In writing a one page synopsis for an editor/agent how would you deal with a very surprising and shocking twist at the end of a novel? Revealing the twist in the plot synopsis (which I presume you must?) will change the perception of all that came before it for the prospective editor/agent. Does it matter?
I think I understand, Robin. You're right, it is impossible to read any book (or watch any film - something which seems to happen to me a lot) through the same eyes if you already know what happens at the end.
However, when submitting to an agent or indy publisher, a synopsis is only part of the package. It's generally the last thing they look at, after the covering letter and your first three chapters. If your MS extract piques their interest sufficiently only then they would typically look at the synopsis. And the main things your synopsis needs to show is a credible story arc and a satisfying ending. It doesn't need to detail every twist and turn in the plot, which anyway is often impossible in the word count permitted. And, to answer your question directly, I'd also suggest it doesn't need to "give away" the ending as long as it does make clear that there is an important twist at the end.
Something else to remember that might be helpful is that agents are reading your book with two hats on, so to speak. One is simply as a reader (do I enjoy this book?) but the other is as a professional (is this book saleable? etc). Successful concealment of plot twists from the first is fairly fundamental to someone's enjoyment as a reader. However a professional will be doing a number of other things, including, as Adrian says, looking to see how well / if at all you've foreshadowed what is to come at the end.
In short, I really wouldn't stress about it too much. Honestly!
Thanks for replying Adrian, but I think you've misunderstood my question. Or maybe I have phrased it wrongly.
My question is not concerned with my novel (I believe all your useful advice is well-catered for).
My question is directed at my plot synopsis which, if read first (am I wrong in presuming editors/agents read the synopsis first?), imparts information (a very big 'spoiler') which will necesarily change the way in which the novel is perceived during the actual reading.
It matters a great deal. Also, it's essential that the outcome is credible.
Your opening chapter should hint at events that are likely to happen throughout the novel. The opening pages should also hint at the protagonist's role throughout your novel.
What does he/she want? How is he/she going to go about achieving their aims?
Obviously all this must be done without spilling the beans.
As the plot and storyline unravel there will be loose ends that need to be resolved. The most important loose ends at the end of the novel.
Do not spring surprises on the reader in the ending, unless, you have left a trail of clues.
In a WhoDunnit novel, its fair game to say the Butler committed the murder, but if you left no clues as to the Butler's guilt, then the reader will feel cheated.
Part of the ending should show whether the protagonist failed to achieve their aims, was partially successful, or whether they completely realised their ambitions.
Endings of novels should also relate to things mentioned in the first chapter, possibly including one or more of the rounded characters.
Great is the art of beginning, but greater the art of ending - Longfellow