The Monkey's Paw is a classic horror short story written by WW Jacobs. One of the most notable literary devices used throughout the text is foreshadowing. Foreshadowing is a technique in which an author hints at events or outcomes that will occur later in the story. In The Monkey's Paw, foreshadowing is used repeatedly to build suspense and create a sense of impending doom. An example of foreshadowing occurs when the first man's third wish is mentioned. This essay will explore how this specific wish serves as an example of foreshadowing, using evidence from the text to support this interpretation. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay The First Man's Third Wish is a crucial moment in the story, as it sets the stage for the tragic events that follow. When the monkey's paw is presented to the White family, they are told that it grants its owner three wishes. Mr. White, the protagonist, is initially skeptical of the paw's powers but ultimately decides to make a wish. He wants two hundred pounds, which he believes will solve his financial problems. At first, it seems that Mr. White's wish has come true. The next day, the family learned that their son, Herbert, had been killed in a tragic workplace accident. As they mourn their loss, they are visited by a representative of Herbert's employer, who informs them that they will receive a sum of two hundred pounds as compensation. It is at this point that the foreshadowing of the first man's third wish becomes evident. The mention of the first man's third wish before Mr. White makes his own wish is a clever foreshadowing technique used by Jacobs. This alludes to the potential consequences of a wish made with the monkey's paw. By introducing the idea of ​​a third wish before Mr. White's is revealed, the author creates a feeling of foreboding and unease in the reader's mind. The reader becomes aware that there may be unintended consequences or a dark twist to Mr. White's wish. This foreshadowing is further reinforced by the events that follow Mr. White's wish. The two hundred pounds the family receives as compensation for Herbert's death can be seen as a twisted fulfillment of Mr. White's wish. Although he received the desired amount of money, it came at the cost of his son's life. This tragic outcome highlights the danger of tampering with destiny and serves as a warning about the consequences of greed and abuse of power. In addition to the foreshadowing of the first man's third wish, there are other examples of foreshadowing throughout the story. For example, when the White family first receives the monkey's paw, Sergeant Major Morris, who draws their attention to the paw, warns them of its power. It tells the story of the previous owner, who used his three wishes and suffered greatly as a result. This foreshadows the potential danger and tragedy that awaits White if he chooses to use the paw. Additionally, the description of the monkey's paw itself is another example of foreshadowing. The paw is described as "mummified" and "shrivelled", suggesting that it holds a dark and sinister power. This description creates a sense of unease and sets the stage for the supernatural events that will unfold later in the story. Keep in mind: this is just a sample. Get a personalized article from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay In conclusion,.