Well, there are several factors that can contribute to the scariness of the 'world's most scary story'. Firstly, the atmosphere created in the story. If it's set in a desolate place like an old, abandoned house or a dark forest, it immediately gives off a spooky vibe. Secondly, the characters in the story. If they are in a hopeless situation, being chased by some unseen entity, it makes the readers feel their fear. And finally, the element of the supernatural. Whether it's demons, vampires or some other unearthly creatures, they are often the source of great fear as they represent the unknown and the unknowable.
The unknown elements often make it terrifying. In many scary stories, there are things that go beyond our understanding of the normal world, like ghosts or unexplainable phenomena. They play on our fears of the dark and the unexpected.
The 'world's most scary story' might be so scary because it taps into our deepest psychological fears. It could be about the loss of control, for example. When the characters in the story are at the mercy of some malevolent force and can't do anything to stop it, it makes the readers feel vulnerable too. Also, the use of suspense, where the writer slowly builds up the tension until it reaches a crescendo, is a very effective way to terrify the audience.
The element of psychological terror plays a huge role. Take 'Psycho' as a movie which has a story that can be considered in this category. The slow - building sense of unease, the way Norman Bates seems normal on the surface but has a deeply disturbed psyche, makes it so scary. It makes you question the sanity of those around you and your own safety. It's not just about jump scares but about a deep - seated fear that something is very wrong in a seemingly ordinary situation.
The unknown elements make a scary story terrifying. When there are things that the characters and the readers don't understand, like a strange noise in the dark or a figure that appears and disappears without explanation, it creates fear. For example, in a haunted house story, if there are unexplained cold spots or voices, it gives a sense of unease.
The 'world's most horror story' might be terrifying due to its ability to tap into our deepest fears. It could involve elements like the unknown, the supernatural, or extreme psychological states. For example, it might feature a malevolent spirit that haunts the characters, or a situation where the characters are trapped in a never - ending nightmare. The use of vivid and disturbing descriptions also adds to the horror.
The atmosphere. It often has dark, dimly lit environments that create a sense of unease. The sound design also plays a huge role. Creaking noises, strange whispers, and sudden loud sounds can startle you.
The element of surprise plays a big role. In a lot of the top 100 most scary stories, there are sudden twists. Like in a story where a character thinks they are safe, but then something unexpected and terrifying happens. Also, the fear of death and the supernatural is often a key factor. Whether it's vampires that represent a perversion of life or ghosts that seem to be from beyond the grave, they all tap into our primal fears.
Their lack of remorse. Villains like Hannibal Lecter don't feel guilty about their actions. They can do the most atrocious things and not bat an eye. It's this cold - blooded nature that scares us.
The ability to create a sense of dread in a short space. Scary short stories often use vivid descriptions and quick pacing. For instance, in 'The Call of Cthulhu', Lovecraft uses a few well - chosen words to describe the otherworldly and terrifying Cthulhu, making the reader feel a deep sense of horror in just a short read.
The element of the unknown. In the most scary true stories, like the Enfield Poltergeist case, things happen that can't be easily explained. Objects move on their own, voices are heard, and it's all in a real - life setting. That's what makes it so scary.
The contrast. We are used to seeing Elmo as a friendly and cute character from Sesame Street. When we put him in a scary situation, like a haunted place or being chased by an unknown entity, it creates a sense of unease because it goes against our normal perception of him.
Maybe it's the use of vivid and gory details. For example, if it describes some grotesque monsters with sharp teeth and blood - red eyes. That kind of visual image can easily send shivers down one's spine.