Final answer:
Suspense is the pleasurable anxiety or anticipation that readers experience during the unfolding plot of a story, created by the author's narrative techniques. These techniques include cliffhangers, character development, and careful pacing of the story's events. Understanding the structure and division of the story helps readers gain deeper insights into the plot and themes.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term "suspense" refers to the enjoyable anxiety or anticipation that a reader feels as they follow the plot of a story. This effect is created intentionally by the author's handling of narrative elements, including the sequence of events or the rising action leading to the climax. As the plot unfolds, the reader might feel a mixture of emotions such as anxiety, excitement, or curiosity, all of which contribute to the desire to continue reading and uncover the resolution.
In crafting suspense, authors may employ various techniques, such as ending chapters on cliffhangers, developing rich character arcs, or weaving intricate plots. This tactic is not only used to keep readers engaged but can also add depth and texture to the narrative. For instance, a masterful suspense writer will balance tension and release, guiding the reader through the journey of the characters and the narrative arc, from the initial conflict and rising action, to the climactic peak, and finally to the falling action where tensions dissolve.
Understanding why an author chooses to end chapters in a certain way or how they divide the story is crucial. This awareness can provide insights into the plot, character development, and the thematic depth of the story, enhancing the reader's engagement and experience with the text.