So, what about the Harry Potter series?  After seven long books, the hero and his friends finally triumphed.  It was a moment to reflect on the sorrow of lost characters and to savor the victory of the core crew.  Now the last page could be turned.

But then, nineteen years later, the dreaded epilogue.

I resented being shoved into HP the next generation.  Instead of adding to the meal, it drained away that last satisfying taste, like garlic squash after a chocolate truffle.

Okay, in retrospect I have to admit it served a purpose.  Some readers, who are not me, found comfort in seeing Harry, Hermione and Ron living normal lives, despite experiencing trauma that should have turn them postal.

More significantly, it impacted the fans and fanatics who wanted to inject their own wild speculations into the characters’ futures, even (maybe especially) when they contradicted what was established in the books.  No, Hermione did not become prime minister and dump Ron for Harry or Luna anyone else.  Harry did not set up a branch of Hogwarts in the US.  Ron did not turn away from magic and live as a muggle.  This epilogue shut down a lot of fanfic, which is probably a good thing.

When I get to it, which I hope will be soon:  Life is Hard and Then You Die

A well-known writer and editor I sometimes have the opportunity to visit with challenged me on my view of epilogues.  Her recent novel takes place during the Holocaust.  The characters go through horrific, soul-wrenching experiences.  She ended the story where it was appropriate for the narrative but felt it left the reader drained and in a dark place.  She decided to use an epilogue to show the surviving characters years later, scarred but dealing with the world.  Without negating what came before it, it gave the reader permission to take a cleansing breath.

I agree with her decision.  An epilogue should be a firm hand that helps you shakily climb off the roller coaster.  It is satisfying when it 1) continues a theme from the story, 2) gives a much-needed emotional release, and/or 3) provides information that adds to an understanding of the characters and the narrative.  It should always be for the reader and not the writer.

Hmm, or should it?  One more post on this topic, then I’ll move on to something else.

Next:  Nineteen years later