May 27, 2014 – Big Dave's Crossword Blog

Toughie 1194

Toughie No 1194 by Messinae

On a cold and gray Chicago mornin’

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BD Rating – Difficulty ***Enjoyment ***

While this Toughie is not a candidate for the Friday slot, I found it to be a bit harder than those usually encountered on a Tuesday.

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DT 27500

Daily Telegraph Cryptic No 27500

Hints and tips by Gazza

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BD Rating – Difficulty **Enjoyment ***

I enjoyed this puzzle but when solving it I was struck by how dated the references are (the movie actor died in 1940, the Mitford girl died in 1948, the jazz pianist was at his peak in the 1940s and 1950s, the cartoon character didn’t survive into the 1960s and the Rolling Stones’ song was first recorded in 1966). Personally I don’t mind this at all – I have a better knowledge of the old times than I do of current ‘yoof’ culture – but is it the way to attract younger solvers? Your views on this and anything else are welcome as always.
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