Narrative Structures (short story)

Frame narrative

• Story within a story

• Provides context or framing device for the central narrative

Chronological or linear structure

• From beginning to end

• Straightforward

In media res

• Text starts in the middle of the action

Cyclical structure

• Story ends where it began

• Sense of closure or coming full circle

Non-linear structure

• Not presented in chronological order

• Jumps back and forth

• Provides insight into characters or themes

Stream of consciousness (borisko’s favourite)

• Continuous flow of thoughts and feelings of a character

• Mimick the way thoughts occur

Parallel plot structure

• Two storylines run at the same time

• May intersect at key points

• Adds depth and complexity

Flashbacks/ flash forward (analepsis, prolepsis) 

• Revisit events that occurred before the main story 

• Foreshadows