, with fear, curiosity or disbelief.
The setting is important when describing a ghost. If it's in an abandoned castle, the ghost could be part of the decaying scenery, with cobwebs on its form. Its backstory also matters. A ghost that died a tragic death will have a different feel than one with an unknown origin. For instance, a ghost of a drowned sailor might be dripping wet all the time, with seaweed tangled in its hair, and a look of despair on its face.
First of all, the character of the ghost matters a great deal. If the ghost has a unique personality, like being overly friendly or having a strange hobby, it can make the story funny. For example, a ghost who loves collecting stamps and shows off its stamp collection to the living. Secondly, the interactions between the ghost and the human characters are crucial. If the humans are not afraid and instead react in a comical way, like trying to teach the ghost how to dance, it adds humor. Finally, a touch of absurdity in the plot can make a great funny good ghost story. Such as a ghost that turns into a rainbow when it gets too excited.
A good ghost story often has a creepy setting, like an old abandoned house or a foggy cemetery. Also, a mysterious backstory for the ghost and a sense of building tension are essential.
For a ghost story to be good, it has to have a sense of dread and uncertainty. The ghost itself should be both terrifying and somewhat enigmatic. Plus, a solid backstory that ties everything together is essential.
A good scary Christmas ghost story often has a spooky setting like an old, deserted house or a cold, dark church during Christmas time. The presence of a menacing ghost with a tragic backstory also adds to the scariness. For example, a ghost who was wronged during Christmas in the past.
Well, a good ghost story for a short story often has a relatable protagonist. In 'The Yellow Wallpaper', the woman's struggle with her mental state makes her relatable. Creepy sounds or noises are also important. In 'Oh, Whistle, and I'll Come to You, My Lad', the whistling sound that heralds the ghost's arrival adds to the scariness. And an ambiguous ending can leave the reader with a sense of unease, as in 'The Open Window' where we're not entirely sure what really happened.
The unknown is a key element. When the reader or listener doesn't know what the ghost is going to do next, it creates fear. For example, if a ghost is just described as a shadowy figure lurking in the corner, the lack of clear details makes it scarier.
A popular ghost story usually has relatable characters. When the characters are normal people like us, it becomes easier for the audience to imagine themselves in that situation. Also, the backstory of the ghost is crucial. If there's a tragic past that led to the ghost's existence, it adds depth to the story. For example, a ghost who was wronged in life and is now seeking justice. This makes the story more engaging and gives it a reason for being.
One element is the setting. Dark and isolated places like old houses, cemeteries, or abandoned asylums create a spooky atmosphere. Another is the appearance of the ghost. A figure in white, with long hair covering its face or having no feet and floating can be really creepy. Sound also plays a big part. Strange whispers, moans, or the sound of chains rattling add to the scariness.
One element is a ghost with an unexpected hobby or behavior. Like a ghost that loves to dance disco instead of being spooky. Another is when the people in the story react in a comical way to the ghost's presence. For example, if they mistake the ghost for a person in a costume and start giving it fashion advice.