Flashback and Foreshadowing

Flashback When a character remembers something from the past, it is called a flashback. It is like a memory. A flashback can be as short as a few sentences in a story, or a whole story can be a flashback.

Flashback Example Toy Story Example

What is the flashback? "You're getting it. Good girl!" Anya cheered as she ran beside her little sister. Anya smiled, remembering when her dad had taught her to ride a bike. She could still see him running beside her, even when he didn't need to anymore! He'd always been so protective. But now, he was gone and she alone had to take care of the family. "I still need you, Dad," she whispered.

Flashback Check out these flashbacks from UP.

Why do writers use flashbacks? Flashbacks can give you information about a character to help you figure out his/her reasons for doing things. Our example would help you understand why Anya might turn down a chance to go to a college far away from home, even though that was her dream.

Foreshadowing Foreshadowing gives readers clues about what might happen later in a story. Being able to recognize a foreshadowing moment in a story can help you make good predictions.

Foreshadowing Example Even as a little kid, no one had to tell you that when Mrs. Rabbit told Peter, "Don't go into Mr. MacGregor's garden," he'd go – and get into trouble! The author's words foreshadowed danger.

Foreshadowing Example How many examples of foreshadowing can you find? Jaws Example

What is it foreshadowing? I looked at the speedometer. Paul was driving even faster. "Please slow down," I said. "We're coming to a really bad curve in the road!" But he didn't slow down and the snow was drifting higher and higher. I could hardly see the road!

Why do writers use foreshadowing? Foreshadowing "sets up" future events and builds suspense. You might not know why the author mentions something until later in the story.