M. R. James often focused on creating a creepy atmosphere and using vivid descriptions. He also incorporated elements of the supernatural in a believable way.
The special thing about M R James Christmas Ghost Stories is the atmosphere. He creates a very unique and spooky mood, especially when combined with the Christmas setting. Christmas is usually a time of joy and celebration, but his stories turn it into something a bit more sinister.
It's hard to pick just one as the best, but 'Oh, Whistle, and I'll Come to You, My Lad' is often highly regarded. The simplicity of the object that triggers the supernatural events, the whistle, is quite brilliant. And the way the horror unfolds as the figure is seen approaching in the night is very effective.
Another great one is 'Casting the Runes'. It's known for its menacing and insidious plot. The idea of a curse being passed through runic symbols is really spooky. The story shows how the curse gradually affects the victim in a very unsettling way.
Some of the best M R James ghost stories include 'Oh, Whistle, and I'll Come to You, My Lad'. It's a classic with a very eerie atmosphere. The story builds tension effectively as the main character encounters strange happenings after finding a whistle on a desolate beach.
Yes, 'The Stalls of Barchester Cathedral' is another great one. It has a very mysterious plot. The story unfolds in a cathedral setting, and as with many of M R James' works, there are strange occurrences and a sense of unease. His use of detailed descriptions of the environment and the characters' experiences really draws you into the story and makes it a great Christmas - themed ghost story.
His writing style is also a factor. He writes in a rather matter - of - fact way which makes the horror seem more real. It's like he's just reporting on these strange events that he has witnessed. This simplicity in his writing, combined with the complex and often disturbing supernatural elements, makes his ghost stories truly special.
Well, one characteristic is the vivid and detailed settings. James often sets his stories in old, spooky places like ancient monasteries or isolated mansions. This creates a perfect backdrop for the supernatural events to unfold.
There are many different main characters across the stories. In 'Canon Alberic's Scrap - Book', Canon Alberic is a key figure. He discovers the strange scrap - book which brings about a series of eerie events.
The 'Oh, Whistle, and I'll Come to You, My Lad' is quite chilling. The apparition that haunts the protagonist after he finds the strange whistle is truly spooky.