Each represents some deep fear in the rich and complicated personality that is Bruce Wayne. Riddler, Two-Face, Ivy -- all of these characters will figure into Batman in the coming year.

CNN: So how big and dramatic is this finale? How much of an impact will it have on Batman and DC Comics' current universe?

Snyder: It has a big impact on the whole mythology of Batman, and certainly with the stories coming afterward, it will have a big effect on many of the books -- emotional and lasting effects I don't want to give away.

CNN: It feels like the stakes are being raised in superhero comics more and more in recent years, with more dramatic changes. Why do you think this is?

Snyder: It's not so much to make the books as dramatic as possible or to be shocking, but to try to tell the best story you can that feels organic.

It's not been a marching order. (My editors) say, write this character as if you had just one chance to write him; proceed that way. What if I had these six issues, what would I do to tell this story? It's exciting to have that opportunity.