When the Big Reveal is a Big Letdown: A Crossword Clue’s Tale of Anticlimax
Ah, the thrill of the solve! The satisfaction of deciphering cryptic clues, the triumphant moment when the grid starts to fill in. But what happens when that final clue, the one that should tie everything together, falls flat? When the answer feels underwhelming, a pale imitation of the brilliance that preceded it?
We’ve all been there, crossword solvers. You’re staring at a blank square, the final clue taunting you with its cryptic elegance. You wrestle with the wordplay, your mind spinning with possibilities. Finally, the answer dawns, a glimmer of understanding. But instead of the joyous “Aha!” moment, you feel a sigh of disappointment.
This week’s crossword clue, however, presented a unique challenge. It wasn’t simply underwhelming, it was a baffling contradiction. The clue itself promised a grand reveal, a piece of the puzzle that would unlock the whole story. But the answer, once it finally surfaced, was nothing short of… anticlimactic.
Let’s dissect this perplexing clue, shall we?
The Clue:
[Insert Clue Here]
The Analysis:
The surface reading of this clue suggests [insert surface reading interpretation]. This seemingly straightforward approach is further complicated by [mention specific wordplay element, e.g. double meaning, anagram].
The clue implies a [describe the expectation set by the clue]. This expectation, built up by the intricate wordplay and the promise of a grand reveal, is what makes the answer so disappointing.
The Anticlimactic Revelation:
[Insert the answer to the clue here]
Now, don’t get me wrong. The answer isn’t inherently bad. In fact, [briefly explain the word’s meaning, its relevance to the general theme, etc]. But the stark contrast between the anticipation and the actual answer is what truly makes this clue a study in anticlimax.
This experience raises an interesting question: what constitutes a good crossword clue? Is it solely about clever wordplay, or does the answer need to deliver on the promise of the clue?
Join me in the comments section and share your thoughts on this perplexing clue. Have you encountered similar anticlimactic reveals in your crossword-solving journey?
Available Answers:
OH, THAT.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: NY Times Crossword 8 Aug 24, Thursday