CRYPTIC CROSSWORD — We’ve had a nice variety of cryptic “setters,” or constructors, the last several puzzles. Fraser Simpson is an expert, and today’s grid is very tight and pretty challenging. To start with, there are still some anagrams to cling to; I use these clues as toeholds to make headway in all manner of variety puzzles. I think there’s a life lesson in cryptic puzzles about not being intimidated when something looks complicated. there’s a lot to be said for stifling that initial freak-out and breaking things down into their components.

Source: New York Times April 06, 2019 15:33 UTC