Crossword puzzles have always been a beloved pastime for many, offering a delightful challenge to flex one's mental muscles. However, occasionally, a dubious crossword clue can raise eyebrows and spark curiosity. In the November 15, 2023 edition of The New York Times' The Mini crossword puzzle, solvers encountered such enigmatic clues that left them scratching their heads.
The puzzle began innocently enough with the title "Today's Theme" and a brief introduction: "I have never really played a game where wagering was involved, unless you count the..." This clue hinted at the possibility of a gambling-related answer, setting the tone for the perplexing journey ahead.
As solvers delved into the puzzle, they discovered clues that seemed to touch upon controversial topics. One clue stood out: "There is something painfully anticlimactic about Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg's indictment of former President Trump." This clue's inclusion in a crossword puzzle raised eyebrows due to its reference to a real-life political event. It begged the question of whether crossword puzzles should delve into such sensitive matters.
Moving on to the next day's puzzle, solvers encountered an ambitious grid that left them in awe. The description of the Friday puzzle read, "Wow, wow, wow, what a grid! I am a bit of a sucker for puzzles with ambitious, unique, or interesting..." This clue hinted at an extraordinary grid that captivated solvers, diverting their attention from the dubious nature of previous clues.
In the midst of solving, solvers stumbled upon a clue that seemingly had no connection to any particular topic: "You want the tiles to turn green, just like the planet." This clue, although enigmatic, provided a momentary respite from the controversial undertones of the puzzle, allowing solvers to focus on the playful aspect of crossword puzzles.
However, crossword puzzles are not immune to controversy. Elon Musk's NY-DC hyperloop, an ambitious transportation project, found its way into a clue, reminding solvers of the outrageous claims often heard from Silicon Valley. This clue highlighted the intersection between puzzles and real-world events, blurring the lines between entertainment and societal discourse.
The inclusion of stock-market circuit breakers in a clue by Paul Kedrosky further emphasized the intricate relationship between puzzles and current affairs. The clue noted how these circuit breakers sparked volatility in the Chinese financial market, shedding light on the puzzle's ability to reflect the ever-changing world.
Despite the sometimes controversial clues, crossword puzzles also provide a means of escape and entertainment. Even A-lister Benedict Cumberbatch, who found himself in lockdown in Hawke's Bay, managed to enjoy the region while solving puzzles. This clue showcased the universal appeal of crossword puzzles, transcending geographical boundaries and bringing joy to people across various walks of life.
Finally, solvers encountered a Wednesday puzzle that catered to their culinary interests. Joe Deeney's puzzle, his 12th appearance in The New York Times, offered solvers a chance to indulge in the world of food. This clue reminded solvers that crossword puzzles can also provide a delightful distraction from the tumultuous events of the world.
In conclusion, the world of crossword puzzles can be both intriguing and controversial. While some clues may raise eyebrows and delve into sensitive topics, puzzles also offer solace, entertainment, and a gateway to diverse realms of knowledge. The dubious crossword clue may be just a small part of the puzzle-solving experience, but it serves as a reminder that even in the world of entertainment, we cannot fully escape the complexities of our reality.
