BY NANCY KAY CLARK
CommuterLit editor & publisher
A QUICK google search on the features of a good story ending resulted in this answer on Reddit: “A good ending will tie up all plot threads in a satisfactory way, ensuring that the reader doesn’t have to think past the ending.”
But what if you want readers to think past the ending? Then I googled benefits of an ambiguous ending. This answer from Catapult Magazine came up: “…a story that works toward an ambiguous ending becomes a mirror for the reader…”
I researched this because a story of mine, “Breathe”, posted last week on CommuterLit as part of our Staff/Volunteer Reader Showcase, has an open-ended ending. I usually don’t go in for those sorts of endings, but in this case I thought it fit the piece. As well, I like the idea that its ambiguity forced readers to think about what was happening on and off the page. I thought it should be open to interpretation.
But I’m well aware that many people do not like ambiguous endings. And I am very curious as to where you all fall on this question. Yeah? Nay? Maybe? Sometimes? Also, you’re welcome to read my story and let me know if its ending works or not for you.
Let me know your take on this issue in the comments.
Poetry Week 2025 Contest Coming Up
Mark your calendars: Submissions for our 2025 Poetry Week Contest will open Monday, April 7.