The mystery of simplicity …

… Charm of animated algebra | Latest News & Updates at Daily News & Analysis.  (Hat tip, Dave Lull.)

The essence of a Christie mystery is its simplicity. Complications are introduced only to throw the reader off track, and make it difficult for him to distinguish between what is essential and what is merely incidental. It is a game in which readers co-operate, or need to, in order to enjoy the book.

As Jule Styne said, "It's easy to be clever. But the really clever thing is to be simple."