The Architect’s Best Friend: Unpacking “Mortar’s Companion” in Today’s Crossword
Dust off your thinking caps, crossword enthusiasts! Today’s puzzle presented us with a particularly evocative clue: “Mortar’s companion.” While seemingly straightforward at first glance, this clue, like the best in the business, encourages us to delve deeper than just the surface level. It’s a clue that asks us to consider not just what
accompanies
mortar, but also what
works with
it, what is
essential
to its function, and what creates a cohesive whole alongside it.
“Mortar’s companion” is a beautiful example of how crossword clues can hint at relationships and dependencies. The word “companion” itself is key. It’s not merely an object that happens to be
near
mortar; it’s something that actively
contributes
to its purpose and effectiveness. This immediately steers us away from purely circumstantial answers. We’re looking for something integral to mortar’s role in construction and architecture.
The word “mortar” itself offers several avenues of exploration. We know mortar is a binding agent, a paste used to hold bricks, stones, and other building materials together. It’s a foundational element in construction, providing strength and stability. Therefore, “mortar’s companion” must be something that aids or amplifies these crucial qualities. Think about the properties mortar requires to function correctly. It needs to adhere strongly, resist the elements, and provide a level surface for laying subsequent courses of building materials.
Perhaps we should consider the historical context of mortar use. For centuries, mortar has been a cornerstone of construction, evolving in composition and application. Understanding the traditional materials and techniques associated with mortar might unlock the solution. Imagine the Roman aqueducts, the medieval cathedrals, and the modern skyscrapers – all reliant on the enduring partnership between mortar and its essential “companion.”
However, be wary of oversimplifying the clue. The elegance of a good crossword lies in its ability to challenge assumptions. Don’t automatically jump to the most obvious answer. Consider different interpretations of “companion.” Does it refer to a physical element, a process, or even a specific tool used in conjunction with mortar? The clue is deceptively simple, yet rich with potential avenues of investigation.
Think about the practical application of mortar. What is the mason doing when applying it? What other materials are present at the construction site? What considerations need to be taken into account to ensure the mortar performs its intended function? These questions will bring you closer to cracking the code.
Ultimately, “Mortar’s companion” invites us to appreciate the synergy inherent in construction. It’s a testament to how individual elements, when combined intelligently, can create something far stronger and more enduring than the sum of their parts.
So, sharpen your pencils, ponder the nuances of the clue, and let the architectural muses guide you. The answer to “Mortar’s companion” is out there, waiting to be unearthed. Happy puzzling!
Available Answers:
PESTLE.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Washington Post Crossword -Thursday’s Daily By Katherine Baicker & Laura Dershewitz / Ed. Patti Varol