Animals
In many cultures, this silent nocturnal bird was believed to carry souls or foretell death because of its eerie calls.
Owl
In this story, a murderer insists he’s sane while claiming he can still hear his victim’s beating heart beneath the floorboards.
The Tell‑Tale Heart
Who you gonna call?
Ghostbusters
In 1692, fear and superstition led to more than 200 accusations and 20 executions in this New England town.
Salem
I cross your path without a sound; superstition says I bring misfortune around.
Black Cat
First reported in Puerto Rico in the 1990s, this creature was blamed for livestock drained of blood.
Chupacabra
Published in 1845, this poem features a talking bird whose only word drives the narrator into despair.
The Raven
Billie Eilish sings from the perspective of a monster under the bed in this unsettling 2019 hit.
Bury a Friend
During WWII, this U.S. unit used inflatable tanks, fake radio chatter, and sound effects to deceive enemy forces.
Ghost Army
I cling to corners and forgotten rooms, a sign that no one has visited in far too long.
Cobwebs
In 1932, Australia sent soldiers to battle this large bird — and lost.
The Great Emu War / The Emu
Now a popular tavern, this Newark landmark is said to be cursed by Poe, who proclaimed that “all who enter shall have to return.”
Deer Park Tavern
Rihanna’s 2008 track describes a creeping psychological darkness that "feels like a monster."
Distrubia
Once home to strict solitary confinement, this Philadelphia prison is now famous for shadow figures and echoing footsteps in Cellblock 12.
Eastern State Penitentiary
I stretch ahead with no cars, no people, yet you swear you hear someone walking just behind you.
Street
Some historians think this 1518 mass hysteria event may have been triggered by venom from this real arachnid.
Tarantulas
Poe’s young wife suffered from a disease that caused coughing fits and blood loss, inspiring many of his tragic heroines.
Tuberculosis
This novelty hit from 1962 features Dracula, Frankenstein, and a graveyard dance party.
The Monster Mash
In 1937, this pioneering aviator disappeared over the Pacific while attempting to circumnavigate the globe.
Amelia Earhart
I slip past you like a cold hand, though every window is shut tight.
Draft
During the harsh winter of 1450, packs of these animals roamed Paris and attacked citizens, inspiring centuries of fear.
Wolves
Often called the first modern detective story, it features C. Auguste Dupin solving a brutal double murder.
The Murders in the Rue Morgue
Daylight come and me wan’ go home
Day‑O (The Banana Boat Song)
According to an 18th‑century tale, this ship was found drifting with its crew frozen in place, the captain still seated at his desk.
The Octavius
I flicker when spirits draw near, or so the stories say; I’m small, bright, and easily swayed.
Candle flame