Words: 76
Average Length: 4.82
I’ve read a lot of poetry this year; some of you might say “too much” after solving today’s grid. That’s the excuse for the theme of this puzzle: the almost certainly misguided idea to merge movie titles and poetry terms and clue them with verses that illustrate the terms. For those of you who weren’t English majors, the terms are defined below.
I promise Wednesday’s MMM will be rhyme-free!
Words: 20
Average Length: 5.13
This week’s MMM may be a bit more challenging than usual. I worked in a French composer many of you probably haven’t heard of, who wrote what I think is the most beautiful flute sonata of the 20th century. In addition, I was forced into 6 Down, who’s a not-very-well-known rapper and thus gets a perhaps less-than-helpful alternative clue after the music-related one.
Here’s a link to the flute sonata, which is filled with sinuous, gorgeous lines and delightfully dissonant harmonies.
Words: 79 (16×15 grid)
Average Length: 5.06
Housekeeping note: the clue to 70 Across should read “One who might assist in the birth of a 64 Across.” Thanks to Sommersmith for pointing out the need for an edit – and be sure to check out his puzzles over at Crosshare.org; they’re excellent!
I think this is one of the easier puzzles I’ve ever constructed. It’s a straightforward themed puzzle clued at a Monday/Tuesday level. There are a lot of proper names, but they’re all reasonably well-known. Enjoy the respite: next Sunday’s grid will be a tough themeless. First, though, come back Wednesday for MMM 24.
Words: 24
Average Length: 4.67
White Rabbit (see clue for 8 Across) is perhaps the best psychedelic rock song ever. Using imagery from Alice in Wonderland and a structure reminiscent of Ravel’s Bolero – including a mesmerizing drum part and a slow, steady crescendo – the song captures the spirit of late ‘60s San Francisco in a bit more than two minutes. Here’s a link.
This is a straightforward themed puzzle celebrating the United Nations International Day of Democracy, which is September 15. Enjoy, and vote!!!
Words: 74
Average Length: 5.03
Here’s a relatively easy puzzle with a literal title. As you’ll see from the picture, I’ve got new JeffsPuzzles.com head wear – the older caps bore an unfortunate color resemblance to a cap supporting he-who-must-not-be-named-but-should-soon-be-in-prison – which, in addition to serving as a bonus clue to 30 Down, is the apex of nerd chic. Email me at jeffspuzzles@gmail.com if you’d like me to send you one ABSOLUTELY FREE!
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