We have all experienced it, reaching the end of a book and feeling let down or unsatisfied, by a lazy or boring ending. As a reader you are left wondering how such a promising plot could fall like that at the finish line.
This is because endings are more than just the conclusion of the story; they are also vital in shaping its message and impact. They reinforce themes, highlight the character development, and most importantly, shape reader satisfaction. So here, let’s consider the crucial role of endings in storytelling and their potential effects on us as readers.
If you are reading a gripping novel and find the end leaves you bored, cold or confused; you will feel cheated and resentful of the author. as if you had invested hours climbing a mountain, only for the peak to suddenly disappear or seem out of reach.
You would be left with an unsatisfied feeling where the unresolved ending will tarnish your impression of the story as a whole. There is a balance to be struck with regard to how a book ends, and this will depend somewhat on genre.
Some authors argue that unpredictability adds intrigue but while an unexpected twist can be exciting, and that if you veer too far towards a predictable ending you risk losing credibility. They argue that while the readers need closure and they need their emotional investment rewarded with an ending that ties up loose ends and makes sense within the context of the story, a slight unexpected twist can make the ending more interesting.
Others veer towards a more predictable ending that the readers envisage and expect. The argument here is that the reader's reward is that things turn out the way they should, the protagonist is successful and the obstacles they encountered are overcome. This style of resolution avoids any chance of an unresolved ending.
However, unresolved endings can be powerful if used correctly. Such endings leave room for interpretation and allow readers to ponder various possibilities long after they’ve finished the book. Here, moderation is key because too many unanswered questions can lead to frustration amongst readers rather than the intrigue the author is trying to achieve.
All in all, bear in mind that as an author and storyteller, your role is not just to create compelling characters and gripping stories, it is also about delivering an ending that fulfills your promise to your readers.
You want to provide the resolution without compromise, surprise within reason or thought-provoking ambiguity all of which should complement the strength of your story and reflect the readers' expectations within you genre. Always respect your reader.
Val Penny
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