One common element is the presence of water. As in the story of La Llorona, water often plays a role, either as the place where the tragic event occurred or as the area where the ghost is seen. Another element is the idea of revenge or unfinished business. Many Colombian ghosts are said to be there because they have something unresolved in their past lives.
There's also the story of the Black Dog of the Colombian countryside. This spectral dog is often seen as an omen of death. Locals believe that if you see this black dog on a lonely road, especially at night, it's a sign that something bad is about to happen, perhaps the death of a loved one.
Colombian short stories often feature strong cultural elements. They may depict the unique Colombian landscapes, from the mountains to the coasts. For example, in many stories, the setting plays a significant role in shaping the characters and the plot.
Supernatural powers also play a role. In the case of El Silbón, he has the power to steal children without being seen easily. These powers add to the sense of fear and mystery in Colombian scary stories as they defy normal human capabilities.
Another scary Colombian story involves an old, abandoned mansion on the outskirts of a small town. People say that at night, strange noises come from the mansion, and if you look closely, you can see shadowy figures moving about. Some believe it was once a place of dark magic and the spirits are still trapped there.
One interesting Colombian cultural story is about the Carnaval de Barranquilla. It is a huge celebration filled with colorful parades, music, and dancing. People from all over the world come to experience this unique event that showcases the rich cultural heritage of Colombia, with a mix of indigenous, African, and European influences.
A lot of these horror stories involve miscommunication. For example, a patient went for a dental crown procedure. The dental clinic in Colombia advertised a certain type of crown material. But when the patient arrived, they found out that a different, inferior material was going to be used. The patient didn't feel like they had much choice at that point as they were already there. And after the procedure, the crown didn't fit properly and caused a lot of discomfort. This shows that sometimes dental tourism in Colombia can have its dark sides.
The way they portray characters. Colombian short stories tend to create very vivid and complex characters. These characters are often caught in difficult situations, whether it's social, political or personal, and their reactions and growth throughout the story are what make the stories truly unique. They can be simple people with extraordinary inner lives, like the colonel in García Márquez's 'The Colonel'.