Loppukappaleen

Loppukappaleen is the genitive form of loppukappale, a Finnish noun that literally means “the end piece.” The term is used to refer to the concluding part of a work, and its exact meaning can vary by context. In general Finnish usage, loppukappaleen can denote either an epilogue in literature or the final movement or section in a musical composition.

Etymology and sense: The word is a compound of loppu meaning end and kappale meaning piece or part. This literal construction highlights its function as the concluding portion of a work. While epilogue is a common equivalent in literary discussions, loppukappaleen is a more descriptive, material term that emphasizes the final component of the piece.

In literature: When used in literary contexts, loppukappaleen often points to a concluding section that provides closure, retrospective commentary, or a final reflection. It may tie together themes, resolve loose ends, or offer a thematic summation after the main narrative.

In music: In musical contexts, loppukappaleen can refer to the last movement or the concluding portion of a composition. The term is less common in technical musical language but may appear in descriptive writing about Finnish music or in catalogues and program notes describing the finale.

See also: Epilogue, Finale, Coda.