existential horror short stories

One common theme is the search for meaning. In these stories, characters often struggle to find purpose in a chaotic or indifferent world. For example, in Kafka's works, the protagonists are constantly facing situations that seem to defy logic and normalcy, making them question their place in the universe. Another theme is isolation. Characters may be physically or emotionally cut off from others, like in 'The Outsider' by Lovecraft. This isolation intensifies the horror as they face their existential fears alone.

One great existential horror short story is 'The Yellow Wallpaper' by Charlotte Perkins Gilman. It delves into a woman's descent into madness in a confined space, exploring themes of identity and oppression. Another is 'The Masque of the Red Death' by Edgar Allan Poe. It uses the setting of a party during a plague to show the inescapability of death and the futility of trying to avoid it. Also, 'The Tell - Tale Heart' by Poe is an example. The narrator's obsession and guilt over the old man's eye lead to a terrifying psychological exploration.

One classic is 'The Call of Cthulhu' by H.P. Lovecraft. It presents an indescribable and ancient horror that exists beyond human comprehension. The very existence of Cthulhu, a monstrous being from another dimension, challenges the sanity of those who discover it. Another is Kafka's 'The Metamorphosis', where Gregor Samsa wakes up transformed into a bug. His new state makes him question his identity and his place in the world, creating an existential dread as he is isolated and dehumanized. And then there's 'The Yellow Wallpaper' by Charlotte Perkins Gilman. The protagonist's slow descent into madness as she is confined and made to confront the strange patterns on the wallpaper is a form of existential horror, as she loses her sense of self and reality.

Existential horror stories focus more on the internal struggle of the characters regarding their existence, identity, and purpose. In traditional horror, it's often about external threats like vampires or ghosts. For example, in an existential horror story like 'The Metamorphosis', Gregor Samsa's transformation into a bug makes him question his human identity. While in a traditional horror, say a slasher movie, the focus is on the killer chasing and trying to harm the victims. Existential horror is more about the psychological and philosophical dread that comes from within.

One characteristic is the exploration of the human condition. They often deal with themes like alienation, as seen in 'The Metamorphosis'. Characters feel detached from society or themselves. Another is the presence of moral and ethical dilemmas, such as in 'The Guest'. This forces the reader to think about what is right or wrong in complex situations. Also, they tend to have an atmosphere of absurdity, where normal rules of life seem to be broken or questioned, like in many works of Kafka.

One of the best is 'Persepolis' by Marjane Satrapi. It tells an existential story through the eyes of a young girl growing up during the Iranian Revolution. The graphic style adds depth to the exploration of identity, freedom, and the search for meaning in a complex and often oppressive society.

Existential horror novels at their best often deal with mortality. In 'Pet Sematary', the idea of death being perverted is a key element. They also create a sense of being lost. In 'The Yellow Wallpaper', the narrator is lost in her own mind as she is trapped in the room. Moreover, they can have a sense of the uncanny. In 'The Exorcist', the possession is an uncanny event that challenges our understanding of the world and our place in it, creating a strong sense of existential horror.

One classic is 'The Call of Cthulhu' by H.P. Lovecraft. It's filled with a sense of dread and the insignificance of humanity in the face of cosmic horrors. Another is 'House of Leaves' by Mark Z. Danielewski. Its unique format and disturbing storylines create an intense existential horror. Also, 'We Have Always Lived in the Castle' by Shirley Jackson, which delves into themes of isolation and the unknown, making the reader question the nature of reality.

Another excellent existential short story is 'A Clean, Well - Lighted Place' by Ernest Hemingway. Set in a café, it features an old man who is trying to find some comfort in the well - lighted place. The story touches on themes of loneliness, despair, and the search for meaning. The two waiters' different attitudes towards the old man also highlight the contrast between those who understand the emptiness of life and those who are still in denial.

Look for stories that deal with big philosophical questions like the meaning of life, death, and identity. For example, if a graphic short story has characters constantly grappling with their purpose in a desolate world, it might be existential. Also, the art style can play a role. Dark, moody art might enhance the existential mood.