A flashback is a sudden and vivid recollection of a past event, often triggered by a specific cue or stimulus. This memory can feel as if the individual is reliving the experience, complete with emotions and sensory details. Flashbacks are commonly associated with psychological conditions like PTSD but can also occur in everyday life as a way to recall significant moments. In literature and film, flashbacks are used as a narrative technique to provide background information or context about characters and events. This storytelling method allows the audience to gain deeper insights into a character's motivations and experiences, enhancing the overall understanding of the plot.