What are the benefits and drawbacks of using a cliffhanger twist?

1 Benefits of a cliffhanger twist

A cliffhanger twist can create a strong emotional impact on the reader, making them eager to find out the resolution of the story. It can also increase the tension, suspense, and curiosity of the reader, keeping them engaged and hooked on the story. A cliffhanger twist can also generate buzz and word-of-mouth, as readers may want to share their reactions and predictions with others, or look for clues and hints in the previous parts of the story.

2 Drawbacks of a cliffhanger twist

A cliffhanger twist can also backfire if it is not done well. It can frustrate or disappoint the reader, especially if the twist is illogical, inconsistent, or unresolved. It can also make the reader feel cheated or manipulated, especially if the twist is used too often, too randomly, or too cheaply. A cliffhanger twist can also lose its effectiveness over time, as readers may become desensitized or cynical about the story.

3 How to use a cliffhanger twist effectively

To use a cliffhanger twist effectively, you need to balance the benefits and drawbacks and follow some best practices. It is important to plan your cliffhanger twist in advance and ensure it fits the overall plot, theme, and tone of your story. Subtly foreshadow your cliffhanger twist and avoid giving away too much information or hints that may spoil the surprise or reduce the impact. Additionally, resolve your cliffhanger twist in a satisfying and logical way, and steer clear of leaving loose ends or creating new plot holes. Use your cliffhanger twist sparingly to avoid overusing it or relying on it as a crutch for your storytelling. Most importantly, respect your reader's expectations and intelligence, and do not use your cliffhanger twist as a gimmick or a trick to deceive or manipulate them.

4 Examples of a cliffhanger twist

To exemplify how a cliffhanger twist can be used in various genres and styles of storytelling, here are some renowned and popular cliffhanger twists. For instance, in The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins, the first book concludes with Katniss and Peeta surviving the deadly games by threatening to take their own lives together, only to find out that their act of defiance has kindled a rebellion and made them enemies of the Capitol. Moreover, in The Empire Strikes Back by George Lucas, the second movie of the Star Wars saga ends with Luke Skywalker learning that Darth Vader is his father, and then losing his hand and lightsaber in a duel with him. Similarly, Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn has its first part end with the disclosure that Amy, Nick's missing wife, is alive and has faked her disappearance while framing him for her murder. Lastly, The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown wraps up its first chapter with the murder of Jacques Sauniere, the Louvre's curator who leaves behind a cryptic message and a hint for his granddaughter Sophie and Robert Langdon, a symbologist, to unravel a secret that could upend Christianity.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?