What are the common elements in real scary short stories?

One common element is the unknown. For example, in many stories like 'The Yellow Wallpaper', the main character is in a situation where she doesn't understand what's really going on, and that mystery creates fear. Another element is isolation. In 'The Lighthouse', the two lighthouse keepers are isolated from the rest of the world, which heightens the sense of dread when strange things start to happen. Also, death is often involved, whether it's an impending death like in 'The Masque of the Red Death' or a past death that haunts the present, as in 'The Fall of the House of Usher'.

One common element is the sense of isolation. For example, like the girl alone at home in the first story. Another is the unknown or the mysterious. The figure in the cemetery was very mysterious. And often there is a sense of something being not right in a familiar place, like the attic in the third story.

Dark settings are common. For example, an old, creaky house or a desolate forest. These create an immediate sense of unease. Another element is the unknown. Like in stories where there are strange noises but no clear source. It plays on our fear of the unexpected.

One common element is the unknown. In many bedtime scary short stories, there are things that the characters can't explain, like strange noises or movements. For example, in the story of the haunted doll, the girl doesn't know why the doll is giggling or moving. Another element is the setting. Dark and isolated places such as forests, old houses or attics are often used. These places create a sense of unease and fear. Darkness is also a big part. When it's dark, our imagination runs wild, and things seem scarier. Just like in the story of the traveler in the forest, the darkness made the glowing eyes even more terrifying.

Ghosts are a common element. Many Japanese short scary stories feature spirits of the dead, like the yurei, which are often depicted as pale figures in white clothing. Another common element is the use of old, spooky settings such as abandoned houses, temples, or wells. These places are believed to be haunted in Japanese folklore.

One common element is the presence of strange noises. Like in many stories, guests hear unexplained scratching, banging or moaning sounds during the night. Another element is the appearance of apparitions. Figures in white or shadowy forms are often seen in the hallways or rooms. Also, old and creepy - looking objects in the hotel rooms, such as antique furniture or old portraits, can add to the scariness.

Often, kids' scary short stories include elements like creepy settings. Old houses, dark forests, or deserted places are common. These places are associated with danger and the unknown. Monsters or strange creatures are also a big part. Even if they are not fully shown, just the idea of them is enough to scare. For instance, in the story of the 'Hook Man', we don't really see the man clearly but the thought of a hook - handed maniac is terrifying. And there is usually a character who is either brave but soon realizes they are in over their head, or a character who is already scared and has to face their fears.

One common element is the setting. Often, it's a dark and isolated place like an old house, a forest at night, or an abandoned building. These places create a sense of unease and mystery. Another element is the unknown. For example, in many stories, there are strange noises or figures that are not fully explained. It makes the reader's imagination run wild. And a lot of times, there's a sense of being trapped. The characters can't easily escape the spooky situation, which adds to the tension.

Reflection distortion is a common element. Like the reflection not acting as it should, such as blinking at odd times or having a different expression. Another is the appearance of something unexpected in the mirror, like a strange figure or a menacing face.

Strange noises are often present in these stories. Whether it's creaking floors, whispering voices, or howling winds, they add to the scariness. For example, in a story, a child might hear scratching on the window at night, which is very frightening. Another element is the appearance of something unknown or mysterious, such as a shadowy figure or a pair of glowing eyes. This gives the reader or listener a sense of the unknown and danger. It makes them wonder what that thing could be and what it might do to the main character in the story.