The story after the main story is typically called an epilogue.
An epilogue is a piece of writing found at the very end of a work of literature, such as a novel, play, or film. Its primary purpose is to bring a sense of closure to the work, often revealing the fates of characters or tying up loose ends that were not fully resolved in the main narrative. The term itself originates from the Greek word epílogos, meaning "conclusion," derived from epi ("in addition") and logos ("word").
Functions and Content of an Epilogue
Epilogues serve various important narrative functions beyond simply ending the tale. They can provide readers with a satisfying sense of finality and often address lingering questions or curiosities about what happens after the main plot concludes.
Common elements and purposes of an epilogue include:
- Revealing Character Fates: Showing where key characters end up years later, their successes, failures, or family lives.
- Resolving Unanswered Questions: Tying up minor plot threads or mysteries that were not crucial to the main conflict but still intrigue the reader.
- Providing Moral or Theme Reinforcement: Summarizing or expanding upon the underlying messages or themes of the story.
- Setting Up Sequels or Spin-offs: While primarily offering closure, some epilogues introduce new elements or hints that can serve as a bridge to future stories in a series.
- Offering a Final Commentary: Sometimes, the author or a character might offer a final thought or reflection on the events of the story.
Epilogue vs. Prologue
To better understand an epilogue's role, it's helpful to compare it with a prologue, which serves the opposite function at the beginning of a story.
| Feature | Epilogue | Prologue |
|---|---|---|
| Placement | At the very end of the main narrative | At the very beginning of the main narrative |
| Purpose | Provides closure, resolves plots, reveals future character fates | Sets the scene, introduces background, hints at future events |
| Etymology | From Greek epílogos ("conclusion") | From Greek prólogos ("before word" or "introduction") |
| Focus | What happens after the main story | What happens before or leading up to the main story |
Why Are Epilogues Important?
Epilogues are crucial for enhancing the reader's experience by satisfying their natural curiosity about the "what next." They allow for a gentle landing after the often intense journey of the main plot, ensuring that the audience feels a complete narrative arc, leaving them with a more profound and lasting impression of the work. For more details on this literary device, you can refer to resources on narrative structures like the Epilogue page on Wikipedia.
