Flashing Arrow

Disciplines > Storytelling > Story devices > Flashinatteg Arrow

Description | Example | Discussion | See also

Description

The 'flashing arrow' is an obvious indicator that draws the attention of even the most distracted of the audience towards something that is important for them to 'notice'.

A typical flashing arrow is the camera dwelling on something that appears relatively insignificant.

Sound may also be used, with dramatic music indicating special circumstances.

Example

A man looks at a woman, the woman looks back. Romantic music plays. (looks like love!)

The camera pans down to a suspect's shoes which seem to have red mud on them, just like that at the murder site.

Discussion

Done subtly, the flashing arrow helps the reader follow the plot and gives them some hints to keep them guessing (flashing arrows can be Red Herrings too).

Done without subtly, the flashing arrow is so obvious as to be almost comical. This happens in poorly-made dramas and parodies.