The unknown entity doing the possessing is also a big factor. We don't know what it wants or how far it will go. For example, in 'The Exorcist', the demon's motives are unclear at first, and its power is terrifying. The grotesque changes in the possessed character's behavior, like unnatural contortions and speaking in strange voices, add to the horror. The idea that this could happen to anyone makes it even scarier.
The religious or supernatural elements often associated with possession can also be a source of fear. In many possession horror novels, there are elements of good vs. evil, heaven vs. hell. The thought that there are forces beyond our understanding that can take over our bodies and souls is a very frightening concept. It plays on our deepest fears about the afterlife and the existence of malevolent spirits.
Supernatural horror fiction creates fear in multiple ways. First, it plays on our primal fears. Things like death, the afterlife, and the existence of evil spirits are deeply ingrained in our psyche. By bringing these to the forefront in stories, it scares us. Second, it uses suspense. Writers build up tension, making us wonder what will happen next. For instance, in a story about a haunted house, we keep waiting for the next terrifying encounter. Third, the use of supernatural elements that violate the laws of nature, such as vampires that can't die or witches with powerful magic, makes us feel vulnerable and thus fearful.
IT horror novels often create fear by using the unknown aspects of technology. For example, in 'It', the entity Pennywise can manipulate technology in the town, like making the sewers seem even more menacing, which scares readers as it's something that could potentially happen in real life.
By using descriptive language. For instance, if it describes a place as 'dimly lit, with cobwebs hanging like death shrouds', it immediately sets a spooky mood. Also, the introduction of an unknown threat, like 'a shadow moved in the corner, but she couldn't see what it was' creates fear.
Nosleep horror stories create fear through vivid descriptions. For example, they might describe a monster with 'glowing red eyes and razor - sharp teeth.' Just reading that makes you picture a terrifying creature.
They often use the unknown. For instance, in a sofi horror story, there could be a mysterious figure in the shadows. You don't know who or what it is, which makes it scary.
Suspense horror stories use several techniques to create fear. One is the use of atmosphere. Dark, gloomy settings like an old, abandoned mansion or a fog - covered cemetery immediately set a spooky mood. In 'Dracula', the Transylvanian castle is a perfect example. Another way is through unreliable narrators. When the person telling the story might be crazy or lying, like in 'The Tell - Tale Heart', it makes the reader question what's real and adds to the fear. And the element of isolation is important too. If the characters are alone in a scary place, like in 'The Shining' with the family in the isolated hotel, it amps up the fear factor.
They create fear through their appearance. For example, a character with a disfigured face or blood - soaked clothes can be really scary. Their actions also matter. If a character moves in a jerky, unnatural way, it gives off a spooky vibe. Another way is through their voices. A hoarse, whispering voice can send shivers down your spine.
Horror gothic novels create fear through various means. The atmosphere is crucial. They build an atmosphere of gloom and doom, with elements like mist, howling winds, and creaking doors. The use of foreshadowing also plays a big role. In 'Dracula', there are many hints about the vampire's arrival and his evil deeds before he actually shows up. The characters' psychological states are another factor. For instance, the madness that overcomes Dr. Jekyll as he transforms into Mr. Hyde is terrifying. And the way these novels often isolate their characters, whether in a remote castle or on a lonely island, makes the reader feel their vulnerability and thus heightens the sense of fear.
Wilderness horror novels create fear through isolation. When characters are alone in the vast wilderness, far from help, it amps up the tension. For example, in 'The Ruins', the characters are trapped in the jungle with no easy way out. Also, the unknown elements in the wilderness, like strange noises or unseen creatures, play a big role. In 'Annihilation', the Area X is full of things that are not clearly defined, making the reader feel uneasy.
Horror gothic stories create fear through their characters too. Creepy characters such as vampires, monsters, and deranged madmen are common. In 'Frankenstein', the monster is a terrifying creation that is both pitiable and frightening. The way these characters interact with the innocent protagonists makes the readers or viewers feel afraid. Also, the use of the supernatural elements, like ghosts and curses, adds to the sense of fear as they go against the laws of nature that we are used to.