Writing 101: Foreshadowing
Foreshadowing is a writing method in which a writer gives an advance clue predicting a later event in the story. There are numerous ways to produce foreshadowing. Good foreshadowing should not spoil the revelation instead it should hint that action and conflict are on its way. It takes planning and a great deal of thinking in advance the key is to build anticipation to help keep the readers interested. Here are my tips to master the craft of foreshadowing:
Plan: Try outlining your story this help solidify other aspects of your writing; it also confirms you know which course your plot is headed.
Choose what to foreshadow: It is best to foreshadow the incidents leading up to the main event, but not the main event itself.
Disguise it, but not too much: Foreshadowing works the greatest in a place that’s not totally hidden, but that’s not too apparent either.
Recall it slightly: In fact, if you want to be positive your readers get it, you can have your characters state it directly to nudge your reader’s memory and guarantee they make the connection.
Check with your readers: To see if your foreshadowing was effective, check with your beta readers, evaluation partners, editors, and anyone else who gets to read your book.
Examples of Foreshadowing
1. The last graveyard flower is blooming, and its smell wanders through their house, whispers gently the names of their dead. (Foreshadows death)
2..The night was calm. Suddenly, a cool breeze started moving and made a windy evening.
(Foreshadows a storm)
3. The most dreadful thing happened on a blustery evening, the fight between good and evil began. (Foreshadows danger)
4. In the middle of the night, the mother hears the back door opening. She hurries to check on her kids, but an intruder is obstructing the way with a dagger. (Foreshadows threat)
5. They have made up their minds to take out a wicked eye forever. (Foreshadows harm to a wicked character)
6. As the nightfall paints blush, the eyes of the darkness awaken. (Foreshadows night)
7. The consistent old thoughts and the same old outcomes. (Foreshadows change)
Remember, when you’re using foreshadowing in your writing, do it wisely and make sure to avoid crossing the line into announcing. The important thing is to give your reader a reason to keep turning the page.
Katrina Kusa is a 15-year-old published author, actress, and songwriter. She currently resides in Bedford, Massachusetts but spends a lot of time traveling to Los Angeles and New York City. She values the time she spends with her family and playing with her two Boston Terriers and a French bulldog.
Katrina is available for acting roles, book readings, and speaking engagements throughout the USA and will travel abroad. Email Katrina today!