Welcome back, fellow word nerds and grid warriors! Today, we’re diving headfirst into a particularly intriguing
crossword clue
that, at first glance, might just send you on a wild goose chase. The clue we’re dissecting is:
“Points to states for written works (6)“
.
Now, if you’re anything like me, your initial thought process probably went something like this: “Points to states? Like, compass points? Or maybe state capitals pointing to a state? And then ‘for written works’? Does this involve literature, poetry, or some kind of authorial recognition?” It’s a beautifully crafted bit of wordplay designed to lead you down multiple garden paths, and that’s precisely what makes it such a satisfying solve once you crack it.
Let’s unpack the layers of this particular
crossword clue
. The first phrase, “Points to states,” immediately brings to mind geographical or political divisions. Are we talking about the United States? Or perhaps abstract states of being? Crossword setters are masters of misdirection, and playing on the multiple meanings of “state” is a classic trick of the trade. You might find yourself thinking about state lines on a map, or perhaps even a political party ‘pointing’ towards certain states in an election. But then, the crucial qualifier arrives: “for written works.”
This addition immediately shifts the entire context. Suddenly, our geographical musings take a backseat to the world of literature, publishing, and authorship. “Written works” could encompass everything from novels and essays to academic papers or journalistic pieces. How do “points” relate to this realm? Are we talking about points scored in a literary competition? Or perhaps specific instructions or indicators
within
a piece of writing?
The (6) at the end, of course, tells us the precise length of our desired answer. This six-letter constraint is vital, helping us to eliminate many possibilities that might seem plausible initially but simply don’t fit the letter count. It’s the ultimate arbiter, narrowing down the field considerably once you’ve latched onto the correct line of thinking for this
crossword clue
.
Often, with clues like this, the key lies in understanding a less common, perhaps slightly archaic, or very specific meaning of one of the words, or even a clever pun. Is “points” a noun or a verb here? What if “states” isn’t about geography at all, but about
stating
something? What if “written works” refers to something very specific, like the act of writing itself, or a particular element of a written piece? These are the mental gymnastics required to conquer a challenging
crossword clue
.
Don’t be discouraged if you’re scratching your head. This type of clue is designed to make you pause, to consider every angle, and to really dig deep into your vocabulary and understanding of wordplay. It’s the kind of clue that, when solved, elicits that satisfying “aha!” moment. It reminds us why we love these daily challenges and the mental workout they provide. Keep those brain cells firing, and consider all the possibilities that “points,” “states,” and “written works” could individually, and collectively, suggest. Happy puzzling!
Available Answers:
ESSAYS.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Sunday, 31 August 2025