Today’s USA Today crossword, “Inevitable (Freestyle)”, by Amie Walker and Amanda Rafkin, offers a stimulating challenge. This themeless puzzle tests vocabulary and wit, demanding flexible solving.
UDON noodles, clued as “Kijoyu ____ (noodle dish)” (63A), are a Japanese staple. While often found in stir-fries or hot broth, “Kijoyu Udon” is a cold soup with soy sauce and citrus. The clue cleverly uses “noodle dish,” allowing deduction even without specific knowledge.
The puzzle features artistic figures like Paloma PICASSO (43D: Jewellery designer Paloma). Daughter of Pablo Picasso, Paloma’s Tiffany & Co. collaborations showcase her bold, innovative style, fitting for a puzzle celebrating creativity.
Walt Whitman (1A: “To You” poet Whitman), a pivotal American literary figure, appears. Once controversial, his Leaves of Grass profoundly impacted American poetry. “To You” exemplifies his deep connection with readers.
Contemporary music enters with Taylor Swift (54A: Swift, to Swifties), called “TAY” by fans, and her song “MAROON” (12A). The clue, “And how the blood rushed into my cheeks, so scarlet, it was ____,” blends wordplay and musical knowledge.
From Earl Grey and Sleepytime TEA (14A) to IDLI (40D: Savoury rice cake), the puzzle spans cultural references. Even simple clues like “Hearts, e.g.” (8D), answered SHAPES, require geometric thinking.
A hidden name clue, STAN (45D: Name found in “fast and loose”), displays the constructor’s ingenuity. Foreign vocabulary like SOL (59D: Sun, in Spanish) adds complexity and encourages linguistic awareness.
“Inevitable,” the title, subtly links to Ben Folds’ “THE LUCKIEST” (49A), hinting at destiny. Lacking a traditional theme, this adds philosophical depth. Clues like CLOWN NOSES (56A: Some circus performers’ red accessories) and SIGH (64A: “Best weekend ever” sound) inject playful balance.
Phrases like “I HAVE TO ASK…” (16A), “HEAR ME OUT” (24A), and “BETTER YET” (36A) create interactive dialogue. This dynamic element enhances the traditional format. The “Usa Today Daily Crossword Puzzle” continues its stimulating mental exercise, blending knowledge, wordplay, and culture.