A genre is a category of writing or other creative work that can be identified by its structure, content, and style.
Examples of Fiction Subgenres:
- Fantasy
- Science Fiction
- Mystery
- Horror
- Romance
- Historical Fiction
- Literary Fiction
- Thriller/Suspense
- Young Adult (YA)
- Magical Realism
Three Narrative Elements All Subgenres of Fiction Share:
- Characters: Each subgenre includes characters that drive the plot and interact with the story world.
- Setting: All fiction subgenres establish a specific time and place that influences the narrative and characters' actions.
- Plot: Every subgenre has a structured plot that consists of conflicts, rising action, climax, and resolution.
A flashback is an interruption in a narrative that gives readers information about something that happened at an earlier time.
How a Writer Could Use a Flashback to Create Tension in a Narrative:
A writer can use a flashback to reveal critical backstory or traumatic events that affect a character's current behavior or decision-making process. By unveiling past experiences during moments of suspense or conflict, the writer can create dramatic irony; readers may know something the characters do not. For example, if a character is faced with a dangerous situation, a flashback to a previous experience where they felt powerless could heighten the tension, as readers understand the stakes involved. This technique can also provide insight into a character's motivations, fears, or unresolved issues, further amplifying the tension in the present narrative.