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Table of Contents

1. What is an Epilogue?
2. When Should You Write an Epilogue?
3. What Should an Epilogue Include?
4. How to Write an Epilogue?
5. Examples of Epilogues

What is an Epilogue?

An epilogue is a section of a book that comes after the main story has ended. It provides readers with additional information or closure to the story that was not provided in the main narrative. Epilogues are often used to tie up loose ends, provide closure to subplots, or give readers a glimpse into the future of the characters.

When Should You Write an Epilogue?

Deciding when to write an epilogue can be a difficult decision. It's important to consider if the epilogue is necessary to the story or if it's just an added bonus. If the story ends with a lot of unanswered questions or unresolved subplots, an epilogue might be necessary to provide closure to the reader. If the story ends with a clear resolution, an epilogue might not be needed.

Another factor to consider is the pacing of the story. If the story moves quickly and the epilogue slows it down, it might not be the best choice. However, if the story moves slowly and an epilogue can provide a satisfying conclusion, it might be worth adding.

What Should an Epilogue Include?

When writing an epilogue, there are several elements to consider including:

• A time jump from the end of the main story
• Information about what happened to the characters after the end of the main story
• Closure to any unresolved subplots or unanswered questions from the main story
• The emotional state of the characters after the events of the main story
• A sense of finality or closure to the story

How to Write an Epilogue?

When writing an epilogue, it's important to keep in mind the purpose of the section. It should provide closure to the reader and tie up any loose ends from the main story. Here are some tips for writing an effective epilogue:

• Decide on the time frame: An epilogue can take place immediately after the main story or years in the future. It's important to decide on the time frame before starting to write.
• Focus on the characters: An epilogue should give readers a glimpse into what happened to the characters after the main story ended. It's important to focus on the emotional state of the characters and how they were affected by the events of the main story.
• Resolve any unanswered questions: If there were any subplots or unanswered questions from the main story, the epilogue is the perfect place to provide closure to the reader.
• Keep it short and sweet: An epilogue should be brief and to the point. It's important not to drag out the section and slow down the pacing of the story.

Examples of Epilogues

Here are some examples of epilogues from popular novels:

• Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows by J.K. Rowling: The epilogue takes place 19 years after the events of the main story and shows Harry, Ron, Hermione, and their children at Platform 9 3/4 sending their children off to Hogwarts.
• The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins: The epilogue takes place a few years after the events of the main story and shows Katniss and Peeta married with children. It also shows the rebuilding of District 12.
• The Time Traveler's Wife by Audrey Niffenegger: The epilogue takes place several years after the events of the main story and shows Henry and Clare's daughter, Alba, time traveling to visit her father.

Conclusion

Writing an epilogue can be a great way to provide closure to a story and tie up any loose ends. It's important to consider if an epilogue is necessary and what it should include before writing. By following these tips and looking at examples of effective epilogues, you can create a satisfying conclusion to your novel.