How do elements in fantasy stories contribute to the overall atmosphere?

Words in a fantasy novel contribute to the overall atmosphere by creating a sense of the unknown. For example, words like "mystery", "enigma", "shadowy" can make the setting seem more mysterious. Words related to magic like "spell", "incantation" add a touch of the supernatural.

They also add mystery. When a ghost says something cryptic like 'The answers lie in the shadows', it makes the readers curious and draws them deeper into the story. Moreover, ghost dialogues can build tension. For instance, if a ghost warns 'Soon, all will be in darkness', it makes the reader anticipate what's going to happen next, thus enhancing the overall atmosphere of the story.

When the ending involves the gothic setting being left in ruins, it gives a sense of finality and desolation. The crumbling of a haunted mansion at the end makes the whole atmosphere of mystery and danger seem to collapse as well, leaving a desolate and forlorn feeling. Also, if the ending has the character going mad, it adds to the overall sense of unease and instability in the atmosphere of the gothic story.

Strange noises like sudden bangs or eerie whispers make the atmosphere tense. They create an immediate sense of unease. Cold spots give a physical feeling of something unnatural, as if the ghost is draining the warmth. Apparitions are the most direct way to spook the reader or viewer, as seeing a ghostly figure is terrifying.

When it comes to themes like cursed objects or secrets in scary stories, they create an atmosphere of anticipation. The reader is constantly waiting for the curse to strike or the secret to be revealed, and this builds suspense. The doppelganger theme is particularly effective in creating an eerie atmosphere. It blurs the line between self and other, making the protagonist question their own identity and making the whole scenario feel very disconcerting. All these themes work together to create a thick and terrifying atmosphere in scary stories.

In The Colour of Magic fantasy novels, the use of colours really sets the mood. When there are bright, shiny colours like gold and silver, it gives an air of grandeur and magic that is almost palpable. It makes the world seem more fantastical and full of possibilities. Colours also help to distinguish different types of magic or magical beings. For instance, a character associated with ice magic might be surrounded by cool blues, while a fire - using character could be associated with reds and oranges. This not only helps in visualizing the story but also in understanding the power dynamics and the nature of the magic within the novel's world.

The way they move and act can also shape the atmosphere. If a golem moves slowly and methodically, it gives a feeling of inevitability. It's like a force of nature that can't be easily stopped. Their actions can also be unpredictable, especially if they are malfunctioning or have a mind of their own. This unpredictability can add tension to the story. In a spaceship setting, for example, a golem running amok could cause all kinds of chaos, and the characters have to figure out how to deal with it while also trying to survive in the cold expanse of space.

Symbolism plays a big role. The symbols in the story, like the husband's changing form, add an element of the uncanny to the atmosphere. It gives a sense of something being not quite right, which pervades the whole story. The forest as a symbol of the unknown also adds to the overall atmosphere of mystery and danger.

Names in dystopic novels contribute a great deal to the atmosphere. For example, in '1984', the name Winston Smith gives an impression of an everyman. The plainness of the name makes it seem like he could be anyone, which emphasizes how the dystopian system can target and oppress the common people.

Names in dystopian novels can add to the overall atmosphere in many ways. For example, if a name sounds harsh or robotic like 'Alex' in 'A Clockwork Orange', it gives the sense of a dehumanized society. Strange names like 'Equality 7 - 2521' in 'Anthem' emphasize the lack of individuality in the dystopia.