That Voodoo That You Do: Decoding “Maintains, as a Superstition”
Alright, crossword enthusiasts, welcome back! Today, we’re tackling a clue that delves into the fascinating world where belief intersects with action: “Maintains, as a superstition.” This one’s got layers, and we’re going to peel them back.
At its heart, this clue is about ritual. It’s about the actions we perform, not necessarily out of logic or necessity, but out of a deeper, often unarticulated, conviction that these actions will somehow influence the outcome. We’re talking about the realm where rabbits’ feet bring luck, where knocking on wood wards off misfortune, and where broken mirrors summon seven years of bad luck.
The beauty (and the challenge!) of this type of crossword clue lies in its ambiguity. “Maintains” implies a level of consistency, a repeated action. We’re not talking about a one-off ritual, but something that’s habitually performed. This narrows our focus considerably. Think less grand spell and more everyday practice.
Consider the nuance of “as a superstition.” This phrase is key. It immediately pushes us away from logical or rational explanations. We’re not dealing with proven methods or evidence-based practices. This is firmly rooted in the subjective, the cultural, and often, the deeply personal. The activity suggested is born from faith, not fact.
To crack this clue, start by thinking about the kinds of behaviors that people engage in specifically because of superstitious beliefs. What actions are routinely taken, not for their practical benefit, but for the perceived power they hold over the future?
Think about the context. What are some common anxieties that fuel superstitious behavior? Fear of failure? Concerns about health? Apprehension regarding relationships? These underlying anxieties often manifest in specific actions intended to allay these fears.
Length matters, as always. Keep in mind the number of letters in the answer. This will help you rule out possibilities and focus your brainstorming efforts. A short word might indicate a very common, widely known superstition. A longer word could suggest a more niche or specific practice.
Don’t be afraid to think globally. Superstitions are incredibly diverse across cultures. What might seem perfectly normal in one society could be utterly bizarre in another. A touch of cross-cultural thinking can sometimes provide the needed “aha!” moment.
Also, consider synonyms. What’s another way to say “maintains?” Preserves? Upholds? Continues? Play around with these alternative verbs and see if any spark a connection to a particular superstitious practice.
Finally, remember the power of association. Sometimes, the answer isn’t directly related to the
action
itself, but rather to something associated with that action. Think about objects, places, or even figures that are commonly linked to superstitious beliefs.
Good luck deciphering this one! Let me know in the comments if these hints have sparked any inspiration. I’m eager to hear your theories. Happy puzzling!
Available Answers:
CLINGS TO.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: 0727-25 NY Times Crossword 27 Jul 25, Sunday