How might we write endings that feel both inevitable and surprising? How can we pursue satisfying closure in our stories and novels, yet leave a space for our readers to experience mystery? As Grace Paley says, “Everyone, real or invented, deserves the open destiny of life.” Poetic closure is about the reader’s experience. The reader may look back at the experience unfolded bit by bit as one with a meaningful design. The story doesn’t really end; rather, it gives words to something ambiguous the reader understands about life and living and now recognizes in the pages spread before her. Poetic closure keeps crying out.
In this hands-on, discussion-driven craft seminar, we’ll look at practical craft tools to polish our endings while still preserving mystery. Please be prepared to discuss the short readings provided before our session.
