A Midsummer Night’s Dream and the Crossword Puzzle
Shakespeare, a name synonymous with timeless literature, masterful wordplay, and the occasional fiendishly difficult crossword clue. For crossword enthusiasts and Shakespeare aficionados alike, the intersection of these two worlds can be a source of both delight and frustration. Today, we’re diving into a particularly intriguing clue that blends the bard’s lyrical prose with the structured challenge of the crossword grid: “We will make amends ere long; / ___ the Puck a liar call”: Shak.‘.
This clue, plucked from the vibrant tapestry of Shakespeare’s works, immediately transports us to a realm of fairies, mistaken identities, and romantic entanglements. The mention of “Puck” is our immediate anchor. Also known as Robin Goodfellow, this mischievous sprite from
A Midsummer Night’s Dream
is a figure of chaos and comedy, famous for his playful tricks and unpredictable nature. Puck’s actions are often followed by consequences, making the line “We will make amends ere long” quite fitting.
The structure of the clue itself offers tantalizing hints. The phrase “We will make amends ere long” establishes the overall context: a promise of reconciliation, a vow to set things right. The second part of the clue, with the pointed instruction “… the Puck a liar call”, adds an element of defiance or challenge. It suggests that someone will be called out if the promise is not fulfilled. The word “Shak.” indicates that the missing word is a term used by Shakespeare in his plays, or as is more likely, a reference to the character using the missing phrase.
Shakespeare’s language, of course, is famously rich and layered. The wordplay in his works goes beyond simple puns, adding depth and nuance to the meanings of his plays. This clue likely utilizes a similar approach. A deeper consideration of the surrounding context, the character speaking, and the play itself will be key to unlocking the solution.
Consider this: Within
A Midsummer Night’s Dream
, who is most likely to be making promises of amends? Who has the power to challenge Puck, to call him out if his mischief leads to lasting harm? Moreover, how would Shakespeare phrase such a challenge? He was a master of iambic pentameter, his writing often adhering to specific rhythmic patterns. Could the number of syllables in the missing word play a crucial role in solving this clue?
This clue is a microcosm of the challenges and rewards of crossword solving. It requires a blend of literary knowledge, deductive reasoning, and attention to detail. It’s a testament to the enduring power of Shakespeare’s language and the cleverness of crossword constructors.
So, grab your favorite copy of
A Midsummer Night’s Dream
, sharpen your pencils, and prepare to delve into the world of Shakespearean wordplay. The answer awaits, hidden within the lines of this timeless classic. Let the hunt begin!
Available Answers:
ELSE.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: 0723-25 NY Times Crossword 23 Jul 25, Wednesday