blackbird by Gina Frisken

How would Hitchcock set the scene before Klaus kills his wife and children?

 

The reader knows Rabe is going to kill his family from O’Farrell’s report and the news article.

 

Having established the date of the murder-suicide (October 11), I describe the place where the scene is set: the Rabe flat.

 

I indicate who is involved and like Hitchcock, I keep my audience informed.

 

I focus on Klaus and Heike, but from a distance, like a cinematic medium shot. I alternate my portrayals between Klaus and Heike and draw attention to her face, just as a viewer sees a close-up. I describe all those involved to create proximity not only to the victims, but also the fatal event.

 

Finally, I end this tale before Klaus pulls the trigger.

 

Follow me again to klaus & heike’s tale.