One common element is the sense of the unknown. For example, in a story where there are strange noises in an old building at night. You don't know what's causing the noises, which creates unease. Another element is the use of atmosphere, like a foggy cemetery or a dark, empty house. It sets the mood for horror. And often there are unexplained phenomena, such as objects moving on their own.
One common element could be the initial hesitation. People usually have to overcome their own inhibitions and the norms they were brought up with. Another element might be communication. They need to talk about their desires, boundaries, and expectations clearly.
Horror stories often feature a protagonist who is in over their head. They might start out as an ordinary person, like in 'Rosemary's Baby' where Rosemary is just a normal woman, but then they are thrust into a terrifying situation. Settings also play a big role. Abandoned asylums, cemeteries, and old mansions are common settings in horror stories as they have an air of mystery and danger already associated with them.
Fear of death is a big element in horror stories. The threat of death, whether it's from a serial killer or a supernatural force, is always present. Also, there's often a sense of helplessness. The characters find themselves in situations where they seem to have little control over what's happening to them. For instance, in 'The Blair Witch Project', the characters are lost in the woods and being hunted by an unknown entity. There's also the use of suspense. Writers build up the tension by delaying the reveal of the horror, making the readers or viewers more and more anxious as the story progresses.
Love and lust are common themes. Often there's a focus on the physical attraction between characters.
Love and acceptance are common themes. In soft gay stories, the characters often have to accept their own sexual orientation and then find acceptance from others, like family and friends. Another theme is the growth of the relationship, which is usually shown in a gentle and gradual way.
One common element is over - expansion. Just like in the example of the small business that expanded too quickly. Another is unexpected competition, as seen in the tech start - up story. And also external factors like a large chain store affecting a local business.
A common element is mismeasurement. People often use too much or too little nutmeg, which leads to disastrous results in cooking or baking.
Well, a big common element is the build - up of tension. Since the character can't move freely due to the bondage, every little sound or movement in the vicinity becomes a source of fear. Take the story where a girl was tied up in a attic. She could hear creaking floorboards but didn't know if it was just the old house or something more sinister. Also, the element of the unknown is crucial. The victim in bondage doesn't know what will happen next, whether they will be tortured, killed, or something even worse. This uncertainty is what makes these stories so terrifying.
Often, lack of proper after - care is a common element. If patients don't receive the right post - surgery support, they can face infections, slow healing, and other complications. Also, unrealistic expectations play a part. Some people expect SRS to solve all their problems, but when it doesn't, they are left feeling devastated.
The wilderness is a common element. The vast, unforgiving Alaskan landscape can isolate people and make them vulnerable. Another element is the extreme weather. Blizzards, freezing temperatures, and fog can create a spooky atmosphere and add to the sense of danger.