A loaded gun can be used to introduce conflict. If two characters are in a room and one discovers the other has a loaded gun, it immediately creates a power imbalance and a source of conflict. This can be the starting point for a tense and engaging short story plot.
It can also be used to resolve a plot. In some short fiction, the loaded gun might be used to defeat the villain at the end. For example, in a detective short story, the detective might use a loaded gun to arrest or subdue the criminal, bringing the story to a satisfying conclusion.
A loaded gun in short fiction can often symbolize danger or the potential for violence. It creates an immediate sense of threat. For example, in some crime short stories, the presence of a loaded gun might foreshadow a murder or a hold - up.
Amnesia is often used to create mystery. For example, in a detective story, when a witness has amnesia, it makes the detective's job harder and adds suspense as they try to help the witness regain their memory to solve the case.
One way is through the creation of elixirs. In some novels, an alchemist creates a special elixir that can grant immortality or superhuman abilities. This becomes the center of the plot as different characters fight to obtain it.
Lingerie can be used as a plot device by creating a situation of anticipation. For example, a character is waiting to see their partner's reaction to a new lingerie set, which builds tension. It can also be used for misdirection. Maybe a character assumes another's intentions wrongly based on their lingerie.
Braces can be used to show a character's insecurities. For instance, a girl in a young adult novel might avoid social situations because she's embarrassed about her braces. This drives her character arc as she overcomes this insecurity.
A mask can be used to create mystery. If a character is always wearing a mask, the readers will be curious about what's beneath it. This can drive the plot forward as the story unfolds to reveal the truth about the masked character.
Food can be poisoned to kill or incapacitate a character, which is a simple yet effective plot device. For example, in many classic crime stories, the poisoned cup of tea or a spiked dish is a common trope.
Visine could be used as a poison in a mystery story. A character might put Visine in someone's drink, and the victim would start showing strange symptoms like excessive tearing, blurred vision, and nausea. This would then set off a chain of events where the detective has to figure out what's wrong with the victim and ultimately discover the use of Visine as the cause.
The gun used in Pulp Fiction was quite important to the plot. It was involved in many of the crucial and tense moments in the movie. For instance, when the characters were in dangerous situations or making power plays, the gun was often present. It was a tool that the characters used to assert their dominance or to protect themselves. Without the presence of this gun, some of the key plot developments and the overall atmosphere of danger and suspense would not have been as effective.
It can create mystery. For example, if a character starts to have strange feelings towards a new acquaintance who looks like their parent, it can lead the reader to wonder what's going on. This draws the reader in.