The Royal Resident of the Corner: Decoding a Classic Crossword Clue
There’s a certain regal mystique that descends upon us whenever a
crossword clue
hints at royalty, especially when that monarch isn’t quite what you’d expect. Today, we’re diving deep into a particularly clever and frequently encountered
crossword clue
that conjures an image of power, position, and strategic brilliance: “Corners, as the king.” It’s a phrase that immediately sets the mind whirring, blending the familiar with the subtly deceptive, making it a true test of a solver’s lateral thinking.
Consider the very literal implication of ‘corners.’ In many classic board games, especially those of strategic combat, certain formidable pieces begin their journey tucked away at the very edges of the playing field. They are foundational, anchoring the lines, guardians of the flanks. But unlike the true sovereign, this ‘king’ isn’t confined to a single square, nor does it move one step at a time. Its power lies in its unhindered passage across the board, moving with an elegant, almost unstoppable linearity. Imagine it sweeping across ranks and files, clearing paths, attacking distant targets, or defending critical positions with equal prowess.
This piece, which the
crossword clue
so artfully describes, embodies pure, unadulterated strength on the board. Its initial passivity in the corner belies its potential to become a true powerhouse, influencing vast swathes of the game space. It’s often considered a ‘major’ piece, pivotal in both aggressive pushes and intricate defensive formations. Its value accumulates as the board opens up, transforming from a static sentinel into a dynamic, game-changing force. The sheer scope of its movement makes it a formidable presence, capable of dominating an entire row or column in a single move.
Furthermore, this piece plays a unique role in safeguarding the actual monarch. There’s a particular maneuver, a precise dance of two pieces, where this ‘corner king’ steps in to shield the real royal figure, tucking it away into a more secure position. This strategic pairing underscores its deep connection to royalty, even if it isn’t crowned itself. It’s a defender by nature, a protector of the realm, a silent guardian that lends its strength to the crown, making the
crossword clue
even more deliciously intricate. This protective duty elevates its status, aligning it conceptually with the very essence of kingship – protection and dominion.
The brilliance of this specific
crossword clue
lies in its layered misdirection and precise description. It takes a fundamental characteristic (starting in the corner), imbues it with a powerful, almost royal status due to its strategic impact, and then frames it as if it were the king itself. This isn’t just about knowing a game piece; it’s about appreciating the artistry of language, the way a few words can paint a complete, albeit veiled, picture. It demands that solvers look beyond the obvious, understanding the metaphorical weight behind each chosen word, recognizing the subtle allusions and clever wordplay.
Such clues are the bread and butter of the crossword world, transforming simple definitions into captivating riddles. They celebrate the nuance of language and the depth of common knowledge, inviting us to explore familiar concepts through a fresh, inventive lens. When you encounter a
crossword clue
like “Corners, as the king,” you’re not just solving a puzzle; you’re engaging in a linguistic ballet, where every step, every turn of phrase, is designed to challenge and delight. It’s a reminder that even the most grounded pieces can command a regal presence when viewed through the clever lens of a crossword setter.
Available Answers:
MATES.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Washington Post Crossword -Sunday’s Daily By Jared Cappel / Ed. Patti Varol