The best stories often have a twist at the end. But what is a twist?
Is it the result of having led the reader in one direction, only to surprise them with action rising from another?
Not quite.
The best way to understand twists in literature is to envision every story or novel as a mystery, or that every story raises a question.
The trick or measure of a writer’s artistry at her or his craft is to embed the question/mystery in the storyline such that the reader, while aware that something is on the rise, is not quite sure what it is, and where it might take the story. This keeps her or him reading.
You immediately know something is awry when reading the novel, “A Widow’s Season“ by Laura Brodie. In the opening paragraph Brodie shows the major character, Sarah, seeing her dead husband in the grocery store. The novel progresses to Sarah speaking with him, the two engaging in conversation.
At times you wonder if Sarah’s husband is perhaps not dead, or whether Sarah herself is having a breakdown. The setting, action and dialogue of supporting characters evidence that David is truly dead despite the fact his body has not been found.
So what is going on? Better yet, What’s up?
You continue reading to find the answer, which Brodie delivers in a subtle but tantalizing twist. The result is something you may have suspected all along, but dismissed because it appeared too simple.
The best twists are rooted in simplicity. They make plain, reveal and uncover what is right before our eyes. In that way twists are like life. Integrated into the narrative line they render the story more anecdotal.
Have you incorporated twists in any of your stories or novels?
Did you craft them or come upon them by discovery?