EV 989 Problem by Samuel

[dr b]

A nice workout, a puzzle full of.... oh, I don't know what. Certainly, I had 21a and the quote long before working out all the clues, and worked backwards to find all the extra letters/words. But, a very clever idea centered around a very clever quotation.

[novalis]

Hi Dr B

Totally agree about the puzzle and backward working. I don't know what to do or what not to do for the rest of the day

[DocHH]

Hello dr b and Novalis,
I progressed in the same way. I thought this EV was a lot harder than those we have been offered in past weeks, very few gifts on the first pass through the clues. Enjoyable nevertheless. I wonder if devadolly has taken the BRB and ODQ on holiday!

[dr b]

novalis, no such issues here - off for a run and then watching NFL football all afternoon, followed by the baseball Cardinals playing to get into the World Series tonight. And grading some papers between quarters/innings!

I will be in Denver next weekend, not sure I'll have time to get to EV till I get back.

[AndrewG-S]

Yes very enjoyable and tricky, once again EV rivaling Listener in the difficulty stakes. Like others got the quote by, damn forgot his name and can't be bothered to look it up again. Words and extra letters all cleverly hidden. Thanks Samuel for a fine and enjoyable puzzle.

[DocHH]

Hello dr b
Enjoy Denver, but try not to get one of their Boots!

[dr b]

DocHH, duly noted. Cardinals made the World Series! W00t! (Yes, I know it is not really a World series, but back in 1903 it probably was; they never bothered to update the name).

[Alan7777]

The first time I've tried an EV and I'm pleased that I was able to finish it without any major obstacles. I too got 21a fairly early on but didn't get the quotation until I had most of the grid filled. It did then help with the last few clues. An enjoyable challenge with some clever hidden letters/words.

[Alan7777]

Meant to say that I noticed a couple of other threads where answers to several of the clues are given. I think it's a shame people don't follow the same approach as with the Listener crosswords. By all means provide some hints to people who are struggling but ...........

[DocHH]

Welcome, Alan7777, to finish on your first attempt is admirable! Look forward to seeing you nattering and chattering on future EVs! I hope you have treated yourself to a large slurp of your favoured tipple in celebration!

[DocHH]

Alan7777,
Here on the EV thread we, at least most of us, do try to help by posting ENIGMATIC hints, which is far more challenging than posting direct answers.

[Alan7777]

Thanks DocHH. I'm trying to cut down on my alcohol intake during the week but I will have a glass or two this evening. Not sure that I will be a regular with the EV as I don't usually get the Sunday Telegraph. I acquired the puzzle section from last weekend's paper from the golf club on Monday.