One common element is loss. For example, the loss of a loved one or a pet, like in the story of the boy and his dog. Another is the unknown. The strange figure in the fog or the half - human creature in the forest creates fear because we don't know what they are. And a sense of isolation is also present. The characters are often alone, like the man on the desolate road or the girl in the old house, which makes their situations seem more dire and the sadness and scariness more intense.
Common elements include a sense of impending doom. In short sad and scary stories, characters usually feel that something bad is about to happen. Darkness, either literal or metaphorical, is also common. The old, creaky house filled with strange noises was a place of darkness. Also, there is often a disruption of the normal. The appearance of the dead mother on the road or the strange transformation of the dog are things that go against the normal order of things, creating both sadness and fear.
One common element is loss. For example, the loss of a loved one, like in the story of the old man who was haunted by memories of his dead family. Another is isolation, such as the little girl being alone in the forest. And often there are elements of the unknown, like the strange figure the girl saw. These elements combined create a feeling of both sadness and fear.
Guilt is also a big theme. Characters often feel guilty for their actions or inactions, and this guilt haunts them, as seen in stories where someone has caused harm, whether on purpose or by accident. For instance, in 'The Monkey's Paw', the parents' guilt over their son's death due to their wish is palpable.
One common element is the unknown. For example, in many stories like 'The Yellow Wallpaper', the main character is in a situation where she doesn't understand what's really going on, and that mystery creates fear. Another element is isolation. In 'The Lighthouse', the two lighthouse keepers are isolated from the rest of the world, which heightens the sense of dread when strange things start to happen. Also, death is often involved, whether it's an impending death like in 'The Masque of the Red Death' or a past death that haunts the present, as in 'The Fall of the House of Usher'.
Guilt is a common element. Many women feel like they have done something wrong, whether it was a choice made due to circumstances or not. For example, a woman who aborted because of career pressure may later feel guilty for sacrificing the potential life for her job.
One common element is the setting. Often it's a spooky place like an old house, a dark forest, or an abandoned building. These places create an immediate sense of unease. Another element is the presence of a menacing figure, such as a monster, a ghost, or a deranged human. For example, in many stories, there's a killer who stalks the main characters. Also, there's usually a sense of isolation. The characters are cut off from help, which makes their situation more terrifying.
One common element is the sense of isolation. For example, like the girl alone at home in the first story. Another is the unknown or the mysterious. The figure in the cemetery was very mysterious. And often there is a sense of something being not right in a familiar place, like the attic in the third story.
Dark settings are common. For example, an old, creaky house or a desolate forest. These create an immediate sense of unease. Another element is the unknown. Like in stories where there are strange noises but no clear source. It plays on our fear of the unexpected.
One common element is the unknown. In many bedtime scary short stories, there are things that the characters can't explain, like strange noises or movements. For example, in the story of the haunted doll, the girl doesn't know why the doll is giggling or moving. Another element is the setting. Dark and isolated places such as forests, old houses or attics are often used. These places create a sense of unease and fear. Darkness is also a big part. When it's dark, our imagination runs wild, and things seem scarier. Just like in the story of the traveler in the forest, the darkness made the glowing eyes even more terrifying.
Ghosts are a common element. Many Japanese short scary stories feature spirits of the dead, like the yurei, which are often depicted as pale figures in white clothing. Another common element is the use of old, spooky settings such as abandoned houses, temples, or wells. These places are believed to be haunted in Japanese folklore.
One common element is the presence of strange noises. Like in many stories, guests hear unexplained scratching, banging or moaning sounds during the night. Another element is the appearance of apparitions. Figures in white or shadowy forms are often seen in the hallways or rooms. Also, old and creepy - looking objects in the hotel rooms, such as antique furniture or old portraits, can add to the scariness.