What does foreshadowing achieve in a narrative?

Foreshadowing plays a crucial role in a narrative by hinting at future events, which can effectively build suspense and anticipation for the reader. This technique allows the author to subtly suggest what might happen later in the story without revealing explicit details. By planting these hints, the reader becomes more engaged and intrigued, eager to see how the narrative will unfold and whether their predictions will come true. This anticipation can enhance the emotional impact of key events when they do eventually occur, as readers have had time to contemplate their potential significance. Thus, foreshadowing enriches the storytelling experience and maintains the audience's interest throughout the narrative.