What makes your 'my weird family stories' so interesting?

The mystery. In weird scary stories, there are always things that can't be easily explained. It's like trying to solve a puzzle that has no obvious solution. For example, in a story about a haunted forest, the strange sounds and apparitions make you wonder what could be causing them.

The unexpectedness. In 'weird short stories', things don't follow the normal rules. For example, in 'The Metamorphosis', a man becoming an insect is so out of the ordinary. It makes you think and question the norms. Also, they often explore the darker side of human nature or society in a unique way.

The cultural mix in Texas. There are Native American, Hispanic, and Anglo - Saxon influences. Each culture has its own superstitions and beliefs about the afterlife. When these come together in ghost stories, it creates a really interesting blend. For instance, a story might combine Hispanic folklore about spirits with a Texas - specific historical event, making for a truly unique and captivating ghost story.

They are often based on local folklore and real - life locations. So it gives a sense of connection. You might pass by a place that has a spooky story attached to it. The idea that there could be something strange going on right in your own neighborhood is fascinating. It's like the everyday world has a hidden, scarier side. Also, the way these stories are passed down through generations, with each person adding a little something of their own, makes them even more interesting.

One thing that makes really weird short stories interesting is their ability to break the rules. They don't follow the typical narrative structures. Take 'The Lottery' for example. It starts off like a normal small - town story but then takes a dark and unexpected turn. They also allow for a lot of interpretation. Different readers can take different things from these stories, like in 'The Masque of the Red Death' where the symbolism can be interpreted in various ways, which makes the story rich and engaging.

The novelty. We are used to human love stories, but when it comes to aliens, everything is different. Their biology, culture, and way of thinking can create unique love scenarios.

The history. New England has a long and complex history filled with colonial times, witch trials, and seafaring adventures. All these elements seep into the stories and make them rich and full of mystery.

The unpredictability. In weird fiction books, you can't expect the normal. For example, in Lovecraft's works, the horror often comes from things that are completely beyond human understanding, like the elder gods. It's not just about ghosts or vampires which are more common in other horror genres.

Sure. One time, my family decided to have a pet chicken in the house. It was so strange. The chicken would run around the living room and even jump on the couch. We all had to be careful not to step on it.

Their unique adaptations. For example, the giraffe has a really long neck which is both strange and useful for reaching high - up leaves. Or the chameleon that can change its color for camouflage and communication. These odd features and behaviors make them stand out.