Okay, so today I decided to tackle the “way up” clue in the NYT Crossword. I’ve been doing crosswords on and off for a while, and some days are definitely better than others. This one, though, I actually managed to figure out! Here’s how it went down:
The Struggle is Real
First, I stared at the clue – “way up” – for a good minute. My brain was totally blank. Nothing. I skipped it and moved on to other clues, hoping something would click later.
I filled in a few of the easier ones, getting a couple of crossing letters for the “way up” spot. I think I had an “A” and maybe an “E”. Still, nothing obvious jumped out.
Lightbulb Moment!
Then, I started thinking about what “way up” could actually mean. Like, literally way up? In the sky? High up?
- I considered “HIGH” – too short.
- Then I thought maybe something related to airplanes? Nope.
- How about “sky”? It will not be work.
Finally, it hit me! “Way up” could mean way in the sense of a direction, and up as in…the opposite of down. It will use “Aloft”.I have a try!
Victory!
I typed in “ALOFT” and bingo! It fit perfectly! I had a good laugh at myself for taking so long, but hey, that’s crosswords for you. Some days they flow, and some days you’re just scratching your head. Today, thankfully, ended with a win.
