Final answer:
The narrator's 'now and then' reflects on the resolution of the story, the characters' change and understanding gained from the experiences. This literary device is true to life, as significant experiences often lead to personal development and new insights.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to the narrator, what happens "now and then" typically involves a reflection on what has transpired, a consideration of the lessons learned, and an examination of how the events have changed the characters, often involving a resolution of the conflict. Not all stories, such as memoirs or personal narratives, end with a neatly resolved conflict, but a reflection on the outcome can still provide closure. This can be especially true in stories with an ending that allows for ongoing consequences or lessons that extend beyond the last page, suggesting the impact of the story's events on the characters' future lives.
When it comes to whether or not this statement is true, it can be affirmed that in literature, falling action often leads to a resolution, and characters typically emerge with new understanding or change. This mirrors the real-life concept that experiences, especially climactic or significant ones, contribute to our ongoing development and understanding of ourselves and the world around us. Consequently, such a statement resonates with truth in both fictional narratives and real life.