Well, the loss of safety can transform a happy story into a scary one. Think of a story where a family is living happily in their home. But then there are signs that their house is haunted, like strange noises and objects moving on their own. The family's sense of safety is gone, and the happy story about their home life becomes a scary tale of the unknown within their own walls.
Well, sometimes a happy story can turn into a scary one when there's a sudden plot twist. For example, in a story about a lovely family picnic, if suddenly a wild and dangerous animal appears out of nowhere, it changes the mood from happy to scary.
One common element is the presence of the unknown. For example, in many make believe scary stories, there are mysterious figures or forces that are not fully understood. Another element is the use of dark and eerie settings like abandoned houses or graveyards. These places create an atmosphere of dread. Also, things that go against the normal order, such as inanimate objects coming to life, are common. For instance, a haunted doll or a possessed painting.
One element is a sense of isolation. If the character is alone when they turn left and there's no one to help them, it becomes scarier. Another is the unknown. Maybe there are rumors about the place to the left being haunted. And then there are the little details, like a cold wind that blows only on the left side, or a strange smell that gets stronger as you turn left.
The threat of death is a major element. When soldiers are in combat, they are constantly at risk of being killed or seriously injured. For example, in a firefight, bullets are flying everywhere, and one wrong move can be fatal.
The atmosphere is crucial. Dark, desolate settings like old mansions or abandoned asylums create a sense of dread. Another element is the element of the unknown. If a character in a story hears strange noises but can't figure out where they are coming from, it builds suspense. For instance, in the haunted house story, the couple heard whispers but couldn't tell who or what was making them.
One element is the power of nature. Thunderstorms can be so violent that they make you feel small and helpless. High winds that howl like angry beasts, rain that comes down in sheets so thick you can't see far, and hail that pounds on roofs and windows. Also, the unknown. If there are strange noises during a thunderstorm, like creaking in an old attic or something scratching at the window, it's easy to let your imagination run wild and think of all kinds of spooky things.
One element is the presence of positive emotions like love and kindness. For example, in a story where a stranger helps an old lady cross the street, the act of kindness makes the story happy. Another is the sense of achievement, such as a student getting an A+ after studying hard.
One element is the power of love against all odds. In many places, gay people face discrimination, but in happy stories, their love overcomes that. For example, a gay couple in a conservative town still manages to build a happy life together, showing that love is stronger.
First, unexpected encounters. For example, meeting someone in a place you least expect like an airport or a grocery store. Second, shared interests. When two people love the same things like painting or dancing, it creates a strong bond. Third, little acts of kindness. Such as leaving a sweet note or bringing a cup of coffee. These elements add charm and happiness to love stories.
Ghosts are a very common scary element. They often represent the unknown and the afterlife. Another is the idea of being trapped, whether it's in a small, dark space or in a situation from which there seems to be no escape. Monsters are also common, like vampires or werewolves that have the power to harm and kill.