Advice Needed: Do I Change the Ending of My Short Story?

I first wrote Local Reality Show back in 2016. The ending was sparked by a fleeting news report at the time – three Palestinian teenagers shot dead by Israeli soldiers. What I wanted was a murder mystery parody that also exposed the infuriating way people devour fictional murders (and TV reality shows) yet quickly turn away from real ones. I also wanted to parody politics – how conflict often becomes entertainment for voters, and how some politicians seem motivated more by self-interest than care.

Yes, the story is meant to make readers laugh, as all parodies do. But I deliberately ended it with people turning away from news about Palestinian teenagers being killed – a “sting in the tail” to underline the serious point. It’s a well-known literary device; Alan Marshall used it powerfully in his short story The Gentleman.

Now I worry the sting might be too sharp. The situation for Palestinians has become so horrific that any reference today risks overwhelming the parody. Instead of supporting the story’s message, does it obliterate it?

And perhaps the times really have changed? People are certainly gripped by some real-life murder cases – Erin Patterson and Charlie Kirk come to mind – yet the ongoing murders of women by their partners, and the deaths of First Nations people in police custody, still don’t get the same sustained attention.

So, should I rethink the ending for today’s readers?

One thing I know for certain: I misjudged how I’ve spoken about Local Reality Show. Yes, it’s a comedy, but beneath the parody lies a very dark message. If you came expecting a light-hearted romp and were jolted by the ending, I owe you an apology – I should have been clearer about the kind of story it really is.

That’s why I’m reaching out for your advice. Should I change the ending of Local Reality Show – or leave it as it is? You can read the story here:
[Local Reality Show]

I’d love to hear your thoughts. You can share them on my Facebook page, or, if you prefer, get in touch privately through my Contact page.

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