Afterstate

/ˈæf.tɚ.steɪt/ noun

Definition

A condition or situation that exists or develops after a preceding state or event.

Etymology

Compound of 'after' and 'state' (from Old French 'estat'). Philosophical and temporal term for describing sequential conditions or circumstances.

Kelly Says

In narrative theory, writers carefully consider the 'afterstate'—what happens after the climax—because how a story resolves shapes whether readers feel satisfied, betrayed, or inspired!

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