What role does foreshadowing serve in a narrative?

Foreshadowing plays a critical role in a narrative by hinting at future events, which helps prepare the reader for what is to come. This technique can create a sense of anticipation or expectation, allowing readers to pick up on subtle clues that suggest how the plot will unfold. By using foreshadowing, an author can subtly signal significant plot developments or the fates of characters, which contributes to the overall narrative structure and helps to create a coherent and engaging story.

While other elements might also contribute to the narrative experience, the primary function of foreshadowing is to provide these hints about future events, enhancing the reader's connection to the unfolding story. This creates layers in the narrative, encouraging readers to analyze and think critically about the connections between different events and ideas within the text.