Today, we’re tackling a true classic of the crossword world: the clue “Sappho, e.g.” For many seasoned solvers, this is a familiar friend, a welcome challenge that hints at a specific type of answer. But for those new to the intricacies of
crossword puzzles
, or perhaps just having an off day, it can feel like a riddle wrapped in an enigma. Fear not, because understanding clues like this is a fundamental step in mastering
crossword solving
strategies.
When you encounter a
crossword clue
ending with “e.g.”, your internal crossword dictionary should immediately flag it. “E.g.” is shorthand for the Latin phrase
exempli gratia
, which translates to “for example.” In the context of a
crossword clue
, this isn’t just a casual addition; it’s a direct instruction. The puzzle constructor isn’t asking for a synonym of Sappho, nor a descriptor of her life or work in detail. Instead, they are asking you to identify the
category
or
group
to which Sappho belongs. Your task is to find the overarching term that uses Sappho as a perfect illustration. This is a common and clever way
crossword puzzles
test your general knowledge and your ability to classify information.
Now, let’s consider Sappho herself, the example given in this intriguing
crossword clue
. She was an archaic Greek lyric poet from the island of Lesbos. Though much of her work has been lost to time, the fragments that remain showcase a poet of immense talent, whose verses explored themes of love, beauty, and longing with striking emotional depth. Her influence on later poets and writers is undeniable, securing her place as one of history’s most celebrated literary figures. When you see her name in a
crossword clue
, it’s a cue to access that corner of your mind dedicated to classical antiquity and significant historical figures.
The beauty of this particular type of
crossword clue
lies in its elegance. It requires you to make a cognitive leap from the specific instance (Sappho) to the broader classification. It’s not about knowing every detail of Sappho’s biography, but rather about identifying the single, concise word that categorizes her most commonly recognized role or identity. This is why such clues are so effective in
crossword puzzles
– they test your associative reasoning as much as your factual recall. Sometimes the category can be very broad, sometimes surprisingly niche, which is where the real fun (and challenge) of
crossword solving
comes in.
So, as you ponder “Sappho, e.g.“, ask yourself: what single word encapsulates her essence in a way that allows her to stand as a prime example? What is the most fitting, concise category that a
crossword clue
constructor would choose? The answer is both historically relevant and perfectly suited to the constraints of a grid. We’ll dive into the precise solution for this classic
crossword clue
and explore its nuances in detail, ensuring you’re ready for the next time it appears in your daily puzzle.
Available Answers:
POET.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Universal Crossword – Themeless Sunday 145 By Rafael Musa