A narrative structure, particularly common in suspense or thriller genres, relies on strategically withholding information to maintain reader engagement. This technique often centers around a critical question or a series of unresolved events, driving the narrative forward. For example, a story might introduce a mysterious disappearance, leaving the audience to wonder about the missing person’s fate and motivating them to continue reading.
This approach to storytelling leverages the inherent human desire for resolution and understanding. By creating narrative tension and anticipation, authors can effectively capture audience attention and deepen emotional investment in the story’s outcome. Historically, this technique can be traced back to ancient oral storytelling traditions and continues to be a powerful tool for contemporary writers across various media, including novels, films, and video games.
