What's Happening?
Aidan Deshong, a college student, has constructed his first Saturday crossword puzzle for The New York Times, marking his fifth contribution to the publication. This puzzle is a collaboration with Akshay Seetharam, a fellow student making his debut in The Times. The puzzle features a 'pinwheel' geometry, a popular format in themeless puzzles due to its challenging nature. The design allows for minimal connectivity between sections, increasing the difficulty level. The puzzle includes fresh and tricky clues, such as the introduction of the Nintendo character Waluigi, and a clever clue for 'cut and paste'.
AD
Why It's Important?
The inclusion of college students in creating puzzles for a prestigious publication like The New York Times highlights the growing recognition of young talent in the field of puzzle construction. This collaboration not only provides a platform for emerging constructors but also brings fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to the crossword community. The challenging nature of the puzzle reflects the evolving standards and expectations of crossword enthusiasts, who seek engaging and thought-provoking content. This development may encourage more young individuals to pursue interests in puzzle creation, potentially diversifying the pool of contributors.
What's Next?
As The New York Times continues to accept submissions from new and diverse voices, it is likely that more young constructors will be featured in future puzzles. This trend could lead to a broader range of themes and styles in the puzzles, appealing to a wider audience. The open submission system of The Times encourages aspiring constructors to contribute, potentially increasing the number of collaborative efforts and innovative puzzle designs. The success of this collaboration may inspire other publications to adopt similar practices, fostering a more inclusive and dynamic puzzle community.
