How to write the beginning of the ending
The beginning of the ending is the part in your story where the final act takes off. It's like the last lap of a race where the finish line is in sight, but there are still a few twists and turns to navigate. Here's a guide to help you write that crucial part of your story where the beginning of the ending unfolds.
Recognise the shift
The beginning of the ending is where the story starts to shift towards its conclusion. This isn't just a continuation of the middle; it's a turning point that sets the stage for the final showdown or resolution.
Recognise the signs:
- Main conflicts escalate
- Characters face their deepest fears or challenges
- Pacing may quicken
Set up the stakes: High or low, make them clear
At this stage in the story, the stakes should be evident. Whether it's life and death or love and loss, make sure the reader knows what's on the line.
Example of what to do:
If your story is about a young detective solving a mystery, this might be the moment when they discover a crucial clue leading to the criminal.
How to do it: Highlight the importance of the upcoming events and clarify what's at risk.
Emphasise character growth: Show the evolution
By the time you're writing the beginning of the ending, your characters should have evolved. Show how they have changed and are ready (or not so ready) to face the final challenges.
Example of what to do:
In a romance novel, this could be where one of the main characters finally acknowledges their feelings for the other.
How to do it: Reflect on how your characters have grown and integrate this into the narrative.
Increase tension and conflict
The beginning of the ending should build tension as it leads to the climax. Make sure the conflicts are coming to a head, and the characters are being pushed to their limits.
Example of what to do:
In a thriller, this might be the moment when the protagonist realises who the antagonist truly is.
How to do it: Heighten the drama, make the conflicts more intense, and leave the reader on the edge of their seat.
Don't give it all away
While you're setting up the end, don't reveal all your secrets. Maintain some mystery that will keep the reader engaged.
Example of what to do:
Tease the reader with partial information or new questions that will be answered in the climax.
How to do it: Be careful with your revelations, giving enough to intrigue but not so much that you take away the suspense.
A farewell to the middle: Transition gracefully
Ensure there's a clear transition from the middle of your story to the beginning of the end. It's like stepping into a new room – there should be a threshold.
Example of what to do:
Use a significant event or decision that clearly signals the transition into the final act.
How to do it: Consider using a chapter break or a definitive scene that marks the change.
Embrace the inevitable: The end is nigh
When writing the beginning of the ending, embrace the fact that the story is winding down. Prepare the reader for what's coming without rushing it.
Example of what to do:
Gradually resolve secondary plots or questions to focus on the main storyline.
How to do it: Balance the pacing so that it feels like a natural progression towards the end.
The last stretch: Beginning the end with finesse
Writing the beginning of the ending is a delicate task. It requires a sense of timing, an understanding of the story's trajectory, and careful handling of both plot and characters. It's the part where all the threads start to pull together, ready to be tied up in a satisfying conclusion.
