I started making these daily mini cryptics when something at work really upset me. I thought, "fine, if you're going to treat me like that, I'm taking some time every day to make a crossword." I'm still frustrated by work, but keeping up daily crosswords has become a chore rather than fun (the puzzle with ennui in it about broke me). But I've really liked doing these puzzles. Even more, I really appreciated all the comments on them. I've never really done anything creative like this before, so it was quite gratifying to see people enjoy them. I know there were a lot of weak clues, but I hope there were enough good ones to make it worthwhile. I think I might try a bigger puzzle. If I do, and it gets to a workable place, I'll post it here at 3 someday.
If anyone ever wants to work on a puzzle together or needs a test solver, let me know.
Congrats! I always enjoy your puzzles, I’ll be excited to see whatever you make next :) I also relate to the burnout you described—a short break does wonders for your creative juices.
i still cant even imagine putting out one, so i shudder to think what a toll daily construction can bring... thanks for everything, hope you can find the magic again, and best of luck in your endeavors (also glad to end on a prime number as well)
Fantastic, Mr. Fox! I have really, really enjoyed your puzzles. In fact, you inspired me to start posting some of my own! I do hope you set again in the future, but until then, what a terrific mini to end your streak... "shoot" and "pitcher" and "animated mother" gave me great big smiles when I connected the dots. Thanks for sharing your cleverness with us :)
Thank you! I'm glad you are setting. It was sort of the same for me: I was solving other people's daily solve and thought, maybe I could do that. I think this venue is great because it lets you solve and set in one place. I'll keep an eye out for your puzzles!
rjy 7:45 · 2024-02-08T21:37:05.433Z
The daily thing puts undue pressure on and makes it a less fun endeavor… I’ve enjoyed learning from these - relatively new to cryptics - but I’ve gotten addicted with yours and others’ offerings. Thanks for the on-ramp, and hope to see you pop up occasionally whenever it’s fun for you… cheers!
Thanks! If you're just getting in, I recommend the New Yorker's Sunday Cryptic. I think it's meant to be on the easier side, but I still find them really enjoyable. They aren't trivial.
Thanks for all your offerings; I liked 4A and 1D a lot, and I chuckled at 3D and 5A as well. Take care of yourself, and come back to construction when it brings you as much joy as it brings us solvers.
I'm glad they made you chuckle. There are few things I enjoy in solving puzzles more than when a clue makes me laugh. Thanks for your puzzles and feedback!