What is a plot twist?
Quick Answer
A plot twist is a literary device that suddenly changes the direction of a story, often redefining earlier events or introducing new conflict. When it occurs near the end, it is called a twist ending or surprise ending.
Explanation
A plot twist is a narrative technique that introduces a radical change in the direction of the plot. It can alter the audience's perception of previous events or place the story in a new context. If it happens near the end, it is often referred to as a twist ending or surprise ending. The twist usually involves some element of surprise, though it may be foreshadowed to prepare the audience for its eventual revelation. Techniques used to create a twist include withholding information from the audience or misleading them with ambiguous or false details. Not every plot contains a twist; some stories have multiple smaller twists, while others are defined by a single major twist. The effectiveness of a twist relies on the audience's willingness to accept the new interpretation and on how well the twist is integrated into the overall narrative structure.