Adam Vincent leans into the patriotic.
Jump to: Today’s Theme | Tricky Clues
THURSDAY PUZZLE — Oh, hi. You must be here because you solved or tried to solve Adam Vincent’s very clever puzzle and are wondering what just happened to you. Please have a seat, the theme explainer will be right with you.
First, on behalf of the Wordplay team, I would like to wish our readers a happy Independence Day. That wish is related to the theme of today’s crossword, and is a hint but not a spoiler.
I’d have to go into a lot more detail to spoil the multilayered theme in this puzzle. Mr. Vincent’s grid put up a mighty fight, but I did eventually crack it, by which time I had worked up a sweat, plowed through my supply of anxiety chocolate and slapped my forehead silly.
On the other hand, conquering it gave me a tremendous boost: There is evidence that the “aha!” moment we chase when solving is connected to the release of dopamine — the feel-good chemical — in the brain.
So if you tried to solve this puzzle and quit, give it another chance. Try talking to yourself. I mean it — say the entries out loud as you enter them. It may help. And scientists say it may make you feel great.
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Source: Elections - nytimes.com
