Month: February 2012

Guardian Cryptic N° 25,555, by Boatman

by

I had considered indicating the definition part of each clue, but had not done so, because (a) I’m basically lazy, and (b) I detail the wordplay, and whatever is left over is generally the definition. If there is anything unusual about the definition, I will add a note to that effect (particularly for a Quiptic or Everyman, which are generally geared to the less experienced solver). However , the discussion of the last few days seems to indicate a desire for a more explicit indication, so I am happy to oblige:  definitions are underlined (which, as we shall see, is not always a trivial matter).

Read more >>

Independent 7900/Monk

by

When I saw the rather strange grid, with six 15-letter words and only 22 answers, it immediately seemed that something was afoot, but I can’t see anything. Perhaps there is indeed something there, … Read more >>

Guardian Cryptic 25554 Paul

by

This was an interesting puzzle, thanks Paul.  It was challenging and hard to get into because the gateway clue to the theme, was tricky – complex wordplay and an unusual definition.  Definitions are … Read more >>

Financial Times 13,914 – Mudd

by

Monday Prize Crossword/Jan 30 It is not very often that Mudd appears on a Monday, but there he was.  There were several nice clues with matching surfaces (1ac, 15ac, 26ac and 1d, to … Read more >>

Financial Times 13,913 by Cincinnus

by

Prize puzzle from the Weekend FT of January 28, 2012 Here is another impeccable and highly enjoyable puzzle from Cincinnus. My top-ratings go to 25A (FLEECE), 28A (ATHERTON), 7D (STOMA), 16D (KILLER BEE) … Read more >>

Financial Times 13,922 by Gozo

by

I always enjoy getting a Gozo crossword to blog, and this week was no exception. Gozo grids are always themed – this time all the definitions are geographical locations.  I think this is … Read more >>

Guardian 25,553 / Gordius

by

After my blog of the last Gordius puzzle [unbelievably, only twelve days ago – I could think, like Kenneth Williams, that ‘They’ have it in for me 😉 ] I will forgo a … Read more >>

Financial Times 13921 Phssthpok

by

Phssthpok travels a lot in this puzzle, with references and words from abroad (including Scotland? 🙂 ).  Very nice clueing, with the added bonus of words whose etymology I enjoyed tracking down.  So thank … Read more >>