What does "suspense" in literature refer to?

In literature, "suspense" refers to a feeling of excitement or anticipation that keeps readers engaged and eager to discover what will happen next. This emotional response is often created through uncertainty regarding the outcomes of conflicts and the fates of characters. Writers use suspense to build tension, typically intensifying the stakes of the narrative through plot twists, impending danger, or unanswered questions. As the narrative progresses and the tension escalates, readers find themselves invested in the resolution of conflicts, which enhances their reading experience. Thus, identifying suspense as a feeling of excitement or anticipation captures its essence in engaging the audience in a compelling way.