Spoilers? Yes, please.

 

Whether related to movies, books, or a story a friend is telling me, I am a spoiler seeker.

I have spent much of my adult life avoiding this confession because our culture doesn’t understand why anyone would want to read the last page, why someone would Google to see how a movie ends, or why a perfectly reasonable person would read the synopsis of each episode of a series to see where the story is headed. Yet here I am stepping into the light.

So, when I share with you that I usually pick up a new book and read the first chapter so I will know the characters, then often flip to the last page so I will know if the ending is good, I hope you can refrain from throwing stones – or at least aim gently.

I understand the reasons you may not want spoilers. You probably enjoy the surprise ending your favorite author provides with finesse. You are captivated by the skill of the actors whose facial expressions tell the story with more emotion than could be expressed with just words. And you may feel that the story and even the genre could change if you eliminate the element of surprise. A book could move from suspense to cozy mystery if you know in advance who “dunnit.”

Keep in mind that I have declared myself a spoiler seeker, not a spoiler. I will not share uninvited information about who stole the diamond, who betrayed his best friend, or who did not marry the love of her life. I do not intentionally give away plot points, and if it happens unintentionally, I am always very apologetic and will offer extra popcorn or chocolate in compensation.

But it is important to remember that entertainment needs vary. While some may see the need for spoilers as a weakness, research has shown that my need for spoilers isn’t just simple contrariness. It is a personality trait associated with a high need for closure. This does not mean that I don’t enjoy the story. I just enjoy it more with predictability, clarity, and comfort. I don’t trust the author to be careful with my tender heart.  If the dog dies, I need to know before I get attached.

In fact, instead of ruining the story, knowing the ending often helps me appreciate the story more. I notice the foreshadowing, the details, and the artistry that I might miss otherwise. I am free to enjoy the “how” instead of worrying about the “what.”

I believe suspense is a poor use of my emotional energy.  

My family is very aware of my need for what others would label as spoilers. Most of their recommendations begin with “Nana, don’t watch that movie – it ends badly” or “You will enjoy this book, but be aware her neighbor is no Mr. Rogers.”

And so, while others are bravely riding the roller coaster of suspense, screaming through every twist and turn, at this stage of life, I like my surprises small and my endings known.