Novel Endings

In this class, students will be completing a novel already started, usually in Novel Beginnings and Novel Middles (but not necessarily). They will learn how to structure the resolution, and how to address the main conflict and climax. Also addressed will be how to complete the protagonist's character arc or change and avoid being too pat while also giving the reader a sense of satisfaction and inevitability in the conclusion.

Week 1: Climax and Beyond
The beginning of the end. Addressing the first pages surrounding and after the climax." Draw to a conclusion elements foreshadowed earlier in the novel.

Read: Summary of "Great Gatsby," our model novel, as necessary, and Chapter 8
Write: next chapter/pages of your novel.

Week 2: Closure
Closure of character arc begun earlier. Showing the change in the protagonist directly related to the major story conflict.

Read: continue Chapter 8 "The Great Gatsby"
Write: continue next chapters/pages of your novel

Week 3: Denouement
Final untying of the plot complications, revelations of secrets, solving of puzzles or mysteries raised earlier

Read: Chapter 9 "The Great Gatsby"
Write: continue next chapter/pages of your novel


Week 4:Wrapping it All Up

Provide a sense of satisfaction without being pat. Leaving some plot threads uncut and "dangling," as in life (or to provide potential for a sequel).

Read: Finish "The Great Gatsby"
Write: continue or finish your novel

Note: Due dates and amount of writing completed is flexible. There is the possibility of continuing the class beyond the stated due date as well.





Instructor: Stacia Ann

About The Instructor: Stacia Ann is an Linguistics Lecturer and Writing Instructor at the University of California. She has a doctorate of Education, Master's of Art in English/TESOL. This instructor has taught writing classes for over ten years. She also teaches academic writing and English as a Second Language at the University of the Pacific. A published author including works of short fiction and academic nonfiction including contest winning stories.