How To Write Good Horror: A Very Basic Guide

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What makes up a good horror story?

Writing good horror can be very tricky, mainly because fear can be very subjective. Different things scare different people. While some might get a thrill out of a good monster or slasher film, some might prefer something more psychological that can really make their skin crawl. 

Though, whether your story scares anyone or not, there are a few basic building blocks that make up not only horror, but good storytelling in general.

Setting and Atmosphere:

Every great horror story needs a good setting. The environment is more than just a setting, it’s the backdrop of the fear itself.

Think of the creepy mansion on the hill that’s been empty for ages or the abandoned amusement park where no one goes. But things don’t always have to be so obvious, you can even try a setting where things are usually safe. Like the sleepy town where nothing ever happens or a seemingly normal looking apartment building. Whichever route you choose, make sure you flesh out your setting properly with vivid descriptions, sensory details and well imagined scene. You have to make the reader feel like they’re there.

Realistic and relatable characters:

A horror story is only as good as its characters. When creating a character, you need to ask yourself one question; why should the reader care about them? Give your characters well thought out backstories, motivations and fleshed out personalities. 

Don’t make them perfect superheroes, give them flaws and vulnerabilities. A story hits harder when people start to relate to its characters. The more human you make them (if they are human) the easier the reader will become invested in their survival, or downfall.

The suspense:

Great horror doesn’t just reveal everything all at once. Horror is built up with suspense and anticipation. It’s often a slow burn, starting with eerie signs of a possible haunting or mystery that leads to a terrifying conclusion. A good example of this is The Haunting of Hill house by Shirley Jackson, a timeless classic. 

You have to leave the reader wondering, each clue and revelation will need to leave them thinking and wanting more. By delaying the end, you create dread, where the reader knows something is coming, but don’t what and when its going to happen.

The Climax:

The climax is arguably the best part of any novel or film. Its like the final drop on the rollercoaster before the end. It’s the part where the monster has fully taken shape, the killer has been unmasked or when a desperate escape begins. 

The climax doesn’t have to be quick, unless that’s what you were aiming for. Often, the best are more drawn out, which can often be more terrifying. What matters most though, is that all the suspense you have built up, pays off in a way that shocks and thrills your readers.

The Ending and leaving a lasting impression:

The end to a good novel or film can make or break a whole story. It should lead the viewer with a lasting impression. End strong, with a memorable note. Some prefer more satisfying conclusions, where evil has been defeated and good has been restored. 

While others might prefer more ambiguous endings, like The Lottery by Shirley Jackson. Whatever you decide, end strong. Horror relies on the aftershock and lingering scare it leaves even after its done.

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