Literary Signposts and Techniques

Front

Aha Moment (Definition)

Back

the character realizes something that changes his actions or understanding of others, or the world around him. 'Suddenly I understood', 'in an instant I knew'

Front

Memory Moment (Definition)

Back

A remembrance by a character that interrupts the story, a flashback.

Front

Contrasts and Contradictions (Definition)

Back

A change in a character's action, or a difference from what the reader expects the character to do based upon his previous behavior in the story.

Front

Tough Questions (Definition)

Back

Questions a character raises that reveal his or her inner struggles to the reader (internal conflict) like 'Why is life so hard?' 'Will my parents ever show me love?' 'I wonder if Mom ever stood outside my door like that'

Front

Words of the Wiser (Definition)

Back

Life advice given to a character from another character to help the main character solve his problem.

Front

Again and Again (Definition)

Back

A word, phrase, image, or behavior that is repeated throughout the story.

Front

Memory Moment (Anchor Q)

Back

What does this flashback reveal about the character? How might this be important to the story?

Front

Again and Again (Anchor Q)

Back

Why does this keep coming up? What is the author trying to show the reader by repeating this?

Front

Words of the Wiser (Anchor Q)

Back

What is the life lesson? Why is this advice important? How might it affect the character?

Front

Tough Questions (Anchor Q)

Back

How is this wondering important to the story? What does the wondering reveal about the character?