9 reasons why your ending doesn't work
Crafting the perfect conclusion is a delicate dance, and one misstep can leave readers feeling unsatisfied. Here's a look at nine reasons your ending might not be hitting the mark, and what you can do to fix it.
1. It's too predictable
There's comfort in the familiar, but if readers can see the ending from a mile away, the payoff loses its punch.
Solution
Introduce a twist or turn that makes sense within the story but isn't overly telegraphed. Keep readers on their toes by sprinkling in red herrings or misdirection.
2. It's too abrupt
A rushed ending feels like someone yanking the tablecloth from under the feast. Readers need time to digest what's happened.
Solution
Spend time tying up loose threads, and allow for a denouement that gives readers a chance to catch their breath.
3. Loose ends are left untied
Speaking of threads, leaving key questions unanswered (unless you're intentionally creating ambiguity) can be maddening for readers.
Solution
Review your manuscript and make sure that all crucial questions are answered and plot points resolved.
4. It's inconsistent with the story
A happy ending in a dark and gritty tale or a tragic ending in a light-hearted romp can feel jarring.
Solution
Ensure that the tone, theme, and character arcs align with how the story concludes.
5. Characters act out of character
If a character suddenly behaves in a way that's contrary to their established nature, it can break readers' trust.
Solution
Stay true to your characters. If they need to act in a new way, make sure that change is earned and foreshadowed.
6. It's overly sentimental or cheesy
Too much sentimentality can turn a powerful ending into a Hallmark card.
Solution
Balance emotion with restraint. Show, don't tell, the emotional impact and let readers feel it for themselves.
7. There's too much exposition
An ending that's all tell and no show can feel like a lecture.
Solution
Use action, dialogue, and imagery to convey the conclusion rather than relying on exposition.
8. It lacks thematic resonance
A powerful ending often connects back to the story's core themes.
Solution
Reflect on your story's central message or question, and make sure that the ending speaks to it.
9. It doesn't satisfy the central conflict
Every story has a central conflict, and the ending must address it, whether it's resolved or left intentionally ambiguous.
Solution
Make sure that the resolution (or deliberate lack thereof) aligns with the story's central conflict and the promises made to the reader.
Wrap up: The elusive art of satisfying endings
Crafting an ending that leaves readers content, surprised, or reflective (or all three!) is no easy task. Consider these nine common pitfalls, and you'll be well on your way to writing an ending that doesn't just work – it shines.
