What makes a scary dream short story compelling?

For a dream short story to be compelling, it needs vivid descriptions that make the dream world come alive. Also, having a twist or surprise ending can add a lot of appeal. And, of course, well-developed characters that the readers can relate to or care about are crucial.

A good scary night short story usually has a creepy setting, unexpected twists, and characters that you can relate to but also fear for.

A compelling 'dream come true' short story usually has elements like strong emotions, a sense of hope, and a resolution that feels earned. The challenges faced should be realistic but overcome in an inspiring way.

I think it's the element of mystery. When you don't know what's coming next and there's a sense of lurking danger, that makes a book with scary short stories truly compelling. Good pacing and a creepy atmosphere help too.

Well, it's all about the atmosphere and the events in the dream. If the dream has a spooky atmosphere, like a haunted house with creaking floors and cold drafts, that can start to make it a scary story. Then, if there are events like seeing things that shouldn't be there, like a floating head or a disembodied hand. Also, if the dream involves a sense of impending doom, like a dark cloud following you and getting closer. And when the dream plays on our primal fears, such as the fear of the unknown or the fear of being alone in a dangerous place, it can easily be turned into a scary story.

The element of the unknown. In a dream, anything can happen, and when it's a scary story set in a dream, the lack of control and the unpredictable nature create fear. For example, if you suddenly find yourself in a dream where the ground is disappearing beneath your feet, and you don't know why or how to stop it.

Compelling short stories often have well - developed characters. The readers need to be able to relate to or at least understand the characters' motives. Also, the writing style matters. Vivid descriptions, like in Ernest Hemingway's short stories, can draw the reader in. And a good short story usually has a theme that makes the reader think, such as love, death, or the human condition.

For a short story to be compelling, it needs an interesting theme, vivid descriptions, and maybe a touch of mystery. The characters' development is crucial too. A story that makes you think or feel strongly is more likely to be compelling.

A good one usually has a relatable main character and clear steps towards achieving the dream. It also shows the challenges and how they were overcome.

The element of surprise and unexpected connections often make such a story compelling. When two people come together in unexpected ways, it adds excitement.