What we write before we write "The End"

Earlier this year, the Washington Post compiled a list of some of literary history’s best last lines.  With the world’s canon of great literature so massive, they no doubt skipped some classic closers and included a few that could be considered average, at best.

I find the compilation and the concept behind it, though not a new one, intriguing, because we as writers tend to concentrate on creating a compelling opening line to reel readers in to our story. Which is important, of course. But what do we leave them with at the end? It's true you only get one chance to make a good first impression. However, the same rule applies when it comes to last impressions.

I must confess the last lines of my novels don’t exactly set the reader’s imagination on fire. Of the five novels I’ve self-published to date, only two end on a note that, in hindsight, is satisfactory to me and is neither trite nor groan-worthy—and they are from my most recent books (and if you're one of the handful of people out there who may be interested in reading them, don't worry, they don't give too much away):

From The Waimea Two-Step:

A moment later, the ground shook. Soon, a shadow blocked the bull’s light. The alarmed animal stepped aside, and yielded its graze to a massive, horned, beefy beast twice its size.

And from The Volcano Shake:

“Well, you remembered to do a sweep under the bed before we checked out.”

“Yes, Mrs. Gallant. Like Dad taught me to.” A satisfied smile played across his lips. “It would’ve been a shame if we’d have left anything behind.”

Like much of my writing, this is something I need to work on.

But while we’re on the subject, what are you favorite closing lines of books? And what are some examples of your own send-offs?