Suspense refers to the setting of some unknown and uncertain plots or events in narrative works such as literature, movies, and dramas, to arouse the curiosity and tension of readers or audiences, so that they have expectations and concerns about the development and ending of the story. In suspense, the author stimulates the curiosity and anticipation of the reader or viewer by deliberately retaining key information, setting up a mystery, or creating tension. As the story develops, suspense creates a strong sense of speculation and desire to know the outcome of the next episode, enhancing its engagement and immersion.
Suspense has several roles in the narrative:
1.Grab the reader's or viewer's attention: Suspense can make the reader or viewer take a keen interest in the story and can't wait to know what happens next.
2.Increase the tension and drama of the story: Suspense can make the story more gripping and allow the reader or viewer to experience the development of the story in a tense atmosphere.
3.Move the story forward: Suspense can be the driving force behind the story, prompting the characters to take action and solve problems, which in turn moves the story forward.
4.Shaping the character image: By setting up suspense, the author can show the character's coping skills and personality traits in the face of difficult situations.
5.Enrich the layers of the story: Suspense can add depth and complexity to the story, giving the reader or viewer a deeper understanding of the story.
Examples: 1. In the movie "Inception", the whole story revolves around a suspense: can the protagonist successfully complete the mission and return to the real world? This suspense is present throughout, keeping the audience on a high level of tension and attention at all times.
2. In Denis Villeneuve's films, you can often see the effective use of suspense, such as the movie "Arrival", the film begins with the construction of the grand suspense of the alien spaceship landing on Earth, and the audience follows the protagonist to gradually explore the mystery of the language of the alien creatures and the hidden intentions behind them, and the whole process is full of tension and surprise.
Overall, suspense is an important narrative technique that can make a story more engaging and enhance the reading or ** experience of the reader or viewer.