This week, we dive into the timeless world of crosswords – the original word game which always controls devoted daily follow -up.
We met Steven Lewis, publisher of puzzles in PA Media, to unpack the lasting attraction of this classic format. From the right and from cryptic to the theme and originating, Steven guides us through the way in which crosswords have evolved during the last century – without losing their faithful base of fans. Whether on paper or on the screen, it turns out that the humble crosswords are still one of the most powerful tools for commitment in any publication.
For those who do not know the crosswords, how would you summarize what a crossword is in a few sentences?
Well, I guess that a crossword is probably the biggest word game ever invented.
It is a puzzle of words where you have a series of clues that lead you to answers, which you then place in a grid. All the answers meet, so when you resolve a clue and enter the word, it gives you letters that help with other answers.
What do you think makes an excellent crossword?
There are a lot. Crosswords are available in many different types. But I think that the thing that connects them all together is that crosswords are all words. They reward an understanding of words – their meanings, their spelling, how they are built. And if you are good with the words, you can make crosswords.
And what is your call is the universal appeal of crosswords?
Exactly that, really. The reason why it is such a popular and omnipresent puzzle, or a play on words, is that we all use language. You do not need specialized skills or knowledge. The words are the material we use to navigate in daily life. Everyone has a certain level of understanding of words – their meanings, their spelling, how they work.
So anyone can make a crossword. This does not mean that we are all so good in these, but we all have the capacity. If you can hold a conversation, you can make crosswords.
How do you think that crosswords have evolved over time?
It was a fairly long journey – crosswords are over 100 years old. By thinking about their first forms, they went through a lot of evolution.
Over time, we have developed some standardized types. The three main forms that come to mind are:
First of all, the Rights Crosswordswhich is probably the most popular. The clues are generally based on synonyms and simple definitions.
Then there is the cryptic crosswordWhich is generally considered more difficult. In Cryptics, each index is a small puzzle itself – you must determine which part of the index is the definition and which part is wordplay.
The third type is the general knowledge Or on the theme Crossed clods, which relies more on the facts. It is closer to a quiz, with indices leading to the names of specific people, places or subjects.
Although they are standard forms, there are many specialized variations. For example, you may have heard Pete (chief of the puzzles, Peter Stirling) mention arrow wordswhere the clues appear in the squares of the grid. There are also crosswords in the shape of a spiral, barred crosswordsWho have bars instead of black squares and American-style grid puzzles, which follow a slightly different format compared to what is common in the United Kingdom.
There is even Skeleton crosswordwhere all black squares are not given.
Thus, while certain forms have become standardized, many styles of ramification and niche have developed, keeping the world crossed and diverse.
What kind of puzzler do you think that a crossed word attracts?
I think we approached it earlier – the great thing about crosswords is their universality. They are accessible to anyone. There are so many different types that if you don’t like it, there is probably another style that you will appreciate.
They are incredibly varied and very accessible. But I think you have to take advantage of the challenge of a puzzle.
If it’s not your thing, crosswords may not be for you. But most people have the basic understanding of the language necessary to start. If you like words, you can make a crossword.
We saw crosswords start on printing, then evolve in digital formats. What platform do you think they are best suited?
I think it really depends on the individual. Cross words work very well on paper – people have been solving them in this way for decades. There is something good to be able to scribble, cross things, erase – it’s tactile.
But digital is also fantastic. You can play on your phone, take it on the move and access the useful features. It offers flexibility and the two formats have their strengths. They are popular in both spaces for a good reason.
For me personally, I would do them on paper if I was at home. But if I am on the go, I will make them on my phone.
If I have five minutes to lose, I’m not going to wear a newspaper or a book with me – I will just use my phone. But when I’m at home, I love having the paper in front of me where I can really scratch and make a good mess.
Finally, speaking of the PA Media crossword offer – what are the general comments of customers and their audience who use it?
Crosswords are our most popular puzzle – they have always been. Readers tend to establish solid relationships with their crosswords. Crossword solvers are often very faithful – they find a puzzle they like and they stick. Once a crossed word is part of his routine, it looks like a familiar friend. It is important that he is there in a coherent and predictable way. If something changes, believe me, people will let you know!
In digital formats, crosswords are the most played puzzle. They draw the highest repeated public and the longest residence time. It is a basic food and undoubtedly the most important puzzle that we offer and a cornerstone of each puzzle page of any publication.
Crosswords count deeply to readers. One of these features helps them to identify with a particular publication. They want these crosswords to be a regular part of their day. This is part of their routine, and they feel strongly. They love their puzzles and if something is off, they will not hesitate to let you know.
To find out about the suite of digital puzzles from PA Media, contact here.
Learn more about the power of puzzles and how you can better take advantage of their influence in a content strategy with Peter’s recent webinar was part. Watch the recording on demand here.
