Peter Gorman, an artist from Waikoloa, Hawaii, has created his first Sunday crossword puzzle for The New York Times. Gorman, who also serves as a visual information specialist for the National Park Service, is known for his “nerdy graphic map art” that depicts street intersections, volcanoes, and public transportation. He described his art as having a connection to puzzles, stating, “I think my art shares a good amount of DNA with puzzles, especially because my designs often include an ‘aha’ moment.” This puzzle marks Gorman’s fifth contribution to the publication.
In his latest crossword, Gorman has introduced a playful and quirky theme titled “Tell Me About Yourself!” The puzzle features seven theme entries located at various positions, including 23, 32, 49, 86, 88, 97, and 114-Across. Each of these entries includes an italicized clue, which can be cryptic, visual puns, or seemingly nonsensical. Gorman notes that the clues provided no direct hints about solving the puzzle until a solver engages with the entries.
The entries themselves present unique challenges. For instance, the clue for 23-Across features a common greeting composed of four words strung together, leading to the solution “I NEED SOME SPACE.” Similarly, the clue at 49-Across hints at an “all-you-can-eat buffet,” missing a word and resulting in the answer “I MISSED YOU.”
As individuals work through the puzzle, the anthropomorphic qualities of the entries can enhance the solving experience, with some clues and answers interacting in engaging ways. Gorman’s approach to crossword construction has drawn attention for its cleverness and the thematic consistency of clues that allow the puzzle itself to playfully “speak” to the solver.
Those interested in challenging their wits can find Gorman’s puzzle in The New York Times, where it engages both novice and experienced solvers alike with its charming innovations and intricate wordplay.
