What are the common elements in urban ghost stories?

In short urban ghost stories, the element of time is often important. Late at night or during twilight are common times when the spooky events occur. This is because these are the times when the city is in a sort of transition, not fully alive but not completely asleep either. The presence of abandoned or neglected places is also common, like an old factory or a deserted store. Ghostly apparitions are often described as wearing old - fashioned clothes, which gives a sense of them being from a different time. And the feeling of dread that builds up gradually as the story progresses is another key element. The characters in these stories usually start off skeptical but are soon forced to confront the inexplicable.

One common element is old buildings. Abandoned factories, old mansions or former hospitals often feature in these stories. They carry a sense of history and mystery. Another element is tragic events. For example, deaths, murders or suicides that took place there in the past. These events create a somber and spooky atmosphere.

The unknown is the scariest part. In true urban ghost stories, you often don't know what the 'ghost' is or why it's there. For example, in the story of the abandoned building, no one knew who the figure in the window was.

One common element is the cityscape itself. The tall buildings, busy streets, and nightlife often set the mood. For example, a couple might have a romantic moment on a balcony overlooking the city lights.

One common element is abandoned places. Like old factories or empty houses. They create a sense of isolation and mystery. Another is strange noises. In many stories, you hear unexplained creaking or moaning. Shadows are also common. People often see shadowy figures that seem to move on their own.

One common element is the use of old, dilapidated buildings. They often serve as the setting for spooky events, like haunted apartments or abandoned factories.

One common theme is the idea of vengeance. Many ghost stories involve a spirit seeking revenge for an unjust death. For example, if someone was murdered and their killer was never caught, their spirit may haunt the area to get justice.

Well, Sicilian ghost stories usually have a strong connection to the local culture and history. The ghosts are often the result of some past misdeed. For instance, in many stories, a character's greed or jealousy led to their downfall and now they haunt a place. And, the natural environment of Sicily, like the rocky coasts or the ancient forests, also plays a role. It adds to the spooky atmosphere, making the stories more believable.

One common element is the sense of unfinished business. The soldier ghosts often seem to be still tied to the place where they died, like they have something left to do. For example, still guarding a strategic point.

A common element is the undertaker's special ability to sense the supernatural. They can often feel the presence of ghosts when others can't. Another element is the setting, usually a funeral home or morgue which is spooky on its own. And often, there is a mystery surrounding a dead person that the ghost wants to reveal through the undertaker.