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Writing Compelling Endings

  • Apr 12
  • 3 min read

Greetings, everyone, from Ink Blots! Today, I want to delve into the artistry involved in crafting an ending that compels readers to sit back and reflect on what they just read. When done correctly, an ending has the power to elevate an entire piece. After all, no one has ever said, "That was a great book, but I sure didn't like the way it ended!" Right? Let's get into it.


One of the very gratifying parts of a good ending is the tying up of plot points. As a writer, you want to be certain that the significant lines of your narrative are addressed. This does not imply that every question must find an answer, but it does mean that the story's vital conflicts must see a resolution. Consider how you might accomplish this closure while also maintaining enough intrigue to keep the reader interested in whatever might happen next.


A story's ending is often its most emotional part. And whether that emotion is joy, sorrow, rage, or hope, connecting with your readers' feelings, in the end, can make the most indelible impression. Think about the emotional journey your characters have taken. Think about how their experiences might resonate with your audience. Sometimes, a bittersweet ending can be the most effective. It serves to remind the audience of all life's many splendid yet complex and not always happy turns.



Returning to an earlier theme or symbol can create a sense of wholeness in your story. This technique, often referred to as a "circular ending," can reinforce your story's message or theme. It gives readers the satisfaction of seeing how far the characters have come and how their experiences have shaped them.


At times, the most effective conclusions are those that leave all the loose ends untied. They do not provide all the answers. In fact, they leave the reader with questions that must not only be considered but also be reflected upon long after the reading is finished. Thus, a concluding section can achieve much more by questioning than by answering.


Your last sentence is crucial. It’s the final impression you leave on your readers, so make it count! A strong final line can be poignant, shocking, or even humorous, depending on the tone of your piece. Consider how you want your readers to feel as they close the book or finish the article.


Placing hints throughout your narrative can make the conclusion feel earned. When the readers can look back and see the signs that signaled the conclusion when they get to the conclusion, it creates a satisfying “aha!” moment. Just be sure to place the signs along the way in a way that doesn’t feel forced.



Your conclusion should feel right for your characters and the journeys they have taken. Readers can often spot an ending that feels forced or contrived, and such an ending can break the spell of your narrative. If you stay true to the essence of your characters and the journeys they have taken, your conclusion will resonate with truth and authenticity.


Getting to the compelling ending is Both an art and a craft, writing a compelling ending demands careful consideration of not only your characters and themes but also the emotional journey you’ve taken your readers on. If your ending is powerful, it can haunt the minds of your audience, a siren song beckoning them to return to your work time and again. So as you pen those final lines, remember: you have the impact! So, whats your favorite ending in either book or movie? What other ideas you can think of for a compelling ending? Have you ever read or seen an ending that you didn't like? leave a comment below and lets get the conversation going as always thank you for reading and Be Creative!

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