Authors create parallel stories for several reasons, some of which you mentioned. Here's a breakdown of each option:
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To create mystery, tension, or surprise: This is a common reason. Parallel stories can interweave narratives in such a way that they build suspense and intrigue, revealing connections and surprises as the story progresses.
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To appeal to readers who enjoy different things: By incorporating parallel stories, authors can cater to diverse reader interests, offering various perspectives, genres, or themes within a single narrative.
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To support a certain mood in the story: Parallel narratives can contribute to the tone and atmosphere. Different stories can evoke contrasting emotions that enhance the overall mood of the narrative.
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To increase the length of the story: While this is a possibility, it's generally not the primary reason. Lengthening a story is usually a consequence of adding depth and complexity rather than a main goal.
In summary, the most compelling reasons include creating mystery, tension, and surprise (option 1), appealing to a wider audience (option 2), and supporting the mood (option 3). Increasing the length (option 4) is often more of a byproduct than an objective.