And then he changes everything because he knows that if we ever feel we’ve figured it out, we’ll bail.

No, he doesn't. He spins out something that might be brought together, realises that he can't do it, and walks away. Saying it's deliberate, for the viewers' benefit, is simply an attempt to rationalise his talent for exposition and lack of talent when it comes to denouements.

In fact, the hallmark of Abrams is 'it's all exposition'. Past experience suggests he can't complete the circle. The way he treated Alias is the reason why I've never watched Lost: I don't want to be sold short again.