Can You Believe They Wrote This Crossword Clue

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Post on Jan 17, 2025

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Can You Believe They Wrote This Crossword Clue? – A Deep Dive into Cryptic Construction

The humble crossword clue. A seemingly simple phrase, often deceptively so, tasked with leading the solver to a single, precise answer. But some clues transcend the realm of the straightforward, venturing into the wonderfully bizarre, the hilariously ambiguous, or the downright infuriating. This article explores the art – and sometimes the absurdity – of cryptic crossword construction, focusing on those clues that leave solvers shaking their heads in disbelief, muttering, "Can you believe they wrote this?"

The Anatomy of a Cryptic Clue:

Before dissecting the truly unbelievable clues, let's establish the basics. A well-crafted cryptic clue typically blends two elements: the definition and the wordplay. The definition provides a straightforward description of the answer, while the wordplay uses puns, anagrams, hidden words, reversals, and other techniques to arrive at the same answer through a more convoluted route. The elegance of a good cryptic clue lies in seamlessly integrating these two aspects, making the solution both satisfying and intellectually stimulating.

When Wordplay Goes Wrong (or Right, Depending on Your Perspective):

However, the line between clever wordplay and baffling nonsense can be incredibly thin. Some clues push the boundaries of convention, relying on obscure wordplay, unusual abbreviations, or a heavy dose of whimsy. These are the clues that provoke the incredulous, "Can you believe they wrote this?" reaction.

Examples of Unbelievable Clues (and Why They Work – or Don't):

Let's examine some examples, categorizing them by the type of "unbelievable" element they employ:

1. Obscure Wordplay/Knowledge:

• Clue: "Bird's unusual cry heard near lake (5)"
• Answer: LOON
• Why it's unbelievable: This requires knowledge of a relatively uncommon bird call. While "loon" fits the definition, linking it to the wordplay might require a deep ornithological knowledge or a lucky guess. The "near lake" part is a weak link, only loosely suggesting the bird's habitat.

2. Ambiguity and Double Entendre:

• Clue: "Head of state's instrument (4)"
• Answer: REIGN
• Why it's unbelievable: This clue plays on multiple meanings. "Head of state" could be interpreted as a monarch, while "instrument" could be a tool of governance. The solution hinges on a subtle but potentially confusing double meaning. Less experienced solvers might struggle to reconcile these interpretations.

3. Puns Taken Too Far:

• Clue: "Sound advice for a plumber? (6,4)"
• Answer: STOP TAP
• Why it's unbelievable: This clue relies on a very specific pun, linking "sound advice" to the act of turning off a tap. It’s funny, but its reliance on highly specific associations may leave solvers completely lost.

4. Extremely Specific References:

• Clue: "Character from 'The Simpsons' regularly seen in Springfield's watering hole (4)"
• Answer: MOE
• Why it's unbelievable: This requires specific knowledge of a particular television show. While the reference is clear to fans, it excludes those unfamiliar with the cultural touchstone, making the clue inaccessible.

5. Cryptic Devices Overused or Combined:

• Clue: "Upsetting a quiet, backward island nation (7)"
• Answer: MALTA
• Why it's unbelievable: This clue uses several cryptic techniques. “Upsetting” indicates an anagram of "a quiet", “backward” suggests reversing it, and the solver needs to know the island nation. While it might work for experienced solvers, the layering of techniques may be overwhelming for beginners.

The Delight and Frustration of the Unbelievable Clue:

The very things that make some cryptic clues unbelievable – the obscurity, the ambiguity, the reliance on niche knowledge – are also what make them so captivating. They challenge solvers to think laterally, to explore unconventional interpretations, and to delve into the rich tapestry of language and culture. They're a testament to the creativity and ingenuity of the setters, capable of evoking both immense satisfaction (when solved) and sheer frustration (when not).

Why Setters Create Unbelievable Clues:

The creation of these perplexing clues isn't necessarily an act of sadism. Setters often strive to balance challenge with enjoyment. They aim to create clues that are both difficult and rewarding, pushing the boundaries of cryptic construction while remaining fair (at least within the cryptic crossword ethos). Some setters also use these kinds of clues as a playful way to showcase their wit and wordplay skills.

The Solver's Perspective:

The solver's reaction to an unbelievable clue is entirely subjective. What one solver finds infuriating, another might find brilliant. Experience plays a crucial role, as does one's tolerance for ambiguity and obscure references. The more cryptic crosswords you solve, the more you will begin to recognize patterns and techniques, making seemingly unbelievable clues less daunting.

Conclusion:

The next time you encounter a cryptic crossword clue that leaves you staring blankly at the grid, muttering "Can you believe they wrote this?", remember that you're experiencing a key element of the cryptic crossword’s charm. These unbelievable clues are a testament to the boundless creativity of the setters and a challenge that pushes solvers to sharpen their wits and broaden their horizons. Embrace the puzzle, appreciate the skill involved, and maybe, just maybe, you’ll find yourself cracking the code – and laughing along the way.