One of the most fundamental fears is fear of the unknown. And nothing is more unknown when it is in complete darkness.
Being surrounded in darkness is a foundational component of horror. It is part of telling stories around a campfire, when you are surrounded by the darkness of night. It is part of most horror movies, where a creature or ghost lurks just beyond what a person or the audience can see. And it often used in horror books and stories, cluing people into what is there little by little in order to build tension.
Cody Meirick on November 3, 2023