Meaning of "Spoiler Alert" by They Might Be Giants

The lyrics of "Spoiler Alert" seem to explore the creative process and the challenges involved in bringing a story to a close. The truck metaphor can be interpreted as the unpredictability and uncontrollability of the creative journey, with the narrator feeling as though their story might veer off course at any moment. The lines about having extra pairs of hands can symbolize the myriad responsibilities and decisions that come with crafting a narrative, hinting at the internal struggle to find the right way to end the story. The theme of distraction and the suggestion of impending trouble reflect the anxieties and doubts that often accompany the creative process, with the narrator grappling with insecurities about whether they can successfully wrap up their tale. Overall, the song captures the complex, messy, and sometimes chaotic nature of creative expression, portraying the push and pull between inspiration and doubt.