

Writing the opening lines of a book is easy. Not that we’ve done it or anything. But just think of all the words that exist – you can choose any that you like. Just start bashing them out – words, words, words… And then you can go anywhere you like. Probably.
Writing the closing lines and/or paragraphs, however, now that’s hard. How to tie up your intricate web of intrigue? How to finish on a high?
Let’s leave it to the masters, eh? For your entertainment and intellectual wellbeing, 30 of the best closing lines in literature. Bang. The End.
The best book endings
Now for the best opening lines in books.
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As Content Director of Shortlist, Marc likes nothing more than to compile endless lists of an evening by candlelight. He started out life as a movie writer for numerous (now defunct) magazines and soon found himself online - editing a gaggle of gadget sites, including TechRadar, Digital Camera World and Tom's Guide UK. At Shortlist you'll find him mostly writing about movies and tech, so no change there then.