This morning I came across a link, “15 Books to Read if You Love a Shocking Plot Twist”.

I didn’t click. I couldn’t. It’s a self defeating headline. If I read the list then those fifteen books are ruined for me. The twist becomes untwisted. It’s a non-spoiler-spoiler.

It’s the same problem when someone tells you a movie has a great twist. Well, thanks, you’ve ruined it. You didn’t tell me the secret but you told me enough that I’ll be watching or reading in such a way that I’m keeping an eye out for the twist. So I’m not immersed in the story. I’m viewing the story at a remove.

Knowing there’s a twist takes away the surprise and with it half the pleasure of the story.

Just recommend the book or movie to me. Say nothing about a twist. Tell me you think I’ll enjoy it. Do that I probably will. And after I’ve read or watched I’ll thank you for the recommendation. Not curse you.