One element is a specific location. For example, if a story is set in an old, spooky place like a derelict asylum or a haunted forest. Another is multiple witnesses. If several people independently claim to have seen the same ghostly apparition, it adds credibility. Also, historical context can make it seem more legit. If there was a tragic event in the past at the location where the ghost is seen, like a murder or a great loss.
Details are crucial. A legit ghost story often has vivid descriptions of the ghost's appearance, like how it looks, what it wears, and how it moves. Consistency in the story over time is also important. If the story has been told for years and the key elements remain the same, it's more likely to be legitimate. And if there are strange, unexplainable phenomena associated with the location, such as cold spots or electrical malfunctions when the ghost is sighted.
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.
A funny ghost story often has a ghost that has some modern or out - of - place characteristics. For example, a ghost who is obsessed with using a smartphone even though he's dead. Or a ghost that speaks in a really strange accent. The contrast between the spooky idea of a ghost and these comical traits makes the story funny. Also, if the setting of the story is a bit absurd, like a ghost haunting a fast - food restaurant and being more interested in the burgers than scaring customers.
The unknown. When there are things that can't be explained, like strange noises in an empty house. For example, if you hear creaking floors but no one is there. Also, a sense of being watched. It gives you the feeling that there's something there that you can't see. And apparitions, like seeing a figure out of the corner of your eye that vanishes when you look directly at it.
A big part is when the ghost is more like a friendly neighbor. Maybe it's a ghost that leaves little gifts for the living, like a ghost who leaves beautiful feathers or shiny stones on people's doorsteps. And if the reactions of the people in the story are comical, like over - reacting to the tiniest sign of the ghost but then realizing it's harmless. Also, when the ghost has a cute appearance rather than a menacing one, like a small, pudgy ghost that waddles around instead of gliding menacingly.
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.
One element is a non - scary ghost appearance. For example, a ghost that is small and round like a little ball, with big friendly eyes. Another is the ghost's behavior. If the ghost is clumsy or does things that are unexpected in a humorous way, like trying to scare someone but ends up scaring itself. Also, the interaction between the ghost and humans can be really cute and funny. If the humans don't get scared but instead befriend the ghost and they have some comical adventures together, that makes for a great cute funny ghost story.
The atmosphere also matters a great deal. In my childhood apartment experience, the dark hallway and the feeling of isolation contributed to the overall scariness of the cold hand on my shoulder.