spark.

WRITING GLOSSARY

What is Foreshadowing?

Foreshadowing is a narrative technique where the author plants subtle hints about events that will happen later in the story.

Definition

Foreshadowing is a narrative technique where the author plants subtle hints about events that will happen later in the story.

Example

A cracked mirror in chapter one may foreshadow a character's betrayal in chapter ten.

Related terms

Common mistakes

  • Making hints so obvious they spoil the twist.
  • Planting clues that never pay off.
Back to glossary