Whether you have a critique group or simply valued and trusted readers, you may receive feedback about some element not working in your story. Often the readers, in an attempt to be helpful, attempt to come up with reasons why something doesn’t work or give advice about how to improve the questionable section(s).
However, I usually find the problem occurs because the element — plot twist, character reaction, goal, motivation, whatever — comes out of the blue with no or little warning.
A simple solution: foreshadowing.
If someone is going to die at the Crisis towards the end of the Beginning, make sure you introduce the concept of death as early as possible — preferably first scene — either as a metaphor or some sort of death, not necessarily big. Could be as simple as a dead insect or small bird or whatever.
If the protagonist decides to get a job in the Middle, be sure the idea of no money, need for a job, or the concept of working is introduced in the Beginning (1/4) of the project — this can be done by some other character and does not have to be obvious. None of what I’m talking about here is blatant, but more subtle = foreshadowing.
Don’t forget. The Beginning (1/4) is in the introductory mode — introduction of all the characters, setting, theme, concepts that will come later, anything and everything that will be deepened in the story later is introduced up front or foreshadowed in the Beginning.
Foreshadowing is an essential, yet often overlooked, skill that helps to make the scenes flow and the story feel seamless.
Just starting reading your blog in the last few weeks. Great post, thank you!
Foreshadowing works well in short stories. It takes more consistency in novels
great post as usual!
This is good advice, Martha. And I'm glad you suggested such small examples. It's easy to be too heavy handed with foreshadowing. That's where the art comes in, which calls for practice. Nice post, Martha.
Oh joy, I do believe I have achieved something at last. Thank you so much for this post, I needed the positive boost. Just when I was doubting my efforts I find your post. I am sure I have actually done this with my wip. Thank you Martha, your post has given me even more motivation to finish.