Structural Features: What is their effect on the reader?

Narrative Effects on the Reader

• Introduces or develops a character or plot, often changing the narrative pace
• Helps develop understanding of a character's feelings, thoughts, fears, self-esteem, and perspective
• Creates a sense of suspense, anxiety, or drama, leaving the reader with unanswered questions
• Leaves the reader satisfied or in a positive frame of mind, perhaps bringing relief from negative emotions

Narrative Techniques

• Flashback: revisits past events
• Flashforward: speculates about future events
• Non-linear structure: disrupts the chronological order of events
• Linear structure: follows a chronological order of events
• One-sentence paragraphs: creates a sense of drama or emphasis
• Foreshadowing: hints at future events
• Cliffhanger ending: leaves the reader in suspense
• Reflective/Moral ending: provides a conclusion or lesson
• Framed narrative: uses a narrative within a narrative

Narrative Structure

• Circular structure: returns to a previous point or theme
• Climax or Turning Point: creates a dramatic shift in the narrative
• Contrast: highlights differences between characters, events, or settings
• Time/ Focus/Location Shifts: changes the narrative's perspective or setting

Character Development

• Establishes a stronger, more personal connection with the reader
• Offers insight into a character's thoughts and emotions
• Introduces a new character, adding complexity to the narrative
• Develops the protagonist through relationships, dialogue, or encounters

Tense and Point of View

• Past tense: creates a natural distance from events
• Present tense: creates a dramatic effect, making the reader feel 'in the moment'
• Future tense: encourages speculation about future events
• 1st person narrator: provides a personal, introspective perspective
• 3rd person narrator: offers a more objective, detached viewpoint
• Discourse markers (time, place, general): signal changes in the narrative's focus or direction