
Concluding a narrative essay is an art form that requires finesse, creativity, and a deep understanding of storytelling. A well-crafted conclusion can leave a lasting impression on your readers, tying together the threads of your narrative and providing a sense of closure. In this article, we will explore various strategies to help you master the art of concluding a narrative essay, ensuring that your story resonates with your audience long after they’ve finished reading.
1. Reflect on the Journey
One of the most effective ways to conclude a narrative essay is to reflect on the journey you’ve taken your readers on. This involves revisiting the key moments of your story and highlighting the lessons learned or the growth experienced by the characters. By doing so, you provide a sense of completeness and allow your readers to see the bigger picture.
Example: “As I stood at the edge of the cliff, looking out at the vast expanse of the ocean, I realized that the journey had been about more than just reaching the destination. It was about the lessons I learned along the way, the friendships I forged, and the person I had become.”
2. End with a Twist
A surprising twist at the end of your narrative can leave your readers in awe and make your essay unforgettable. This technique works particularly well if your story has been building up to a climax, and the twist serves as the final punchline or revelation.
Example: “Just as I was about to give up hope, I found the letter hidden in the old book. It was from my grandfather, and it revealed a secret that would change my life forever.”
3. Circle Back to the Beginning
Another powerful way to conclude a narrative essay is to circle back to the beginning of your story. This technique, known as a “circular ending,” creates a sense of symmetry and reinforces the central theme or message of your essay.
Example: “As I sat in the same park where it all began, I couldn’t help but smile. The journey had come full circle, and I realized that sometimes, the end is just the beginning.”
4. Leave Room for Interpretation
Sometimes, the best conclusions are those that leave your readers with questions rather than answers. By ending your narrative essay on an ambiguous note, you invite your audience to reflect on the story and draw their own conclusions.
Example: “As the sun set behind the mountains, I wondered if I had made the right choice. The road ahead was uncertain, but I knew that whatever happened, I would face it with courage.”
5. Use a Powerful Quote
Incorporating a meaningful quote at the end of your narrative essay can add depth and resonance to your conclusion. The quote should be relevant to the theme of your story and serve as a final thought that encapsulates the essence of your narrative.
Example: “As Mark Twain once said, ‘The two most important days in your life are the day you are born and the day you find out why.’ Looking back, I realized that my journey had been about discovering my ‘why.’”
6. End with a Call to Action
If your narrative essay has a persuasive or motivational tone, ending with a call to action can be a powerful way to inspire your readers. This technique encourages your audience to take action or reflect on the message of your story.
Example: “So, as you go about your day, remember that every choice you make shapes your destiny. What will you choose to do with your one wild and precious life?”
7. Evoke Emotion
A conclusion that evokes strong emotions can leave a lasting impact on your readers. Whether it’s joy, sadness, or nostalgia, tapping into your audience’s emotions can make your narrative essay unforgettable.
Example: “As I held my newborn baby in my arms, tears streamed down my face. In that moment, I understood the true meaning of love and the incredible journey that had brought me here.”
8. Summarize the Main Points
While this technique is more commonly used in expository or argumentative essays, summarizing the main points of your narrative can also be effective. This approach helps reinforce the key takeaways of your story and ensures that your readers leave with a clear understanding of your message.
Example: “In the end, my journey taught me the importance of perseverance, the value of friendship, and the power of believing in oneself. These lessons will stay with me forever.”
9. End with a Vision of the Future
Concluding your narrative essay with a vision of the future can leave your readers with a sense of hope and possibility. This technique works well if your story is about personal growth or overcoming challenges.
Example: “As I looked out at the horizon, I knew that the future was full of endless possibilities. With the lessons I had learned and the strength I had gained, I was ready to face whatever came my way.”
10. Use Symbolism
Incorporating symbolism into your conclusion can add layers of meaning to your narrative essay. By using symbols that represent the themes or emotions of your story, you can create a conclusion that is both powerful and thought-provoking.
Example: “As the butterfly emerged from its cocoon, I realized that I, too, had undergone a transformation. The journey had been difficult, but it had also been necessary for my growth.”
Related Q&A
Q: How long should the conclusion of a narrative essay be? A: The conclusion of a narrative essay should be concise but impactful. Typically, it should be around 3-5 sentences, but it can be longer if you need to tie up loose ends or provide a more detailed reflection.
Q: Can I end a narrative essay with a question? A: Yes, ending a narrative essay with a question can be an effective way to engage your readers and encourage them to think more deeply about the story. However, make sure the question is relevant to the theme of your essay.
Q: Should I include new information in the conclusion? A: Generally, you should avoid introducing new information in the conclusion of a narrative essay. The conclusion is meant to wrap up the story and provide closure, not to introduce new plot points or characters.
Q: How can I make my conclusion more memorable? A: To make your conclusion more memorable, try to evoke strong emotions, use vivid imagery, or end with a powerful quote or twist. The key is to leave a lasting impression on your readers.
Q: Is it okay to end a narrative essay on a cliffhanger? A: Ending a narrative essay on a cliffhanger can be effective if it serves the purpose of your story and leaves your readers wanting more. However, make sure that the cliffhanger is relevant and adds to the overall impact of your essay.