The world of crossword puzzles is a thrilling labyrinth of words, trivia, and ingenious wordplay. Every now and then, a particular crossword clue emerges that perfectly encapsulates the multifaceted brilliance of this beloved pastime. Take, for instance, the tantalizing
crossword clue
: “Jukebox musical featuring Gloria Estefan songs, or where to find the ends of 17-Across and 10-, 24-, and 33-Down.” This isn’t just a challenge; it’s an invitation to explore cultural phenomena and the intricate architecture of a well-crafted puzzle.
Right off the bat, this
crossword clue
presents two distinct pathways to the solution, a classic setup that adds layers of enjoyment and problem-solving. The first part, “Jukebox musical featuring Gloria Estefan songs,” immediately transports us to the vibrant world of musical theatre. For those unfamiliar, a “jukebox musical” is a stage show where the plot is built around a catalog of pre-existing popular songs, often from a specific artist or genre. These shows thrive on nostalgia, catchy tunes, and the sheer joy of hearing beloved hits woven into a new narrative.
Gloria Estefan, a true icon of pop music, needs little introduction. Her career, spanning decades, has given us an incredible array of chart-topping hits, from the infectious rhythms of “Conga” and “Rhythm Is Gonna Get You” to the heartfelt ballads like “Don’t Wanna Lose You” and “Anything for You.” Her music, rich with Latin influences and powerful emotional resonance, lends itself perfectly to the dramatic flair of a Broadway production. To craft a jukebox musical around her repertoire is to promise an evening of high energy, poignant storytelling, and unforgettable melodies. When confronted with this specific
crossword clue
, the immediate thought is to delve into the canon of Broadway or West End shows to pinpoint the one that celebrates her incredible musical journey.
But the brilliance of this particular
crossword clue
doesn’t stop there. The “or where to find the ends of 17-Across and 10-, 24-, and 33-Down” clause introduces an entirely different, yet equally satisfying, dimension to the puzzle. This is a classic “revealer” clue, a cornerstone of many themed crosswords. Revealer clues don’t just ask for a standalone answer; they offer a meta-layer, connecting seemingly disparate entries throughout the grid.
To truly crack this
crossword clue
, a solver must not only consider the direct definition from the first part but also engage with the structural genius of the puzzle’s constructor. The phrase “where to find the ends” strongly suggests that the solution to this clue will either literally be a place
where
something ends, or, more commonly in crosswords, it will explain a pattern found at the
ends
of the other specified answers. Imagine the satisfaction of solving 17-Across, 10-Down, 24-Down, and 33-Down, only to realize that their final letters, or perhaps their final words, combine or relate in a meaningful way that points directly back to this central
crossword clue
.
Such thematic connections elevate the crossword-solving experience from a simple test of vocabulary and trivia to a cerebral exercise in pattern recognition and deduction. It requires a holistic approach, where each piece of the puzzle informs and illuminates the others. Successfully navigating a
crossword clue
like this, which blends popular culture knowledge with intricate wordplay and thematic cohesion, is one of the true joys of the daily cryptic or standard grid. It’s a testament to the constructor’s skill and a rewarding journey for any solver who relishes a challenge that’s as clever as it is entertaining.
Available Answers:
ONYOURFEET.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Washington Post Crossword -Monday’s Daily By Robert E. L. Morris / Ed. Patti Varol