Every once in a while, a crossword clue lands on your grid that just makes you smile. It’s not just about finding the right word; it’s about appreciating the artistry, the cleverness woven into just a few short words. Today’s featured crossword clue is a prime example of exactly that kind of brilliance.
We’re diving deep into: “Dark time for Lancelot, say? (5)“
Immediately, the mind conjures images of Camelot, of valiant knights, and perhaps even the tragic downfall of a legendary hero. Lancelot, after all, is synonymous with an era of chivalry, but also with profound betrayal and heartbreak. A “dark time” for him could mean so many things – the sorrow of his affair with Guinevere, the chaos of the ensuing wars, or simply a period of personal despair that shadowed his illustrious life. This intriguing crossword clue really makes you ponder the lore, drawing you deep into the epic narrative.
But then there’s that mischievous little addendum: “say?”. Ah, the glorious “say?”. In the world of crossword clues, this isn’t just a casual interjection. It’s often a whispered hint, a wink from the setter, nudging us towards a less literal interpretation. It suggests wordplay, a phonetic twist, or perhaps a clever re-imagining of a familiar phrase. It tells us that the solution to this crossword clue won’t be found by merely recounting Lancelot’s historical tribulations, but by listening closely to the sounds and nuances of the words themselves.
This is where the magic of a truly great cryptic crossword clue lies. It takes an evocative phrase like “dark time”, grounds it in a rich narrative like the legend of Lancelot, and then sprinkles in just enough ambiguity with “say?” to make you think laterally. The five-letter constraint is the final piece of the puzzle, narrowing the field of possibilities but still leaving ample room for delightful misdirection. It’s a testament to the skill involved in crafting a truly engaging crossword clue.
It’s the kind of crossword clue that feels deceptively simple on the surface, yet unravels into something wonderfully intricate once you hit upon the right line of thought. It challenges you to look beyond the obvious narrative and delve into the subtle linguistics at play. So, if you’ve been wrestling with this one, know that you’re in good company. It’s a testament to how creative and engaging a well-crafted crossword clue can be. Stay tuned to unravel the brilliance behind this particular gem.
Available Answers:
NIGHT.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Sunday, 13 July 2025