Sound can also play a huge role. If the human in the dog suit makes strange noises, like a distorted growl or a howl that has an almost human quality to it, it can heighten the sense of fear. It's a sensory overload that makes the horror more palpable. For instance, in a dark alley, hearing those strange noises getting closer would be terrifying as you try to figure out what this strange hybrid creature is going to do.
It can create fear through the grotesque physical transformation. Just seeing a body part, like the belly, expanding in an unnatural way is disturbing.
They also use sound in a very effective way. A creaking door in an empty hallway, or a faint whisper in the wind can be very scary. These sounds are often left unexplained, which makes the mind race with possibilities. And when combined with a slow - paced narrative, the fear builds gradually as the reader anticipates what might happen next.
They use settings. The playground, which is usually a place of joy and play in normal life, is made into a desolate and spooky place in these novels. For example, overgrown grass, rusted equipment, and a general air of decay can be very unnerving.
They can use atmosphere. For example, in 'The Woman in Black', the desolate and fog - covered marshland sets a spooky mood right away. Also, the use of the unknown. 'House of Leaves' has a very disorienting layout and strange happenings that keep you in the dark, making you fear what might be next.
Horror choice stories create fear by making the reader or player feel responsible for the outcome. When you're faced with a choice, say whether to accept a strange drink from a mysterious figure in a horror - filled forest or decline it, you become part of the story. And if you make the wrong choice and something horrible happens, like turning into a monster yourself, you can't blame anyone but yourself. This self - imposed responsibility, combined with the often - gruesome and unexpected consequences of choices, is what makes these stories so effective at creating fear. Also, the way these stories build tension before presenting a choice, with things like strange noises or creepy shadows, adds to the overall sense of dread.
Shooting horror stories create fear through the power dynamics they present. The shooter usually has the upper hand, with the ability to harm or kill from a distance. The victims are often defenseless or ill - equipped to fight back. This imbalance of power makes the audience root for the victims and fear for their safety. Additionally, the visual or mental image of a gun pointed at someone is inherently terrifying, as it represents a direct threat to life.
They create fear through their appearance. For example, a character with a disfigured face or blood - soaked clothes can be really scary. Their actions also matter. If a character moves in a jerky, unnatural way, it gives off a spooky vibe. Another way is through their voices. A hoarse, whispering voice can send shivers down your spine.
IT horror novels often create fear by using the unknown aspects of technology. For example, in 'It', the entity Pennywise can manipulate technology in the town, like making the sewers seem even more menacing, which scares readers as it's something that could potentially happen in real life.
It can create fear through the unknown. For example, when a parent checks on a child and sees something unusual like a strange mark on the child's skin that wasn't there before. It makes the reader wonder what could have caused it.
One way common horror setting stories create fear is through the power of suggestion. They don't always show the full horror right away. Instead, they give hints and glimpses, like a shadow moving out of the corner of your eye. The setting also plays a huge role. A desolate and fog - covered landscape makes one feel alone and vulnerable. And the characters' reactions to the horror also heighten the sense of fear. If the characters are terrified, it makes the audience more likely to be scared as well.