It's a long and winding tale...

Meaning

Used to introduce a complicated or convoluted story.

Examples

• John: So, what happened at the conference?
• Alice: <b>It's a long and winding tale...</b> but let's just say there were many unexpected turns.
• John: Oh? I'm intrigued. Do tell!
• Alice: Well, to start, <b>It's a long and winding tale...</b> involving a misplaced document and a very confused delegate.