A literary device where hints or clues about future events are planted early in a narrative. This technique creates suspense, builds anticipation, and provides structural unity by connecting early details to later developments.
From 'fore' (before) and 'shadow' (a dark image cast by an object blocking light). The metaphor suggests that future events cast their 'shadows' backward into earlier parts of the story, allowing observant readers to glimpse what's coming.
Foreshadowing turns readers into detectives, searching for clues hidden in plain sight! Hitchcock was a master—in 'Psycho,' he plants visual hints about Norman Bates' split personality throughout the film, but they only become obvious on second viewing when you know what to look for.
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