Danna Rosenberg finds a positive spin.
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WEDNESDAY PUZZLE — Are you a “glass half-empty” or a “glass half-full” kind of person? When faced with circumstances outside your control, do you hope for the best or expect the worst? I think my outlook in such situations is generally good, with a soupçon of despair. One might argue that bracing for the worst is actually positive thinking because it means that any other outcome is sure to exceed expectations.
Today’s grid, constructed by Danna Rosenberg in her New York Times Crossword debut, hinges on an optimistic expression that refers to working with what you have. Ms. Rosenberg has done so brilliantly within the constraints of her first puzzle, and I have a good feeling (optimism!) about her future constructions.
Today’s Theme
When life gives you lemons, you MAKE LEMONADE (61A). When the crossword gives you lemons, you find they’re hidden in entries at 17-, 27- and 48-Across. And then make lemonade.
A lemon lurks in 17A’s JANELLE MONÁE, the [Platinum-selling singer who co-starred in the films “Moonlight” and “Hidden Figures”]. There’s another one in 27A’s TICKLE MONSTER, the imaginary [Creature that might “attack” a small child]. And you’ll spot a third at 48A in [Homing devices?], as in ANKLE MONITORS.
If you’re newer to solving, take note of what’s clever about this theme: Each LEMON is split between the two words of an entry. Expect to find this strategy in clues that mention “hidden” words.
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Source: Elections - nytimes.com
