Exploring the Expansive Vocabulary of the NYT Crossword: Sept. 21, 2023 Edition

A Fun and Challenging Puzzle: How Some Money Is Held

Introduction

In his fourth puzzle for The New York Times, Dan Caprera presents us with a fun and clever crossword that requires some keen observation skills to uncover its hidden theme. The puzzle, titled “How Some Money Is Held,” incorporates wordplay and visual elements, making it both challenging and enjoyable. Let’s dive into the theme, take a closer look at the clues, and appreciate the skillful construction of this crossword.

The Theme: Winter Migration

The theme of this puzzle revolves around the concept of bird migration during the winter season. While not all birds featured in the grid necessarily migrate in a V-shaped formation, as the revealer “Winter Migration” suggests, the theme phrases do form a distinct V shape when turned 90 degrees downward. Furthermore, the vertical leg of this V shape represents the name of a bird.

An Example of the Theme

To illustrate this theme, let’s look at one of the theme entries: 37A, clued as “Infamous presidential denial.” The intended answer is “I AM NOT A CROOK,” famously uttered by Richard Nixon. However, the phrase breaks off after the letter C, and the remaining letters spell “ROOK,” which becomes the clue for 39D’s “Corner piece.” Thus, we see how the theme seamlessly incorporates the V shape and relates it to the specific bird species.

Clues: Wordplay and Misdirection

One of the joys of solving crosswords is encountering clever clues that require both general knowledge and an ability to think outside the box. Caprera’s puzzle does not disappoint in this regard, offering several examples of wordplay and misdirection.

Center cut?

Take 6A, for instance: “Center cut?” The answer, written as MOH, becomes apparent when we realize it turns downward at 8D’s “HAWK.” The clue playfully references not a culinary term but a type of haircut, specifically a MOHAWK, which is located in the center of the head.

Capital of Washington?

Another clue that demonstrates Caprera’s wordplay is 24A’s “Capital of Washington?” While one might initially think of Olympia, the capital city of Washington state, the clue actually refers to “capital” in the sense of funds, leading us to the answer ONES, the U.S. bill featuring the first president.

Wordplay and Twin Clues

Caprera also employs wordplay with twin clues, such as 29A and 29D, both of which contain the phrase “in a way.” The Across clue, “Shows indecision, in a way,” leads us to HEMS, while the Down clue, “Show indecision, in a way,” points to HAW. These twin clues add an additional layer of challenge to the crossword and showcase Caprera’s attention to detail.

Constructor’s Notes and Overall Impressions

Caprera expresses his satisfaction with the puzzle‘s construction, highlighting the seven theme entries, the 66 themed squares going both horizontally and vertically, and the stacked entries in the center. He admits that the phrase “O.R. DOC” might be considered slightly cumbersome or “gluey,” but overall, he is pleased with the fill in the grid and the tight integration of the theme entries.

Enjoying the Puzzle

As solvers, we can appreciate Caprera’s skill and dedication in constructing a puzzle that challenges us while providing an enjoyable solving experience. The theme, wordplay, and misdirection all contribute to the overall satisfaction of completing this crossword.

Advice: The Easy Mode Newsletter

For those who may find solving Friday puzzles particularly difficult, Christina Iverson, a puzzle editor for The New York Times, offers an accessible option. By signing up for the Easy Mode newsletter, subscribers receive a weekly Friday crossword with more approachable clues sent directly to their inbox. This extra resource allows solvers to gain practice and confidence in tackling the challenges presented by Friday puzzles.

Submitting Crosswords to The New York Times

If you are inspired by Caprera’s puzzle and have aspirations to create your own crosswords, The New York Times Crossword has an open submission system. You can submit your puzzles online, and for helpful tips on getting started, The New York Times offers a series titled “How to Make a Crossword Puzzle.”

Conclusion

Dan Caprera’s “How Some Money Is Held” puzzle is a delightful test of wordplay and observation skills. The winter migration theme, clever clues, and overall construction demonstrate Caprera’s talent as a crossword constructor. Whether you’re a seasoned solver or a beginner looking for accessible puzzles, this crossword offers a fun challenge that is sure to entertain and engage. Happy solving!