1. MoonWriter67

    MoonWriter67 New Member

    Joined:
    Jan 5, 2010
    Messages:
    28
    Likes Received:
    0

    Suspense Tips

    Discussion in 'Plot Development' started by MoonWriter67, Aug 15, 2011.

    Hey guys,

    Any tips on building and maintaining suspense in your horror stories?
     
  2. Gryphonboy

    Gryphonboy New Member

    Joined:
    Aug 11, 2011
    Messages:
    28
    Likes Received:
    0
    Location:
    Dublin
    Suspense is a difficult thing to do right. It's not like a movie where you have the luxury of music that can be used to influence a viewers emotional response.
    I would say that it is something that has to be carefully crafted and slowly built up over a number of pages at least. A good device I find that some authors use is to shroud the menace/evil so that the protagonist spends a good period of time unsure about what it is that is chasing them or even completely unaware of the danger.
     
  3. Cain

    Cain Member

    Joined:
    Jun 19, 2011
    Messages:
    91
    Likes Received:
    6
    Location:
    Cambridge, UK
    If you do one thing, and one thing only, then it really has to be
     
  4. Gryphonboy

    Gryphonboy New Member

    Joined:
    Aug 11, 2011
    Messages:
    28
    Likes Received:
    0
    Location:
    Dublin
    ...the suspense is killing me!!
     
  5. Cogito

    Cogito Former Mod, Retired Supporter Contributor

    Joined:
    May 19, 2007
    Messages:
    36,161
    Likes Received:
    2,828
    Location:
    Massachusetts, USA
    Suspense is relieved by revelation. Therefore, delay revelation as long as possible, and only reveal the minimum necessary for the story.
     

Share This Page

  1. This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register.
    By continuing to use this site, you are consenting to our use of cookies.
    Dismiss Notice