Universal Principles of Storytelling for Designers

Literary Device

Foreshadowing

A warning or indication that something is about to happen.

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Foreshadowing serves as a fundamental technique, subtly hinting at future developments, thereby shaping the narrative’s trajectory and plot. In design narratives, foreshadowing takes on a pivotal role in unveiling the benefits and broad applicability of the design.

Foreshadowing is often used as an element of exposition, alluding to situations on the horizon. In fiction, especially in film and television, this technique is often called “planting and payoff,” where information is subtly exposed (planted) only for the payoff to be revealed later in the ...