NYT Crossword Answers for Dec. 5, 2024

Jump to: Today’s Theme | Tricky Clues

THURSDAY PUZZLE — People turn to crossword puzzles for all sorts of reasons, including the soothing effect they can have on us when life feels out of control. I understand that some themes may drive solvers up a wall, but that’s not what I’m talking about. I’m talking about the comforting feeling of methodically filling in blank squares, being distracted from your problems and the joy of conquering a puzzle that you thought might conquer you. When you’ve completed it, a sense of control is restored, even if it’s just for awhile.

Constructors can feel that happiness and sense of satisfaction, too. After filling their grids in a way that is pleasing to them and submitting their crosswords, receiving an acceptance from the puzzle editors can bring a joy that is hard to describe. I vividly remember my first acceptance, and that was 20 years ago. No matter where or how many times I was published, it never got old. Maybe some of the Wordplayers who are published constructors can explain the feeling in the comments.

Allowing yourself to feel joy and to recall them when life is hard can be healing. Garrett Chalfin’s constructor notes provide an excellent lesson on coping with trauma. He tells a story about how, after a harrowing experience, the habit of substituting a happy memory for intrusive thoughts under the guidance of a therapist helped him begin his healing process.

I think his story will resonate with a lot of people. No matter where you are in life, everyone can use more coping tools.

Today’s Theme

Mr. Chalfin’s puzzle uses the Pixar film “INSIDE OUT” (62A) to give us a hint at how to read the five theme entries, all of which contain gray squares.