The New York Times crossword puzzle is a beloved pastime for many people. Each day, thousands of people turn to the puzzle to challenge their minds and test their knowledge. However, there was a recent puzzle that left many people scratching their heads. The clue was “Lack of joie de vivre,” and the answer was a word that few people had ever heard of. In this article, we will explore the meaning of the clue and the word it was describing.
What is Joie de Vivre?
Joie de vivre is a French phrase that means “the joy of living.” It is a concept that is central to French culture and is often associated with a carefree and enjoyable lifestyle. The phrase is used to describe a feeling of happiness and contentment that comes from living life to the fullest.
The Clue
The clue “Lack of joie de vivre” appeared in the New York Times crossword puzzle on April 20, 2021. The answer was a six-letter word that few people had ever heard of. The answer was “ennui.”
What is Ennui?
Ennui is a French word that means “boredom” or “listlessness.” It is a feeling of weariness and dissatisfaction that comes from a lack of interest or excitement in life. Ennui is often associated with feelings of depression and can be a symptom of a larger mental health issue.
The Reaction
The clue “Lack of joie de vivre” and the answer “ennui” caused quite a stir among crossword enthusiasts. Many people felt that the clue was misleading and that “ennui” was not an accurate answer. Others felt that the clue was clever and that “ennui” was a valid answer.
The debate over the clue and answer continued for several days on social media and crossword forums. Some people even wrote to the New York Times to express their dissatisfaction with the puzzle.
The Solution
In the end, the New York Times stood by the clue and answer. The crossword editor, Will Shortz, explained that “ennui” was a valid answer because it was a synonym for “lack of joie de vivre.” Shortz also pointed out that “ennui” had been used in previous puzzles, so it was not an unfamiliar word to crossword enthusiasts.
The Importance of Clues
The debate over the “Lack of joie de vivre” clue highlights the importance of clues in crossword puzzles. Clues are the key to solving the puzzle, and they can make or break a solver’s experience.
Good clues are clever, challenging, and fair. They should lead the solver to the answer without giving too much away. However, clues should also be clear and unambiguous. A good clue should not mislead or confuse the solver.
Conclusion
The “Lack of joie de vivre” clue in the New York Times crossword puzzle sparked a lively debate among crossword enthusiasts. The clue and answer caused some confusion and dissatisfaction, but ultimately, the New York Times stood by its decision.
Whether you love or hate the clue and answer, it is clear that clues are an essential part of the crossword puzzle experience. They are what make the puzzle challenging, rewarding, and fun.