How to Tell a Ghost Story

Do you remember lying in the dark at a slumber party while a brave soul in the group told an eerie ghost story? It seemed that every shadow on the wall took on a sinister tone as you listened spellbound to the ghostly conclusion. Sleep didn't come easily after one of those spooky stories because you were sure ghostly apparitions lurked in every corner of the room. While you may no longer be petrified by haunting tales of wayward spirits, you can certainly deliver ghostly tales of horror that make the hair on people's necks stand at attention. Here's how:

How to tell a ghost story: Choose a quality ghost story

Ghost stories have abounded throughout history. Unless you intend to create your own, you'll want to choose an especially scary one. Search through antiquarian books and do online searches for the best ghost stories from the past. Memorize them for the next opportunity you have to deliver a spooky tale. Enjoy the experience of reading ghost stories from days gone by. It'll surely bring back memories of childhood.

How to tell a ghost story: Learn the art of effective delivery

How you deliver the story makes all the difference in how your audience receives it. Use proper voice deflections and strategic pauses at the most spine tingling parts of the story. When things start to crescendo, stop and let people wonder what will happen next. Build suspense, intrigue and learn to arouse emotions in your listeners. You'll have your audience waiting for the chilling conclusion with bated breath.

How to tell a ghost story: Create the proper atmosphere

To make your story more effective, add some appropriate props such as a blazing fire in the fireplace or suspenseful music. Of course you'll want to dim the lights. A ghost story has minimal impact when it's told in broad daylight. One of the best settings for telling an effective ghost story is outdoors while gathered around a blazing camp fire. You'll get even more points if the campfire is surrounded by dark woods.

How to tell a ghost story: Personalize the story