The Puzzle That Flows: A New Themed Crossword Experience

In this Sunday’s crossword puzzle, titled "Go With the Flow," the spotlight shines on Adrian Johnson, a talented crossword constructor from Laramie, Wyoming. Currently a substitute teacher in Knox County, Tennessee, Johnson is affectionately known as “Mr. A.J.” and has made significant strides in his crossword career, selling his first puzzle to The Times just three years ago when he was only 21. This latest creation marks his ninth puzzle for the publication and proudly stands as the seventh unthemed puzzle he has crafted—his preferred style. These themeless grids are known for their engaging layout and interlocking colorful answers, making for a captivating solving experience.

As I delved into this puzzle, the title felt like a guiding force, leading me through a clockwise journey without much jumping around. Each clue worked harmoniously with the grid's design, creating an enjoyable flow.

Noteworthy Clues

1A. Among the many pop-culture clues within this puzzle, “DEADLIEST CATCH,” an iconic reality TV show about the high-stakes world of crabbing in the Bering Sea, makes its puzzle debut. Its clever use of contemporary culture adds a layer of accessibility for solvers.

43A. The nostalgic charm of “LITE-BRITES,” those colorful rhyming toys with pegs from the 1960s, elicits a wave of fondness, especially following their appearance in the cultural phenomenon “Stranger Things.”

97A. At a well-timed juncture, the clue “They’re usually written in December” directs us to “LETTERS TO SANTA,” reminding us of childhood traditions rather than New Year resolutions.

8D. The delightful crossbreed known as a “SCHNOODLE”—a blend of schnauzer and poodle—makes its crossword debut here. This trendy designer dog has roots dating back to 1949, yet its popularity has soared alongside the rise of mixed breeds.

23D. The clue “Emotion picture?” cleverly leads to the solution “TEAR-JERKER,” a term that evokes the emotional weight behind certain films or plays designed to touch our hearts.

42D. I initially stumbled at the clue for “Relaxed gait,” guessing “gangle” rather than the correct answer, “JOG TROT.” This humorous misnomer came to light thanks to the interlinked clue “Solidify, as a jiggly dessert,” revealing the answer “JELL.”

79D. The clue referencing a jazz standard introduces us to “MOANIN’,” a piece composed by Bobby Timmons in 1958. With lyrics by Jon Hendricks, its inclusion as a crossword answer marks a special first.

Constructor Reflections

Johnson shared his enthusiasm about breaking away from the streak of “no themeless Sundays in 2024” and possibly claiming the title of the youngest constructor to achieve this feat. He recalls promising Sam Ezersky, the digital puzzle editor for The Times, during the American Crossword Puzzle Tournament that he would get a Sunday crossword published before year’s end. That promise transformed into what he considers one of his best and favorite puzzles to date.

His confidence throughout the creative process resonated in the final product, affirming the importance of self-belief in the world of puzzle creation. As Johnson looks ahead, he expresses gratitude to the crossword community, especially to Ezersky, whose support reaffirmed the value of his efforts.

Join the Fun!

To puzzle enthusiasts and casual solvers alike, dive into the exciting world of crosswords and see if you can navigate the flow of this delightful grid. Answers and solutions await subscribers, promising a satisfying conclusion to the challenge.

Prepare yourself for a puzzle that doesn't just test your wit but also invites you into a world shaped by creativity, joy, and nostalgia. Happy puzzling!