Is it Essential for Every Narrative to Conclude Joyfully?
In the realm of storytelling, the ending of a narrative plays a crucial role in shaping the overall impact of a tale. A well-crafted conclusion can leave an indelible mark on audiences, resonating long after the final scene fades away. The movie "Stranger Than Fiction" masterfully demonstrates this concept, as it explores the life of Harold Crick, an OCD-leaning accountant with the IRS, whose life is narrated by an author.
Harold Crick's world is turned upside down when he learns that his story doesn't end well. Despite the negative reviews and the grim fate of some characters, knowing the ending doesn't deter him from accepting it, as it serves his story well. The ending of a story isn't always a happy one, and "Stranger Than Fiction" is no exception.
The term "solution" is often used to describe the resolution of a story's conflicts, but it can be misleading. Not every story follows a traditional happy ending, nor does it always provide a solution to every problem. In some stories, the ending may evoke emotions like sadness, frustration, or disappointment, serving the story's themes and character arcs.
For instance, in "Reason to Breathe" by Rebecca Donovan, the shocking ending fits the story perfectly, despite negative reviews about it. Similarly, "The Fourth Descendant" doesn't end well for some characters, but it doesn't detract from the story's impact.
A conclusion, on the other hand, is the final outcome of a story, not necessarily a resolution of all problems. In certain stories, the murderer might kill the detective, or the princess might not tell the prince to stay. These endings, while not conventionally happy, can still be effective and impactful.
In fact, a variety of endings can enhance the suspense and impact of a story. If every story ended well, there would be no suspense or tension in the narrative. For example, "Drake and the Fliers" was expected to have an unhappy ending by some readers due to the author's previous work, adding an extra layer of anticipation.
In conclusion, it is essential for an author to prioritize a story-serving ending over a happy ending simply for the sake of happiness. Stories reflect deeper truths, complexities, or themes that may not be resolved simply or happily. An ending should reinforce the story’s message and emotional tone, making the story more meaningful rather than just conveniently uplifting. After all, the goal of storytelling is to evoke emotions, spark thoughts, and leave a lasting impression, not to provide a tidy solution to every problem.
Beta readers, especially those focusing on education-and-self-development, might find the diverse endings in stories to be a valuable tool for understanding narrative structure. For instance, while analyzing "Drake and the Fliers," these readers could discuss how the unexpected ending heightens suspense and deepens the story's themes.
