Those who have read my critiques know how I loathe twist endings. Yet, my 'best' flash work revolves around a twist in the tail. I say best based not on accolades, but because it gives me the the best punch when I re-read it.

Wait. I know this story. I wrote it, yet I very much enjoy re-reading it. The 'hook' ending isn't key to my enjoying the tale.

What is, then?

Moving away from that story and into the brief collection of micro-fiction I think memorable, my one requirement fo these surprise endings is that the story is re-readable. Be it plot or setting, characterization or voice, there must be something there besides just the punchline.

Flash that relies on that one 'surprise!' popping out of the allegorical cake is like a knock-knock joke: once you've heard it, it's not effective anymore.i