Crosswords
I am not sure whether my love for cryptic crosswords is a nurture -thing or a nature-thing... either way, they are part of my heritage. For those who wonder what makes a crossword "cryptic", the difference lies in the way clues are arranged. Each clue has two hints at the answer: usually one part is a description, and the other is a "hidden hint".So for example, a clue might read "An admirer of an air conditioner" (3). The answer is FAN: a double-meaning for both admirer, and a/c. Or "inward-turning evolutionist" (6) is DARWIN - because when you turn the letters of 'inward' around, the anagram names the evolutionist.
Once you learn a few tricks, they become wonderfully fun! I was a great fan of the Cape Times crossword when I lived in CT, and missed it terribly. After our trip to Canada, I subscribed for a while to the Globe and Mail, because their crossword was great too - although perhaps a little too difficult for quick solving. But now I've found the perfect crossword for a daily mental workout, the aptly named "Daily Coffee Break" crossword! Hurrah!
posted by Bronwyn at 5:45 am
3 Comments:
Just thought of a name for Pip...... if its a girl - Denise and if its a boy - denephew! whaa haa haa. Thinking of you guys lots and restraining myself from baby shopping. xxx
Hey - thanks for sharing the link! I've only tried a couple of cryptic crosswords (from Games magazine - I think they even have a whole book of them) and was not terribly great but found it a fun challenge.
I remember you tried to explain this too me at college - i think i nodded and grunted but i have a confession to make. i never understood them. Not for a second.
Scott
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