One element is a distorted appearance of Santa. For example, if Santa has sharp teeth or claws instead of normal hands. Another is a menacing behavior, like Santa stalking children instead of giving them presents. Also, a spooky setting can contribute, such as Santa being in a haunted house or an abandoned toy factory.
A scary Santa story often includes unexpected twists on the traditional Santa story. Instead of bringing joy, Santa brings fear. His motives become sinister. Maybe he's collecting children for some dark purpose rather than delivering presents. The element of mystery and the unknown is also important. If we don't know why Santa has become so scary or what he's really up to, it makes the story more terrifying. Also, a sense of isolation can be used effectively. If a child is alone with this scary Santa, like in an empty house on Christmas Eve, it heightens the sense of dread.
The contrast between Santa, the symbol of joy and giving, and Krampus, the bringer of punishment. When they are in the same story, it subverts the normal Christmas narrative. For example, if Santa is unable to protect the children from Krampus' wrath, it's terrifying.
The scariest elements can be a Santa with a menacing appearance. For example, a Santa with a distorted face or red - glowing eyes is really terrifying. Also, when Santa's actions are the opposite of what we expect, like stealing instead of giving. It goes against the traditional image we have of Santa, creating a sense of unease.
One element is the setting. Dark and isolated places like an old cemetery or a haunted house can be really scary. For example, a story set in a derelict asylum where the walls are crumbling and there are strange noises coming from the empty rooms. Another element is the unknown. When there are things that the characters (and the readers) can't explain, it creates fear. Like a strange figure that disappears when you look directly at it. Also, the use of suspense. If a story builds up tension slowly, for instance, by having a character hear footsteps getting closer and closer but not knowing what's causing them, it makes the story scarier.
One element is its appearance. For example, if a dog has matted fur, bloodshot eyes, and bared teeth, it immediately looks menacing. Another is its behavior. If it growls constantly, stalks people, or chases them without any obvious reason, that's scary. Also, the context matters. If the dog is in a spooky place like an old, abandoned building or a dark forest, it adds to the scariness.
The element of surprise often makes Secret Santa stories funny. For example, when someone gets a gift that is completely unexpected, like a huge inflatable dinosaur when they least expect it. It catches them off guard and makes for a hilarious moment.
Magic is a key element in a feel - good Santa Claus story. The idea that Santa can fly around the world in one night and deliver presents to every good child is magical. It makes people believe in the impossible and feel good. Also, the transformation that occurs in the recipients of Santa's gifts. For example, a sad child becoming happy and confident after receiving a special gift from Santa Claus.
A sense of impending doom is a great element too. If the characters in the story keep getting signs that something bad is going to happen, like in a story where a family keeps finding dead birds on their doorstep before a series of strange events start to occur. This makes the readers or listeners feel on edge and scared.
A key element is the build-up of tension and suspense. When you don't know what's coming next, it keeps you on the edge of your seat.
One element is the unknown. When things are not clearly defined, like in a story where there's a strange noise in the dark but you don't know what's making it, it creates fear. Another is the sense of isolation. If the character in the story is alone in a spooky place, like an old house in the middle of nowhere, it amps up the scariness. Also, the use of the supernatural, such as ghosts or demons, can be really terrifying.
Unnatural features can make a doll scary. Such as long, sharp fingernails on the doll's hands, or a strange mark on its body. The way the doll is dressed can also contribute. A tattered, old - fashioned dress that is stained can be quite disturbing. And if the doll has a smell, like a musty or rotting smell, it makes the story even more frightening. The interaction between the doll and the characters in the story, like the doll causing harm to them, either physically or mentally, is another factor that makes a doll scary in a doll scary story.