How do you know when you have got to the ending of your story?
Replies
I always have an ending in mind when I start. It might change slightly as the actual writing progresses, but at least it gives me something to aim at.
This does sometimes have its drawbacks. I'm writing a series, and think I know how the final book ends as far as the MCs are concerned even though it's a long way off in terms of putting it down on paper. The danger here is that because their fate is pre-determined, those characters' actions may lose some spontaneity, one of the main attractions of writing them.
Ha ha! Don't ask me. The reason my first book has so many sequels is because I kept writing through the endings!
Generally speaking it's when you have made your point - the one you set out to make with the theme of the story. Sadly, I chose the theme 'choice' which seems to have allowed me to keep choosing to show yet another perspective. Doh!
Also, do not spring a surprise on the reader that has not in some way been referred to earlier in the novel. An example in a 'WhoDunnit' would be saying the Butler did it, when there are no vague clues to his guilt in any of the chapters. You win, but you will have cheated the reader.
I always have an ending in mind when I start. It might change slightly as the actual writing progresses, but at least it gives me something to aim at.
This does sometimes have its drawbacks. I'm writing a series, and think I know how the final book ends as far as the MCs are concerned even though it's a long way off in terms of putting it down on paper. The danger here is that because their fate is pre-determined, those characters' actions may lose some spontaneity, one of the main attractions of writing them.
Still, it's a bit late to think of that now ;)
Ha ha! Don't ask me. The reason my first book has so many sequels is because I kept writing through the endings!
Generally speaking it's when you have made your point - the one you set out to make with the theme of the story. Sadly, I chose the theme 'choice' which seems to have allowed me to keep choosing to show yet another perspective. Doh!
Also, do not spring a surprise on the reader that has not in some way been referred to earlier in the novel. An example in a 'WhoDunnit' would be saying the Butler did it, when there are no vague clues to his guilt in any of the chapters. You win, but you will have cheated the reader.