Victor Schmitt makes his New York Times Crossword debut.
Jump to: Today’s Theme | Tricky Clues
MONDAY PUZZLE — Geography has never been my strong suit. In fact, there are few things more terrifying to me than being asked to identify a country by its shape. That’s why I was pleasantly surprised to be able to solve today’s crossword, constructed by Victor Schmitt in his New York Times debut, which takes us around the world in 225 squares (or in however many minutes it takes you to solve it).
Now, if there’s one thing I’ve learned from my travels to countries whose shapes I cannot identify, it’s to never be shy about asking for directions. So if you’re still stuck on the crossword after reading today’s column, ask away! I’m giving you the, ahem, latitude to do so.
Today’s Theme
[Here, there and everywhere], as a figure of speech, is ALL OVER THE MAP (57A). In today’s puzzle, the expression also hints at the fact that the ends of 20-, 33- and 41-Across are elements of a physical map. [Something you might step on before or after a shower], for instance, is a BATHROOM SCALE (20A). A [Set of ethical standards] can be referred to as a MORAL COMPASS (33A). And you might call a [Person who has reached near-mythical status] a LIVING LEGEND (41A).
Once I cracked the final entry, a phrase that ETTA (36A) James is known for came to mind: “At laaaaas(t) … ”
Tricky Clues
13A. If the question mark at the end of [Major or Minor in astronomy?] didn’t tip you off, then the choice to capitalize “Major” and “Minor” should have: URSA Major and Minor are constellations.
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Source: Elections - nytimes.com
