What makes a short story thrilling?

A good thriller short story often has a sense of mystery. For example, in 'The Yellow Wallpaper' by Charlotte Perkins Gilman, the mystery of the woman's mental state and what's really behind the wallpaper keeps readers on edge.

In a thrilling and funny short story, the pacing is key. It quickly builds up the thrilling parts, creating suspense. Then, when the funny moments come, they are like a release of that tension. Also, the characters play a big role. Quirky characters in a dangerous or strange situation often lead to both thrills and laughter. Take 'The Stolen Bacillus' for instance. The madman's character is so extreme that it's funny, yet his actions create a thrilling situation.

Well, a thriller story is thrilling when it has a fast-paced plot, complex characters with hidden motives, and a constant sense of danger. Also, the element of mystery plays a big role in keeping the readers or viewers engaged and curious.

Suspense is a key characteristic. For example, in 'The Monkey's Paw', the reader is constantly on edge wondering what will happen when the family makes wishes on the magical paw. Another is a sense of danger. In many thrilling short stories, the main character is in some sort of peril, like in 'The Most Dangerous Game' where the protagonist is hunted by a madman. Also, unexpected twists are common. Just when you think you know how a story will end, like in 'The Necklace', there's a big surprise at the end.

The sense of danger. Since murder is involved, the readers or listeners immediately feel the characters are in real peril. For example, in a story where a person is trapped in a room with a murderer outside, the constant threat creates a thrilling atmosphere. Also, the brevity forces the writer to focus on the scariest parts, like the moment of the actual murder or the killer's menacing presence, which amps up the thrill factor.

The sudden scares. They often have a moment where something unexpected and spooky happens all of a sudden, like a ghost appearing out of nowhere. This jolt of fear is what makes them so exciting. For example, in a story where a character is just going about their normal business in an old house and then suddenly sees a pair of glowing eyes in the dark. It's that quick moment of shock that gets the heart racing. Also, the short length means the intensity is concentrated, and there's no time for the fear to dissipate.

The suspense in campfire scary short stories is a big factor. For example, when the story builds up slowly, like introducing a strange noise in the forest that no one can explain. The reader or listener is left to wonder what could be making that noise. And as the story progresses and the details get more and more spooky, it gets thrilling. Also, the fact that many of these stories are based on local superstitions or unexplained events makes them more exciting as it gives a sense of mystery.

They often play on our primal fears. For example, being alone in a vast and somewhat dangerous natural environment like the woods. In these stories, things like strange noises or mysterious figures trigger our fight - or - flight response. Also, the setting of a campfire makes it more immersive. You can hear the crackling of the fire while imagining the scary events in the story, which heightens the overall experience.

The element of forbidden love often makes a gay story thrilling. In many places and times, same - sex relationships were not accepted, so when two people fall in love despite this, it adds a sense of danger and excitement. For example, in historical settings where they could face severe punishment if discovered.

A haunted love story is thrilling when it combines elements like unexpected twists, lurking dangers, and the struggle of love against all odds. The fear of the unknown and the depth of emotions make it exciting.