Appropriating Traditional / Modern "Campfire Tales" and Urban Myths

[Jcomp]

So I've just read about a ghost story called "The Keyhole" (http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20090319115249AAvs8Ty) that, near as I can tell, has no author and is in league with stories like "The Hook" that are sourceless ghost stories built around a punchline ending meant to be told around a campfire or by kids at sleepovers.

This story actually stood out to me as the conclusion is satisfyingly eerie while at the same time leaves a ton of questions unanswered, and even unasked. While I have about 10 other WIPs waiting to be born in my head that have priority, the idea of expanding this story is still intriguing to me.

Has anyone here ever considered writing a novel based on some old fictional ghostlore or a campfire story? Just curious.

[Medievalist]

Has anyone here ever considered writing a novel based on some old fictional ghostlore or a campfire story? Just curious.

I think that's exactly what a lot of fantasy is, frankly, like all the versions of Snow White and Rose Red, or Tam Lin.

[PGK]

That story reminds me of "Room 1408."

[Cranky]

Have I ever considered it? Yup. Have I ever tried it? Yup.

Failed in rather spectacular fashion, too. 'Twas fun. :D

[Kitty27]

Yes.

My mom told me a story of the chanting ghosts on St.Simons Island and the ghost hounds.

I write about both in my urban fantasy books.

[CACTUSWENDY]

That was a fun story.....lol Never heard it before. Thanks for the link.

I have never tried one. I think they make for great flash stories but they are already done or have been told.

[BB_Baker]

Loved 1408, what Stephen King book was it taken from? I have tried to write one of these stories, though I never got past the first three pages.