“There’s nothing on Earth like really nailing the last line of a big book,” Alex de Campi said. “You have 200 pages to tickle their fancy, and seven words to break their heart.” But how does an author achieve this? It is no easy task, given that endings must, as Chekhov said, “artfully concentrate for the reader an impression of the entire work.”

In this seminar, we will identify elements of satisfying endings in novels and short stories, explore the pros and cons of various and discuss the application of these concepts in our own editing processes.

Please note: This class or event will be held online (using Zoom or a similar live platform). To participate, students or attendees should have a stable internet connection. Class participants: you should have a computer or device with a webcam and microphone; and your Zoom link will be automatically sent to you after you register.