Orson Scott Card's quote suggests that the contrasting conclusion to a happy ending isn't merely a sad one. While a sad ending leaves audiences feeling melancholy, it may still evoke strong emotions and provide closure. This indicates that a storyline can end gracefully yet sadly, reflecting the complexities of life and narratives.

In contrast, when a story takes an unexpected or unresolved turn, it can leave viewers feeling unsettled, highlighting the notion that not all tales fit neatly within traditional endings. This perspective challenges our understanding of narrative satisfaction and invites deeper reflection on the nature of happiness and resolution in storytelling.