One common element is the idea of an omen. For example, in many superstition short stories, seeing a particular animal like a raven or an owl is often seen as an omen of bad things to come. Another element is the consequence. There is always a negative consequence that follows the act that goes against the superstition, like losing something valuable or getting sick.
Well, the setting can be a common element. Often, superstition short stories are set in small, traditional communities where superstitions are deeply ingrained. Also, there's the character's reaction. The characters usually either completely believe in the superstition and are terrified, or they are skeptical at first but then start to question their disbelief when something bad happens. For instance, in a story about a haunted house superstition, the character might initially laugh it off but after strange noises start, they get scared. And there's often a sense of mystery in these stories. Something unexplained that makes the superstition seem more real.
One common element is an action or object that is believed to bring either good or bad luck, like a black cat or a broken mirror in superstition stories. Another is the reaction of the characters. They might be scared or dismissive of the superstition at first. For example, in stories where whistling at night is bad, the character who whistles could be either brave or foolish depending on how they handle the situation after. Also, there is often some sort of resolution. It could be that the character defies the superstition and nothing bad happens, or they follow the superstition - based advice and avoid a supposed disaster.
One common superstition ghost story is the story of Bloody Mary. Legend has it that if you stand in a dark bathroom, light some candles, and say 'Bloody Mary' three times into the mirror, a ghostly figure will appear. Another is the headless horseman story often associated with Sleepy Hollow. It's said that a headless horseman rides through the town at night, which is a very spooky superstition ghost story. And in some Asian cultures, there are stories about female ghosts in white dresses who are often the spirits of wronged women, haunting places like old wells or abandoned houses.
One such story is about a haunted mirror. It's said that if you look into it at midnight on a full moon, you'll see a ghostly figure of your future.
Well, a typical short diaper story might involve the type of diaper. For example, if it's a special or new kind of diaper, that can be a part of the story. Also, the setting is common, like at home, in a store, or during a trip. And of course, the baby's behavior related to the diaper, whether it's staying dry or having an accident.
One common element is a brave hero or heroine. They are often the ones who drive the story forward by facing challenges. Another is the unknown or dangerous setting, like a haunted house or a deep cave. Danger is also a key element. It could be in the form of a villain or a natural hazard. For example, in many adventure short stories, there's a storm at sea or a band of thieves.
One common element is the use of dark and isolated settings, like a haunted forest or a desolate cemetery. Another is the presence of supernatural beings such as vampires or witches. And the feeling of being watched or followed is also very typical.
One common element is the bright light. In most alien abduction short stories, a bright, often blinding light appears before the abduction. This light is usually associated with the alien spacecraft. Another element is the strange appearance of the aliens. They are often described as having large heads, big eyes, and sometimes green or gray skin. Also, the feeling of helplessness is common. The humans in these stories are usually unable to resist the abduction and are at the mercy of the aliens.
The interaction between the dentist and the assistant can also be a great source of humor. If the assistant mishears an instruction and does something completely different, like handing the wrong tool, and the dentist reacts with a witty comment. It often makes for a very funny story.
Darkness is a common element. Devils often lurk in the dark, like in an old, unlit cellar or a forest at night. Another is the sense of isolation. When a character is alone, it makes the appearance of the devil more terrifying. For example, a person alone in an old house.
Isolation is a common element. Like in a story where a family is snowed - in during Christmas at a remote house, cut off from the outside world. Then strange things start to happen. Another element is the perversion of Christmas symbols. For example, a possessed Christmas tree or an evil Santa Claus.