Long scary horror stories often have a slow - building atmosphere. They start by introducing characters and a setting that seems normal at first, but then gradually introduce elements of the unknown and the terrifying. For example, in 'The Haunting of Hill House', the old mansion is initially presented as just an old building, but as the story progresses, the strange noises and apparitions start to appear.
Long horror stories can also play with different sub - genres like psychological horror, supernatural horror, or body horror. They might mix elements of mystery and horror. Take 'The Silence of the Lambs' for example. It has elements of psychological horror as we get into the mind of the serial killer, as well as the horror of the hunt for the killer. It also has a touch of the supernatural in the way Hannibal Lecter seems to have an almost otherworldly knowledge of the human mind.
One characteristic is the slow build - up of suspense. In a long story, there's more time to gradually increase the feeling of unease. For example, in 'The Haunting of Hill House', the author slowly reveals the strange happenings in the house, making the readers' anticipation and fear grow over time.
Complex characters are also common. In long scary stories, the characters usually have their own flaws and backstories that make them more vulnerable or relatable. For example, in 'Rosemary's Baby', Rosemary's naivete and her desire for a child play into the horror that unfolds around her.
They can build a more intense atmosphere. For example, in a long horror story, the author can gradually increase the sense of dread over many pages, like slowly turning up the volume on a spooky soundtrack. The long form allows for a more detailed description of the spooky settings, whether it's a haunted house or a desolate forest.
Long horror stories often have complex plots. They build up the tension gradually over time. For example, in 'The Shining', the sense of isolation and the strange things that start to happen slowly increase the fear factor. They also tend to have well - developed characters so that readers can really feel for them when they're in terrifying situations.
A sense of the unknown is very common. Long demonic scary stories usually take place in dark, isolated settings like old castles or abandoned asylums. The reader doesn't know what lurks in the shadows, which adds to the fear. They also tend to build tension slowly. The author might start with small, strange occurrences that gradually escalate into full - blown demonic chaos.
A key characteristic is the use of atmosphere. Long ghost stories can really develop a thick, spooky atmosphere. Through descriptions of the weather, like a constant fog or a howling wind, and the sounds in the environment, such as creaking floorboards or distant moans. In 'Dracula', the Transylvanian setting with its dark castles and wild landscapes sets a very ominous mood. Also, long stories can have multiple plot twists. Just when the reader thinks they understand the nature of the ghost or the mystery, something new and unexpected is revealed, like in 'Ghost Story' by Peter Straub, which keeps the readers on the edge of their seats throughout the long narrative.
They often have a quick build - up of tension. Since they are short, they can't waste time. So they start creating an uneasy feeling almost immediately. For instance, a story might start with a character in a dark and isolated place right away. There's also the use of sudden twists. A story might seem to be going one way, and then suddenly, there's a completely unexpected and terrifying turn of events.
One characteristic is that they often have a focus on mystery rather than pure horror. For example, in 'The Legend of Sleepy Hollow', the mystery of the Headless Horseman and whether he's real or just a superstition drives the story more than the actual scares. Another characteristic is the presence of some humor. In 'The Canterville Ghost', the ghost's attempts to be menacing are constantly thwarted by the family's nonchalant attitude, which adds a humorous touch. Also, not so scary horror stories might have a more positive or redemptive ending. Instead of a full - on tragic and terrifying end, like in 'The Monkey's Paw' where the family learns a valuable lesson, but it's not a completely hopeless and horror - filled conclusion.
They often have an interesting setting. For example, a spooky old house or a dark forest. This creates an immediate sense of unease.
Most scary horror short stories often have a sense of the unknown. They leave a lot to the imagination. For example, in 'The Tell - Tale Heart', the narrator's madness is not fully explained, and the reader is left to wonder what really drove him to such extremes. Another characteristic is a build - up of suspense. In 'The Monkey's Paw', the wishes are made one by one, and with each wish, the tension rises as the characters don't know what horror will befall them next.