What are some common elements at the end of a short story?

One common element is a tragic character flaw. For example, in many 'bad end stories', the protagonist's excessive pride might lead them to make poor decisions. Another element could be an unbeatable external force, like a powerful and evil tyrant in a fantasy 'bad end story' who crushes all opposition. Also, a missed opportunity often plays a role. Maybe the character had a chance to save themselves or others but failed to recognize it in time.

Typically, there is a sudden and unexpected twist at the end of a campfire ghost story. For example, the supposedly safe place the characters thought they were in turns out to be haunted after all. Or the 'ghost' that was thought to be defeated suddenly reappears in a more menacing way.

High tension is a common element. For instance, in a horror short story, the climax might have the main character facing the monster directly.

One common element is the setting. Usually it's a dark, isolated place like an old house, a forest at night, or an empty alley. Another is the unknown noise or movement. For example, a strange scratching or a sudden thud. Also, the feeling of being alone and vulnerable plays a big part. It heightens the fear when the character in the story has no one to turn to immediately.

Dark and isolated settings are common, like an old abandoned house or a deep forest. This creates a sense of unease and vulnerability.

Often, there are elements of isolation. You might be alone in a big, empty place like a deserted city or a vast empty field. Unsettling sounds are also common, like shrill screams or low, menacing growls. And there's frequently a change in the normal state of things. For instance, water that burns instead of quenches thirst or a sky that is blood - red instead of blue. This deviation from the norm creates a sense of unease and horror in the short nightmare story.

A common element is a clear beginning, middle, and end. There's often a main character with a goal or problem to solve. And there's usually some sort of conflict or challenge that drives the story forward.

Another possible theme is the passage of time. Stories might show how Crouch End has changed over the years or how the characters' lives are affected by the passage of time in this particular location. This can create a nostalgic or forward - looking tone depending on the story's focus.

One common theme is victory or defeat. It shows whether the characters succeed or fail in their final push. Another could be sacrifice, as characters may have to give up something in the end game to achieve a greater good.

Another theme is the loss of civilization. As the world ends, social structures break down. In many stories, we see the absence of law and order. For instance, in some post - apocalyptic short stories, people form gangs and fight over the few remaining resources. It shows how fragile our civilized norms are when faced with the end of the world.