The stories in 'year's best horror stories' often create horror through atmosphere. For instance, in 'The Fog - Bound Forest' story, the thick fog that surrounds the forest gives a sense of isolation and mystery. The characters can't see clearly what's around them, and this makes the readers feel on edge. Also, some stories play on our fears of the supernatural. 'The Ghostly Bride' makes use of the fear of vengeful spirits. The bride's apparition is described in a way that sends chills down the reader's spine.
Many use suspense. They slowly reveal details, like in 'The Dark Staircase'. It starts with just a strange noise on the stairs, and as the story unfolds, more and more terrifying things are discovered.
They often use the element of the unknown. For instance, in a story where a character hears strange whispers but can't figure out where they're coming from.
The horror could be created by a sense of the unknown. The steps might lead to places or situations that the characters, and the readers, have no idea about. It's like walking into a dark room not knowing what's inside. Also, the characters might lose control as they follow the steps, and that loss of control is a big part of what makes it scary.
It also uses the element of surprise. Characters might be going about their normal day when suddenly something completely unexpected and terrifying happens. This shock factor is a big part of the horror in McSweeney's Horror Stories. Additionally, the exploration of dark human emotions and the consequences of immoral actions can be quite horrifying as it makes the reader reflect on the darker aspects of human nature.
The stories in '100 best horror stories' create fear in multiple ways. Firstly, by playing on our deepest fears, such as the fear of death or the fear of the dark. 'The Woman in Black' does this well by having a malevolent spirit associated with death. Secondly, the use of foreshadowing is common. In 'Rosemary's Baby', there are small hints throughout the story that something is wrong, building up the tension until the big reveal. Also, the element of the uncanny, like in 'Coraline', where things seem familiar but are actually very wrong, makes the reader feel uncomfortable and scared.
Sixpence Horror Stories also create horror through their settings. Dark forests, abandoned asylums, and old cemeteries are common settings that immediately give off a spooky vibe. The detailed descriptions of these places, like the overgrown weeds in the cemetery or the creaking floors in the asylum, enhance the sense of horror.
The use of music and sound effects is crucial. The creaking of doors, the howling of wind in the old houses, and the eerie music that plays during tense scenes all heighten the sense of horror. It makes the viewers feel like they are in the middle of the horror story themselves. Also, the plot twists and the unexpected turns in the storylines keep the audience on edge, not knowing what will come next.
The use of music and sound effects is crucial. The eerie music that plays at just the right moments, like when something is about to jump out, really amps up the horror. And the strange noises in the background, like creaking floors or howling winds, also contribute a lot.
By using simple yet powerful words. For example, 'Lonely Grave' immediately makes you think of something sad and spooky. The combination of words triggers our fears and imagination.
The 'Midwich Horror Stories' create horror through the use of the unknown. For example, if there are strange creatures or events that the characters can't explain, it immediately makes the readers feel uneasy.
They use the unique shape of the spiral. The spiral is an unusual and often unsettling shape that can make people feel uneasy. When it's constantly presented in a horror story, it creates a sense of dread.