Writing the end

I am struggling at the moment trying to write an ending that feels exactly right, properly balanced, emotionally satisfying.

One writer I know always writes her last chapter first. Others like to say that they let their characters develop a will of their own; the writer just follows them to wherever they’re going. I think that’s dangerous. The writer must always be in charge. But I’ve never managed to write the last chapter first. I think it’s worthwhile to know where you’re headed, but a bit of leeway is acceptable. Think of a braided river. The main irresistible flow is from mountain (the exciting opening chapter with a hook) down to the sea (the satisfying ending), but the many braided streams ( the characters, the plot) may meander in surprising directions.

So much for the lecture. I’m still stuck on the ending.