Today’s question is: Define a cliffhanger in your own words and tell what it means to your writing.
A cliffhanger is a feature in the storyline that pauses the prose just when the reader is at an overeager state, wanting to know what comes next.
I think it’s a great device to get someone to turn the page and to hold their attention from one chapter to the next, or one book to the next in a series. This is one of my favorite devices to employ. I won’t end a chapter unless I can find a cliffhanger. Some may be stronger than others, but I look to create that experience for the reader every time. Members of my local critique group are certainly tired of hearing me rant about the importance of ending a chapter with a draw into the next. Without it, the writing feels flat or bland.
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4 comments:
Hi Marsha!
Welcome to the Hop! It's great to have you here. I loved your post, looks like you really enjoyed this question, too. I did. :)
Cliffhangers certianly spice up the work!
Here I am dangling on the cliff's edge - just like your funny guy in the pic! Hope to see you there!
Hugs,
Angel
X
It's definitely important to make the reader want to turn that page to the next chapter. Cliff hangers don't always have to stand out. Sometimes they can be subtle hints. I enjoyed your answer.
Intelligent answer, as always.
Nice post! I'm still working on those cliffhangers in my own writing. (That guy in the picture doesn't fall, does he? I'm worried.)
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