FLASHFORWARDS Meaning and
Definition
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Flashforwards are narrative techniques often used in literature, film, or television, where the sequence of events temporarily shifts from the present or known timeframe to a future period. In this technique, the author or creator provides glimpses or hints of what will or may happen in the future, disrupting the chronological flow of the story. The primary purpose of flashforwards is to create suspense, anticipation, or to foreshadow significant events or outcomes that will shape the narrative trajectory.
Unlike flashbacks, which depict past events, flashforwards transport the audience or readers ahead in time, offering a brief preview of what is to come. These glimpses can serve various functions, including offering a sense of mystery, raising questions, or deepening a character's development by showing their future actions or circumstances. By providing glimpses into the future, flashforwards can build anticipation or generate an atmosphere of suspense, leaving audiences curious about how characters will reach those points depicted.
Flashforwards emphasize the non-linear aspect of storytelling and can be used as effective tools to engage the readers or viewers on a deeper level. By transcending traditional storytelling chronology, these narrative devices enable creators to introduce new or unexpected story elements, contributing to the overall structure and complexity of the work. Through these brief temporal leaps, flashforwards enrich the narrative and immerse audiences in complex, multi-layered storylines.
Etymology of FLASHFORWARDS
The word "flashforward" combines the noun "flash" and the verb "forward", creating a compound word to describe a literary or cinematic technique.
"Flash" originates from the early 17th century, derived from the Dutch word "flitsen" meaning "to blink or flutter". Later, it was influenced by the Middle English word "flaschen" meaning "splash or flare up". The term "flash" is often associated with something quick, sudden, or brief.
The word "forward" dates back to the Old English period, derived from the Proto-Germanic word "furþraz" meaning "forth" or "forward". It has remained relatively unchanged in meaning and usage throughout history.
When combined, "flash" and "forward" create the compound word "flashforward", referring to a narrative technique where the sequence of events in a story jumps ahead to future events before returning to the present or past.
