Never knowingly undersolved
This was generally at the easier end of the spectrum, but contained a few obscure uses of words that meant some of the parsings took a bit of research. It feels as if … Read more >>
Only two cryptic definitions today, but seven doubles (though in several of those the two definitions are very closely related), together with mostly very straightforward clues of other types, suitable for those who … Read more >>
A bit of a rollercoaster for me this week. When 1 across dropped in straight away, I thought this was going to be an easy ride. An hour later the second answer fell … Read more >>
Another pleasing Sunday morning crossword from Everyman. One or two old chesnutty friends making an appearance, but it’s a puzzle for improving solvers, so we won’t quibble. Appearances from PORTIA and LADY MACBETH, … Read more >>
The preamble told us that all solutions are thematic, wholly or in part. All clues contain normal definitions but, with 18 of them, the wordplay ignores the thematic element. I … Read more >>
I thought I was off to a good start with this when I got all four of the long answers around the edges (including 34a by some inspired guesswork). I then polished off … Read more >>
I found this very enjoyable, a good example of how to make a crossword accessible without making it dull. Something in here for everybody. Thanks Commoner.
Another tour de force from Anax, I thought. Quite a challenge, of course, but I was pleased to be able to finish this one, even if it did take all week. The characteristic … Read more >>
A tougher than usual challenge this week, on a theme which was unfamiliar to me.
In the week leading up to the Scottish referendum, I took inspiration from the story of Robert the Bruce in his cave with the spider…’if at first you can’t solve the EV, stare at … Read more >>
Some of you may have noticed that one of our regular contributors, rhotician, has not commented recently. Sadly, the reason for this is that he was in hospital where he passed away on Tuesday morning.
Since his first comment back in early June 2012, rhotician has regularly provided valuable input to our discussions and I, for one, will miss his contributions. I’m sure that all those who visit this site, particularly those who met Michael at one of the S&B get-togethers, will wish to join me in sending condolences to his family and friends.
A very entertaining puzzle from Picaroon, where I realised early on what was happening in 10 across (after getting 23/12), but that didn’t make the other thematic phrases any easier to solve. I … Read more >>
With only a handful of entries during my first pass through the clues I thought I might struggle a little with this one but I then made steady progress and completed it without … Read more >>
Friday is Phi-day, of course, and Phi has duly served up his latest cruciverbal offering for us. I found that I worked my way through this one at a fairly steady pace before … Read more >>
I enjoyed this pleasant little puzzle from our old pal Orense.