Enchanting Openings: Unpacking a Beloved Fairy Tale Crossword Clue
Few literary phrases are as universally recognized, as instantly transportive, as the opening to a classic fairy tale. The moment those first few words grace the page or softly roll off a storyteller’s tongue, we’re whisked away. Castles rise from the mist, dragons stir in their slumber, and brave heroes embark on quests of a lifetime. It’s a powerful beginning, a gateway to wonder, and frequently, it forms the basis of a delightful yet sometimes tricky crossword clue. Today, we’re diving into one such iconic phrase, specifically focusing on the pivotal second word of many a beloved narrative.
Consider the very first utterance: “Once…” It’s a word that immediately signals a journey into the past, into a realm not bound by our everyday logic. But it’s the word that follows, the one this particular crossword clue so deftly points to, that truly anchors the narrative in the familiar yet fantastical. This sequence sets the stage, promising an account that isn’t just “once” but “once,” indicating a specific
period
or
event
in a world that is inherently magical. Without it, the “once” hangs in isolation, a mere temporal marker. With it, a grand adventure begins to unfold, beckoning us deeper into the story.
This unassuming single word carries an immense weight. It bridges the gap between the simple introductory “Once” and the grand setting of the tale. It tells us not just
when
but
what kind of when
. It speaks of a specific, often undefined, period long past, rich with possibility and myth. This choice of word isn’t arbitrary; it’s a deliberate crafting, designed to instantly signal to the audience that they are entering a realm where anything can happen. It’s the literary equivalent of a flourish, a signal that everyday rules are suspended and extraordinary events are about to take center stage. For a dedicated crossword enthusiast, recognizing the power behind such a common phrase is key to unlocking the answer to this kind of crossword clue.
Solving a crossword clue that taps into such deep cultural wellsprings is always a rewarding experience. It’s not merely about knowing a definition; it’s about connecting with shared heritage, with stories passed down through generations. This particular crossword clue often appears because its answer is so ingrained in our collective consciousness, yet sometimes, under the pressure of the grid, it can momentarily elude us. We know it, we feel it, we’ve heard it countless times, but pulling it out of the mental archives and fitting it into the allocated squares requires a moment of focused reflection. It tests not just vocabulary, but cultural literacy and the ability to retrieve deeply embedded information.
When you finally nail this type of crossword clue, there’s a satisfying click, a quiet recognition. It brings with it a wave of nostalgia, perhaps a fleeting memory of being read to as a child, or discovering a favorite story for the first time. The word itself, stripped of its context, might seem simple, but its significance is profound. It’s a key that unlocks countless narratives, from the adventures of Cinderella and Sleeping Beauty to the escapades of Puss in Boots and Hansel and Gretel. It’s a word that promises enchantment, conflict, resolution, and, often, a happy ending.
So, the next time you encounter that familiar “Second word of many a fairy tale” as a crossword clue, take a moment. Appreciate the elegance of its placement, the weight of its meaning, and the sheer volume of magic it ushers in. It’s more than just a sequence of letters; it’s the gateway to entire worlds, and a brilliant testament to the enduring power of storytelling. Happy puzzling!
Available Answers:
UPON.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Washington Post Crossword -Monday’s Daily By Brent Sverdloff / Ed. Patti Varol