Enigmatic Variations No.1486 – SATISFACTION by proXimal

10 comments on “Enigmatic Variations No.1486 – SATISFACTION by proXimal”

1. This was (appropriately, considering the title) a very satisfying puzzle, with a skilfully executed thematic design and a clever and amusing finish.

   There were so many clashes occurring in the grid that I had to rely on the clues being clear and accessible enough to solve them without relying on the crossing letters. In the event, only three clues remained unsolved until the message coming out of the clues forced the crossing letters to reveal themselves. Picking out all the correct letters was a very enjoyable task.

   The riddle in the message was new to me, and instead of giving myself the long-drawn-out pleasure of trying to think of the answer I looked it up. The idea of changing just four letters of ONE EGG to make ‘un oeuf’ hit me while I was briefly away from the crossword – it was a good moment. (All I had to do was find ONE EGG.)

   Thanks to proXimal and Mister Sting.

2. Egg-cellent puzzle. The grid construction was particularly impressive with almost all entries having to contribute to the message or to the final thematic reveal, which must have constrained the setter a great deal. And a fun groan-worthy denouement.

3. I can’t ovoid agreeing with you both. What particularly struck me was the message gimmick. I’m always impressed when the setter goes the extra mile to provide something challenging, given that the necessary thematic grid changes were few on number. The joke (if it deserves to be called such) was new to me, but what a fine spot as the basis for a theme.

4. Very clever idea for a theme. Enjoyable but a bit too difficult for me, though satisfying none the less.

5. I find clashes the hardest gimmick and really struggled with this. It did get much easier once the joke, which I hadn’t heard before, before became clear. A very impressive construction which definitely gave me a great feeling of satisfaction on completing it.

6. Everything I wanted to say has been summed up in the comments above. But it probably wouldn’t hurt to add that this puzzle was an amazing construction, and an absolute joy to solve.

7. Thanks, Mr Sting. But unless I haven’t read this carefully enough, might it be worth pointing out which four cells are changed at the end?

8. wendy at #7 – the completed grid has ‘ONE EGG’ down the leading diagonal, which changes to ‘UN OEUF‘ for submission.
   (I have egg on my face, as I lazily used Franglais and put ‘AN OEUF’…)

9. I initially changed ONE EGG to ENOUGH, which also change 4 cells.
   When I failed to find LUANEST in Chambers, I realised the error of my ways.

   An enjoyable workout and one of my favourite “Dad” puns at the end.

10. Thanks, Wendy! One gets a bit close to the whole thing, so it’s helpful to have someone point out what is/isn’t obvious. I’ve added a line on the changed cells.

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