Which technique is particularly important for building suspense in a narrative?

Foreshadowing is a crucial technique for building suspense in a narrative because it provides hints or clues about future events, creating a sense of anticipation and tension in the reader. By subtly suggesting what might happen later in the story, the author can engage the reader’s curiosity and emotions, prompting them to ponder the potential outcomes and consequences. This interplay between what is revealed and what remains unknown can keep readers on edge, making them eager to continue reading to uncover how the foreshadowed events will unfold.

While dialogue can develop characters and imagery can enhance the setting and atmosphere, they do not inherently contain the element of impending events. Flashbacks, although useful for providing background or context, may actually disrupt the narrative flow and reduce suspense by revealing past events that the audience would otherwise be left guessing about. Thus, foreshadowing stands out as the technique most directly linked to the creation of suspense.