While it's not explicitly labeled as horror, it certainly has strong elements of the genre. It features:
* A mysterious and eerie atmosphere: The setting of a remote signal station on a desolate stretch of railway creates a sense of isolation and foreboding.
* A supernatural event: The appearance of the signalman's spectral warning is a clear element of the supernatural.
* A sense of dread and suspense: The story builds tension through the narrator's gradual realization of the truth and the fear he experiences.
* Psychological horror: The story explores themes of guilt, isolation, and the fragility of the human mind.
However, "The Signalman" also has elements of Gothic literature with its focus on dark, mysterious settings and the exploration of psychological themes.
Ultimately, "The Signalman" can be classified as a ghost story with Gothic influences, offering a chilling and thought-provoking reading experience.