Bad Endings

Sometimes you read an amazing story, see a great movie, enjoy a vivid dream… and then it ends in the worst way possible.

As a writer one needs to strive to make their Beginning and Ending the best they can, as when a reader leaves the last page; that is what they will remember most clearly.

Thus a writer must ask:

• Was the finale worth it?
• What should a reader feel?
• Does the full story actually work?
• Will a reader feel cheated?
• Do character actions seem sensible?

Writers must always do their best to write from an artistic vision, yet also sensibly write for an audience who will enjoy their work.

Be wary of creating characters whose entire persona or choices change in order to validate your desired outcome.