Often, there are elements of isolation. You might be alone in a big, empty place like a deserted city or a vast empty field. Unsettling sounds are also common, like shrill screams or low, menacing growls. And there's frequently a change in the normal state of things. For instance, water that burns instead of quenches thirst or a sky that is blood - red instead of blue. This deviation from the norm creates a sense of unease and horror in the short nightmare story.
Darkness is a common element. It creates an atmosphere of fear and the unknown, like in a nightmare where you are lost in a pitch - black forest. Another is the presence of a menacing figure, such as a monster or a ghostly apparition that threatens the dreamer. Also, a sense of helplessness is often there, as if you can't escape no matter what you do.
In many 'the nightmare scary story' type of tales, there is a build - up of suspense. It starts with something a bit off, like a strange feeling when entering a new place. Then, as the story progresses, more and more creepy things happen. There could be objects moving on their own, or shadows that seem to have a life of their own. This slow build - up keeps the reader or listener on the edge of their seat, wondering what will happen next. It's all about creating a feeling of unease and dread.
Strange and strict teachers are common. For example, teachers who turn into monsters or are extremely unfair. Another element is getting lost in the school, like in a never - ending hallway. Also, things like haunted classrooms or spooky basements can be part of it.
One common element is a sense of isolation. The player is often alone in a strange and dangerous environment, like being in an abandoned asylum. Another is the presence of supernatural threats such as ghosts or demons. For example, in many nightmare game stories, there are hauntings where objects move on their own and cold spots are felt. Also, a lack of clear direction or an ever - changing environment can be common, making the player feel lost and constantly on edge.
One common element is financial trouble. Like a family losing their jobs and struggling to pay bills, which can cause a lot of stress and arguments. Another is family illness, especially a long - term or terminal one that drains the family both emotionally and financially.
Dark settings are common, like spooky forests or old houses. Also, strange or menacing figures often appear, such as the cloaked figure or the shadowy creatures. Another element is a sense of being trapped or lost, like in the maze - like old house or on the small boat in the middle of the ocean.
One common element is the unexpected. For example, when normal things suddenly behave in very strange ways, like your pet dog turning into a flying unicorn in a nightmare. It's so out of the ordinary that it becomes funny.
It might include creepy settings, scary characters, and unexpected plot twists.
One common element is the use of dark and isolated settings like old houses, forests at night, or abandoned places. These places create an atmosphere of unease and fear. Another is the presence of the unknown, such as shadowy figures or strange noises that can't be easily explained. Also, there is often a sense of being trapped, whether it's physically in a haunted location or mentally by a terrifying situation.
A frequent element is also the fear of public speaking in class. Standing in front of the whole class, feeling everyone's eyes on you, and your mind going blank. And sometimes, in nightmare school stories, there are problems with the school facilities, like the toilets being really dirty or the cafeteria food being inedible.