What makes sad stories?

Answer 1

There are multiple ways to approach this question.

What makes a story sad? -- It appeals to what you find to be unpleasant circumstances. A character can't find a way to escape her husband's abuse; a child can't make her mother and father stay married; a girl can't make her boyfriend stop cheating on her; an old man can't make his wife come back from death.

In writing, what makes a story sad is that a character wants something really badly, but he/she can't find a way to get what he/she wants.

What makes sad stories? -- Conflict without resolution.

What makes sad stories? -- Better yet, "who" makes sad stories? Someone who's maybe been there in that sad place and got out, and wants to tell you how he did it.

And humorously--what makes a story sad? -- Crappy writing. Put it down and find a story that makes you happy.

Answer 2

Sad stories often evoke strong emotions by exploring themes of loss, tragedy, or betrayal. They can resonate with readers by tapping into universal experiences of suffering, heartache, and adversity that trigger empathy and introspection. The portrayal of relatable characters facing poignant challenges or unexpected endings can also contribute to the emotional impact of a sad story.