Does a satisfying ending in a game, film or novel mean that the work is absolutely good? This is a controversial topic, as people’s definitions of ‘satisfying’ and ‘good’ can vary.
- Miall, D.S. and Kuiken, D., 2002. A feeling for fiction: Becoming what we behold. Poetics, 30(4), pp.221-241.
For some people, a good work requires an absolute ending, which means that all problems are solved, all threads are accounted for, and all characters have a logical conclusion. Such absolutes can leave the audience feeling satisfied and reassured.
- Preis, E., 1990. Not such a happy ending: The ideology of the open ending. Journal of Film and Video, pp.18-23
However, for others, a good production does not necessarily need an absolute ending. Some productions may leave some suspense or open-ended endings at the end, which can stimulate the audience’s imagination and thinking. Such an ending can also give the piece more depth and keep the audience thinking and coming back for more.