Bellinghamster

I just do not understand all the complaints and negativity in the comments after brilliant puzzles like this one. I don’t play tennis because I’m no good at it and I don’t enjoy it. But I don’t go around complaining about it being an unfairly difficult game. These puzzles have become one of my favorite activities in my retirement. I really feel like it helps keep my brain from aging faster. I especially enjoy Thursday, Friday and Saturday puzzles; I used to skip Mondays and Tuesdays but I’ve recently started doing them too, and even though they’re easier they are clever and fun! And I usually enjoy reading the column almost as much as doing the puzzles.

I thought this puzzle was brilliant! I loved it. It really gave my brain a workout, which is why I enjoy crossword puzzles so much. I just cannot understand all the complaints. It’s as if some solvers think crossword puzzle constructors are intending to be offensive or insulting? It’s a game, people! It’s meant to be fun! If you don’t like it, find something else to do that gives you joy, instead of bringing your grumpiness here.

Thank you Sam! Your opening paragraph is succinct, thoughtful, appropriate, and appreciated. I used to really enjoy reading through the comments but had mostly stopped, for the reasons you referred to. The NYT crossword puzzle has become a valuable, enjoyable, and meaningful part of my retirement life, and the Wordplay column is an important component. I’m glad that so many other people participate.

I live for puzzles like this! There are lots of great constructors, but Robin Weintraub is my favorite. Thank you Robin for the excellent diversion. Kept my mind completely occupied, even when I got stuck and had to put it aside a couple of times. Then when I look again and the answer jumps out at me, it’s a thrill!