English Storytelling Techniques

The 16 Storytelling Techniques Flashcards

Foreshadowing

A literary device where the writer gives hints or clues about events that will happen later in the story.

Flashback

A scene set in an earlier time to provide background or context.

Flashforward

A scene that shows events that will happen in the future.

Chekhov's Gun

A principle stating every element in a story must have a purpose, such as introducing an object early that is crucial later.

Red Herring

A misleading clue designed to distract the audience from the real solution.

Allegory

A story where characters, events, and settings symbolize abstract ideas or moral qualities.

Suspense

The feeling of excitement or anxiety about what will happen next.

Irony

A contrast between expectation and reality.

Stream of Consciousness

A narrative style that mimics the flow of a character’s thoughts.

Frame Story

A narrative structure where the main story contains one or more additional stories.

Cliffhanger

A sudden, unresolved ending designed to keep the audience eager for more.

In Medias Res

A narrative technique where a story begins in the middle of the action.

Multiple Narratives

A technique where the story is presented from different perspectives or through multiple narrators.

Juxtaposition

Placing two contrasting elements side by side to highlight their differences.

Epiphany

A sudden realization or insight that changes a character’s perspective.

Deus Ex Machina

An unexpected or improbable event that resolves the story’s conflict.