Black Squares and Beyond: Decoding a Clever Crossword Clue
Welcome back, crossword enthusiasts! Today, we’re diving deep into a particularly intriguing clue that’s been causing quite a buzz: “Abstain … as suggested by the black squares in this puzzle.”
This type of clue is a beautiful example of what makes crosswords so compelling. It’s not just about knowing obscure vocabulary or historical figures. It’s about thinking laterally, making connections, and seeing the puzzle as a whole entity. In this case, the key lies not just in the words of the clue, but also in the visual layout of the grid itself.
The black squares, often overlooked as merely separators, are, in this instance, integral to understanding the solution. They represent something significant, something that directly relates to the concept of abstaining.
Let’s break down the clue element by element:
“Abstain”
: This is our primary directive. It tells us the answer is a verb or a noun connected to the act of refraining from something. Think about what you abstain
from
. What activities or substances do people typically avoid? What actions involve denying oneself something?
“… as suggested by the black squares in this puzzle”
: This is where the real puzzle-solving begins. This phrase tells us the answer isn’t just a synonym for “abstain.” Instead, it alludes to a visual element within the puzzle itself – the black squares.
So how
do
the black squares relate to abstaining? Consider the following possibilities:
Spatial Relationships
: How are the black squares positioned within the grid? Do they form a particular shape or pattern? Do they separate the grid into distinct sections? Could the way the squares break up the puzzle offer a symbolic meaning related to abstinence or lack?
Visual Metaphor
: Black, in general, can represent absence, void, or negativity. Could the black squares be acting as a visual metaphor for something that is
missing
or
removed
? Could the clue be asking us to consider what is deliberately absent from the grid because of these blacked-out areas?
Hidden Words
: While less likely, examine the letters surrounding the black squares. Is there a combination that, when “abstained” from the grid, forms a related word or phrase? This might involve some serious mental gymnastics, but remember, crosswords reward creative thinking!
Position as Indicators
: Are the black squares behaving as placeholders in some way? Do they provide a clue to the length of the answer, either in terms of the number of letters or the number of words?
The solution to this clue is more than just a word; it’s a
concept
cleverly hidden in plain sight. The trick is to recognize how the black squares are being used to illustrate or symbolize the act of abstaining.
Keep the visual aspects of the puzzle in mind, let the words of the clue resonate, and the solution will reveal itself. Good luck, and happy solving!
Available Answers:
TEETOTAL.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: 0725-25 NY Times Crossword 25 Jul 25, Friday