Imagine you’ve been at sea for days, sailing and sailing. It’s been an adventure, for sure, but you’re ready to plant your feet again on dry land. Finally, you make out the shore, in the distance; soon you will arrive—you’re just not there quite yet. For some narrative writers, spotting dry land is what the experience of finally reaching the conclusion of their narrative is like. The hard, creative work you’ve put in so far has got you to this exciting milestone, but you still have one section left to go. While it may seem like you’ve told most of your story and now you can kick back, it’s important to stay focused. A good conclusion can leave readers feeling gratified, as well as giving them a lot to reflect on. However, a conclusion that lacks energy or logic can frustrate and disappoint readers. Writing an Effective Conclusion The conclusion is the story’s resolution. It ties up loose ends and tells how the main character ultimately handles their problem. The conclusion also conveys what characters learned from their experience. Before narrative writers begin their conclusion, they reflect on the main character’s conflict and the most important events in the plot. As part of that process, writers often consider these questions: What loose ends might readers wonder about? Are there unanswered questions I need to answer? How can I show how the conflict has changed my main character?

Answer 1

Crafting an effective conclusion is indeed a crucial part of storytelling, and it serves as the final opportunity for writers to resonate with their readers. Here are some strategies to consider when writing the conclusion of your narrative:

1. Resolution of Conflicts: Clearly articulate how the main character confronts and resolves their central conflict. This could be a physical confrontation, a significant choice, or an emotional realization. Ensure that this resolution feels earned and reflects the journey the character has taken.

2. Address Loose Ends: Revisit any questions or plot threads that may have been left dangling throughout the narrative. Provide answers or hints that clarify these aspects, reinforcing the reader’s understanding of the story.

3. Character Growth: Highlight how the experiences throughout the narrative have transformed the main character. This could be shown through their actions, reflections, or dialogue in the conclusion. Emphasize what they have learned and how they have changed as a result of their journey.

4. Themes and Takeaways: Reflect on the overarching themes of your narrative. Consider what message or insight you want your readers to take away from the story. A powerful conclusion often encapsulates this theme, leaving the reader with something meaningful to ponder.

5. Imagery and Language: Use evocative language and vivid imagery to create a memorable ending. The conclusion should evoke emotion, drawing readers back into the world you’ve created and reinforcing their connection to the characters.

6. Full Circle Ending: Consider returning to an image, idea, or line from the beginning of your narrative. This creates a sense of closure and can provide a satisfying sense of completeness for the reader.

7. Open-Ended Possibilities: While tying up the main narrative threads is essential, you may also choose to leave certain aspects open to interpretation. This invites readers to think beyond the pages of your story, allowing their imaginations to fill in the gaps.

8. Final Thoughts: End on a strong note, whether it’s a poignant statement, a call to action, or an insightful remark from your main character. This leaves the reader with a lasting impression of your narrative.

By integrating these elements, you can create a conclusion that is not only satisfying and logical but also resonates with your readers long after they’ve turned the last page. With careful consideration and creativity, your conclusion can become a powerful testament to the journey your characters have undertaken.