A guide to endings

The ending of a story is like the final bow in a performance – it needs to be graceful, memorable, and leave the audience satisfied. It’s not just about concluding the plot; it’s about resonating with readers, leaving them something to ponder, and wrapping up the narrative in a way that feels complete. This guide will delve into the art of writing endings, shedding light on different aspects, including some that will be further explored in dedicated articles.

What makes a good ending?

A good ending does more than just finish the story. It fulfils promises, resonates with the theme, and provides a satisfying closure to characters’ arcs. It should feel inevitable yet surprising, logical but not predictable. Here’s what you should aim for:

1. Resonance with the beginning

Your ending should mirror or contrast the beginning to bring the story full circle. If you started with a question, the ending might provide an answer or a new perspective.

2. Emotional satisfaction

The readers must feel that the ending is earned, not forced. It should evoke emotions that align with the story’s theme and characters’ journeys.

3. Thematic consistency

Your ending must be consistent with the themes you’ve explored throughout the story. It’s the final note in your thematic symphony, and it must ring true.

Types of endings

Endings come in various flavours. Here are a few:

1. Resolved Ending: All loose ends are tied up, and questions are answered.
2. Open Ending: Some questions are left unanswered, inviting readers to think or interpret.
3. Twist Ending: A surprise that reinterprets the whole story.
4. Circular Ending: The story ends where it began, often with a new understanding.

Common pitfalls to avoid

• Rushing the ending: Don’t sprint to the finish line; give the ending the space it needs.
• Forced resolutions: Avoid contrived solutions that don’t fit the story’s logic.
• Inconsistency with characters or themes: Stay true to what you’ve established.

More focused explorations

This guide provides a bird’s-eye view of writing endings, but there are many nuances and specific techniques to explore:

1. How to Write Strong Endings: Dive into strategies to make your ending impactful.
2. How to Pay Off Your Hook Effectively: Learn to resolve your central premise satisfyingly.
3. Excellent Closing/Final Lines: Understand what makes a last line resonate.
4. 9 Reasons Why Your Ending Doesn’t Work: Identify common mistakes.
5. 10 Questions to Ask About Your Ending: Evaluate your conclusion.
6. When Should You Use an Epilogue?: Know when an epilogue is the right choice.

A graceful farewell

Writing an ending is like saying goodbye – it should feel heartfelt, satisfying, and leave a lasting impression. Consider it a final handshake with your reader, firm and warm, promising that the time spent in your story’s world was worthwhile. Whether it’s a happily ever after, a bittersweet farewell, or a thought-provoking cliffhanger, your ending should be the cherry on top of your narrative sundae.

Dive in to more resources

• How to write the beginning of the ending
• How to write strong endings
• How to pay off your hook effectively
• Excellent closing/final lines
• 9 reasons your ending doesn't work
• 10 questions to ask about your ending
• When should you use an epilogue?

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