What is Flashforward (prolepsis)?
A flashforward (prolepsis) is a narrative jump that shows events that will happen later in the story. It provides a glimpse of the future to create suspense, set stakes, or shape reader expectations.
A flashforward—also called prolepsis—is when a story briefly or fully moves ahead in time to depict scenes that occur later than the main narrative's present. Unlike foreshadowing, which hints at what might happen, a flashforward actually presents a future moment: it can be a single image, a short paragraph, or an entire chapter. In romance, flashforwards often reveal future relationship milestones (a wedding, a breakup, an older version of the protagonists) to add dramatic irony, emotional weight, or urgency to present actions. Flashforwards can be literal future scenes, dreamlike visions, or unreliable glimpses used for misdirection.
Usage example
They kissed under the hospital lights—no, wait. Three years from now, the same two people would be laughing on a rooftop, rain soaking their hair while a tiny, stubborn plant grew on the windowsill. The choice to stay or run would decide which of those nights was theirs.
Practical application
Flashforwards matter because they shape how readers interpret present moments. Used well, they increase tension (readers wonder how the story reaches that future), highlight theme (showing the long-term consequences of choices), and create emotional resonance by letting readers imagine a payoff. In interactive romance like Endless Romance, flashforwards can be especially powerful: you can teaser multiple possible futures to motivate choices, reveal the emotional stakes of different branches, or present an epilogue option after a major decision. Be careful not to undermine suspense by revealing too much; use them to entice and guide player choices rather than remove uncertainty.
FAQ
How is a flashforward different from foreshadowing?
Foreshadowing hints at future events without showing them. A flashforward explicitly depicts a future moment. Both build expectation, but flashforwards give readers a concrete glimpse rather than a subtle clue.
Can a story have multiple flashforwards?
Yes. Multiple flashforwards can show different possible outcomes, highlight parallel timelines, or punctuate emotional beats. In interactive stories, they can map to branching paths—but use them sparingly so each reveal maintains impact.
Should I avoid flashforwards because they spoil the ending?
Not necessarily. A thoughtfully placed flashforward can heighten suspense by posing the question of how the characters will reach that future. If you reveal too much too early, though, it can reduce curiosity—so balance revelation with mystery and emotional stakes.