The Agony of Near Victory: Unpacking Today’s Crossword Clue
Ah, the daily crossword. A mental gymnasium, a linguistic playground, and sometimes, a source of delightful frustration. Today’s clue, a concise little dagger aimed at our hubris, evokes a particular breed of disappointment: “Also-rans.”
It’s a word that carries the weight of ambition unfulfilled, a shadow clinging to the edges of triumph. We all know the feeling, even if we haven’t personally stood on the precipice of greatness, only to watch it slip through our fingers. The almost-but-not-quite, the near miss, the valiant effort that just wasn’t enough.
Think about the countless historical figures who labored in the shadows of their more celebrated contemporaries. The inventors whose ideas were good, but not quite groundbreaking enough. The artists whose talent was undeniable, but whose names are now only whispers in art history textbooks. The politicians who fought fiercely for their beliefs, only to be relegated to the footnotes of history.
The world remembers winners. We celebrate gold medalists and chart-toppers. But what about those who pushed them to their limits, who forced them to dig deeper, to strive harder? What about the athletes who finished a fraction of a second behind, the singers whose albums went platinum, but not diamond, the writers whose books were critically acclaimed, but not universally adored?
“Also-rans” are more than just losers. They are the embodiment of perseverance, the testament to the power of dedication, even in the face of inevitable defeat. They remind us that the journey is often more important than the destination, and that the striving itself can be a form of victory.
This clue resonates precisely because it taps into this universal human experience. We’ve all been there, in some form or another. We’ve all felt the sting of falling short, of being second best.
So, as you grapple with this particular piece of crossword puzzle brilliance, consider the broader implications of the word. Think about the individuals and events it encompasses. Reflect on the inherent tension between aspiration and reality.
Consider also the linguistic nuances at play. The word itself is deceptively simple, a straightforward compound that belies the complex emotions it evokes. It’s a term loaded with implication, whispering of regret, ambition, and the ever-present possibility of failure.
This clue is more than just a vocabulary test; it’s a micro-narrative, a reminder that life is full of close calls and almost-victories. And perhaps, in that recognition, there’s a small measure of comfort to be found. Because even in the world of crossword puzzles, and the broader tapestry of life, it’s often the near misses that make the ultimate triumphs all the more meaningful. Good luck untangling this crossword clue!
Available Answers:
LOSERS.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Washington Post Crossword -Friday’s Daily By Wendy L. Brandes / Ed. Patti Varol