FORESHADOWING is a technique writer’s used to provide clues for the reader, so he/she can make predictions about what will come.
To FORESHADOW something means to give hints as to what will come later.
EXAMPLE
Ed has purchased an old home and he is rummaging through some boxes that were left in the attic. He comes across a key.
(This may foreshadow an event where Ed finds a door or a chest where he can use this key)
_____
Ed sees something shiny on the roof of this house, so he goes to get a ladder from the garage. He props it up against the house, takes three steps up the ladder, and has a panic attack.
(This may foreshadow an event where Ed is going to have to get over his fear of heights later in the story)
_____
The lights continue to flicker on an off during Ed’s first night in the house. He examines the fuse box and notices that it is very old and dusty.
(This may foreshadow an event where the lights permantely shut off – probably during a scene of great intensity)
