While solving a crossword, I use 100% of my brain capacity because some clues make me think twice and get outside the box. Moreover, our eyes also play a significant role in the puzzle-solving process since we navigate the grid with them.
But have you ever noticed how crucial our hands are in doing a crossword? Whether it is in a digital or hard-copy format, both hands help us solve the puzzle with ease. In this regard, the theme of the NYT Crossword for Feb 10 is an homage to hands and their tireless dedication.
Theme of NYT Crossword Feb 10
Let’s start the NYT Crossword analysis Feb 10 with the revealer at 59-Across: “I could use some help here” … or a hint to 17-, 25-, 37-, and 50-Across.” This clue solves to GIVE ME A HAND. Now it’s time to give a hand to the other clues in the grid!
17-Across is about a “Certain casino regular” or POKER PLAYER, who is dealt a hand of cards. Similarly, 25-Across (Psychic who examines lifelines and heart lines) talks about a PALM READER, a person who sees people’s futures by examining the lines on their hands.
37-Across is one of those clues that brought a smile to my lips: “Toy Story 2” character who says, “I’m packing you an extra pair of shoes, and your angry eyes, just in case.” This solves to MRS POTATO HEAD. As you may remember, her hands are detachable and can be replaced. I recall that in the first Toy Story, Mr. Potato Head was always losing his body parts. What wonderful days those were, watching those animations!
50-Across, the device measuring audience approval, is the CLAP-O-METER. This device, popular in 1950s-60s TV talent shows, reacts to the applause of hands.
The use of “hands” in different meanings and occasions is really interesting; we are looking at a grid with multiple clues giving us a hand to understand the theme! Let’s applaud the constructors of the crossword for designing such an exhilarating puzzle.
Facts of NYT Crossword Feb 10
This is a standard 15×15 crossword grid which contains no rebuses and excludes the letters J, Q, W and Z. three clues including GETSINSHAPE, LAVAPIT and MRSPOTATOHEAD are entirely original and have never been used in a published puzzle before.
Did you solve this one single-handedly or did you need a bit of a “hand” with the revealer? Share your fastest Tuesday solve time below!
If you need the answers for daily crossword puzzles like the NYT Crossword or the NYT Mini, make sure to check Daze Puzzle every day to find the solutions you need in record time.
