Here's why:
* No Resolution: The story ends without a clear answer to the main conflict or a sense of closure for the characters.
* Open to Interpretation: The lack of resolution leaves the reader to ponder the events and draw their own conclusions.
* Focus on the Journey: The story emphasizes the journey and the process of dealing with the conflict, rather than the outcome.
Examples of Open-Ended Stories:
* "The Open Boat" by Stephen Crane: The story ends with the characters surviving a shipwreck but still facing an uncertain future.
* "The Metamorphosis" by Franz Kafka: Gregor Samsa transforms into a bug and the story ends with his death, leaving the reader to ponder the meaning of his transformation and the reactions of his family.
* "The Lottery" by Shirley Jackson: The story ends with the stoning of Tessie Hutchinson, leaving the reader to question the nature of tradition and blind obedience.
It's important to note that not all stories without a traditional resolution are open-ended. Some stories might have a resolution that is implied, ambiguous, or left to the reader's imagination.