Early Signs of Danger:
* The Mysterious Sickness: The novel starts with the narrator, Ann Burden, noticing a strange sickness affecting the animals and birds. This foreshadows the nuclear holocaust that wipes out most of humanity.
* John's Obsession with Survival: John Burden, Ann's father, is obsessed with preparing for an unknown disaster. He builds an elaborate underground shelter, stockpiles food, and insists on wearing a gas mask. This foreshadows his desire to protect himself and his daughter at all costs.
* The "Atomic" Talk: While it's not explicit, John's frequent mention of "atomic" bombs and radiation is a clear indication that the world is on the verge of a nuclear war.
Looming Presence of Danger:
* The Silence: The oppressive silence and lack of human activity after the bombs fall are a constant reminder of the destruction. It foreshadows the loneliness and isolation Ann will face.
* The "No Go" Zones: John's warnings about "no go" zones beyond their farm, filled with radiation and "poison," foreshadow the danger lurking in the world outside.
* The "Strange" People: Ann's encounters with "strange" people (the "mutant" boys) near the farm hint at the dangers of venturing out and the potential consequences of radiation.
Developments in the Relationship:
* The "Foreign" Feeling: Ann feels a sense of "foreignness" when she first encounters Caleb. This suggests an eventual conflict or tension in their relationship.
* Caleb's Aggressive Behavior: Caleb's impulsive actions and his tendency to dominate are foreshadowed early on, hinting at his potential for violence and controlling behavior.
* Caleb's "Godly" Attitude: Caleb's belief in his own righteousness and his attempts to impose his will on others foreshadow the problems that will arise from his self-righteousness and ambition.
The Overall Tone of the Story:
* The Sense of Unease: The overall tone of the novel is one of foreboding and unease. The reader is constantly aware of the potential danger and the fragile nature of the situation, creating a sense of dread and anticipation.
These are just some examples of foreshadowing in "Z for Zachariah." The novel is carefully crafted to build suspense and keep the reader guessing about what will happen next. It's worth reading the novel carefully to notice the subtle clues that O'Brien provides, which add depth and complexity to the story.