Generate kicker / closing line options
AI creates 5 strong ending options that provide closure and resonate with readers.
Generate kicker / closing line options
River's Kicker and Closing Line Generator creates 5 different ending options for your story. You describe your story theme and key details, and the AI writes 5 complete kickers using different approaches (return to opening, forward-looking, quote, scene, reflection). Whether you're writing features, profiles, or long-form journalism, you get multiple strong endings to choose from that provide satisfying closure.
Unlike generic conclusions, we create kickers that resonate and linger. The AI understands kicker conventions (return full circle to opening, leave readers with lasting image or thought, use strong final quote, show rather than tell resolution), writes with rhythm and impact, and creates endings that feel earned not tacked on. You get options showing different ways to close powerfully.
This tool is perfect for feature writers crafting endings, journalists learning kicker techniques, reporters testing different approaches, and anyone who struggles sticking landings on stories. If you write great middles but weak endings, or if you want to explore multiple closing options, this tool helps. Use it when your story is drafted and you need the perfect final note.
What Makes Story Endings Memorable
Story endings succeed when they provide resolution while avoiding simple summary. Effective kickers give readers a sense of completion (the story has gone somewhere), often return to themes or images from the opening (creating satisfying circle), and leave readers with something to think about (a question, an image, a tension). Weak kickers just stop (and then I left) or summarize (as we've seen, this issue is complex). Strong kickers resonate, using specific details, scenes, or quotes that capture something essential about the story's meaning.
Different story types call for different kicker approaches. Profiles often end with scenes or quotes showing who the subject is. Investigations might end looking forward to what happens next. Features frequently return to opening images or characters, providing new perspective. News features balance closure with recognition that stories continue. Whatever approach, good kickers avoid explaining significance (trust readers to get it), use concrete details over abstractions, and create final moments that stick with readers after they finish.
To improve your kickers, plan endings while reporting (note moments or quotes that could work as bookends to your opening). Write multiple versions. Read endings aloud (do they have rhythm? do they land?). Avoid the temptation to tidy up too much (some ambiguity is fine). Don't introduce new information (that's jarring). Don't editorialize or explain what readers should think. Trust your reporting and structure. If the story has been well-told, the kicker should feel inevitable. Readers should think (yes, that's exactly where this needed to end).
What You Get
5 complete kicker options for your story
Different approaches: circle back, forward-looking, quote, scene, reflection
Varied tones and techniques
Memorable endings that resonate
Professional feature writing style
How It Works
- 1Describe story themeProvide key details about your story, themes, and opening if relevant
- 2AI generates 5 kickersOur AI creates 5 different ending approaches in 1 to 2 minutes
- 3Review all optionsRead through all 5 approaches
- 4Choose or adaptSelect your favorite or combine elements for your final kicker
Frequently Asked Questions
Which kicker should I use?
Choose the approach that best serves your story and feels most satisfying. Endings that circle back to openings create satisfying structure. Forward-looking kickers work for ongoing stories. Quote kickers work when you have the perfect final quote. Scene kickers suit narrative pieces. Try reading your story with each kicker to see which feels right. Trust your instinct about which resonates.
Can I combine elements from multiple kickers?
Yes. Sometimes the best ending blends approaches. Maybe you return to opening scene but end with a quote, or use a forward-looking statement with concrete imagery. The options show different techniques. You're the editor creating the strongest possible ending, even if that means synthesizing multiple approaches.
What if I don't mention my opening but want a circular ending?
The AI will suggest circular structure generically, but for best results, include opening details in your input. Describe what scene, character, or image you started with. That helps the AI create endings that actually connect to your beginning. Circular structure works best when planned, not retrofitted.
Are these suitable for news stories or just features?
These are optimized for feature-style kickers. Hard news stories typically end with forward-looking statements or context about what's next, which is simpler and doesn't require the same craft. For news features or narrative journalism, these techniques apply. For straight news, keep endings simpler and more utilitarian.
Can this help if I'm stuck on ending mid-draft?
Sometimes, but endings often emerge from the journey of writing. If truly stuck, try generating options to see possibilities. But remember: kickers should feel earned by everything that came before. If none of the options work, your story structure might need adjustment. Great kickers flow naturally from great stories.
What is River?
River is an AI-powered document editor that helps you write better, faster. With intelligent writing assistance, real-time collaboration, and powerful AI tools, River transforms how professionals create content.
AI-Powered Writing
Get intelligent suggestions and assistance as you write.
Professional Tools
Access specialized tools for any writing task.
Privacy-First
Your documents stay private and secure.
Ready to try Generate kicker / closing line options?
Start using this tool in 60 seconds. No credit card required.
Generate Kickers →