Resolution

Definition

Resolution refers to the part of a story where conflicts are resolved, and the narrative reaches a conclusion. It is where loose ends are tied up, characters' arcs are completed, and the story comes to a satisfying close, helping to provide clarity and meaning to the events that have transpired. A strong resolution can leave readers with a lasting impression, making it essential in storytelling and journalism.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In narrative journalism, a well-crafted resolution can help readers understand the significance of the events reported and leave them with a clear takeaway.
2. A resolution does not always mean a happy ending; it can also lead to open-ended conclusions that provoke thought and discussion.
3. Effective resolutions often tie back to themes introduced earlier in the narrative, reinforcing the story's central message or moral.
4. The length and detail of a resolution can vary depending on the complexity of the story; simpler tales may require less elaboration than more intricate narratives.
5. Strong resolutions can create emotional impact, allowing readers to feel satisfied or contemplative about the journey they just experienced through the characters.

Review Questions

• How does the resolution contribute to character development in true stories?
  • The resolution plays a crucial role in character development as it showcases how characters have evolved throughout the narrative. In true stories, this final segment reveals how conflicts faced by characters have shaped their beliefs, decisions, and relationships. It allows readers to see whether characters have learned from their experiences or if they remain unchanged, providing insight into their journey and enhancing emotional engagement with the audience.
• Discuss how different types of resolutions can affect reader interpretation in narrative journalism.
  • Different types of resolutions can significantly influence how readers interpret a narrative's message. For instance, a definitive resolution may provide clear closure and understanding of events, while an ambiguous or open-ended resolution might leave readers questioning or reflecting on deeper themes. This variance allows writers to craft narratives that resonate differently based on their intended impact, encouraging critical thinking about complex issues presented in their work.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of various resolution strategies in enhancing narrative coherence and impact.
  • Evaluating different resolution strategies reveals how they can enhance both narrative coherence and impact. For instance, integrating callbacks to earlier themes creates a sense of unity within the story, reinforcing key messages. Alternatively, employing cliffhangers can provoke curiosity and discussion among readers. By analyzing these strategies' effectiveness, writers can tailor their resolutions to achieve desired emotional responses while ensuring that their narratives remain cohesive and memorable.

Related terms

Climax: The climax is the most intense point in a narrative where the main conflict reaches its peak, often leading directly to the resolution.

Denouement: The denouement is the final part of a narrative that follows the resolution, where any remaining mysteries are clarified and the story's aftermath is explored.

Narrative Arc: The narrative arc is the overall shape of a story's progression, including exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution.