provided a mini-microcosm of why the game has been so successful: superficial simplicity hiding the layered complexity within. The green set was an obvious reference to American athletics, the yellow set an elemental one to human needs. Blue required accuracy in terminology, fasteners, not fashion, and purple upon familiarity with an instantly recognizable cartoon franchise.
Most astounding was the misdirection built into the puzzle. BRAD could bring a human to mind. RAP could induce music. MIC could have paired up in two sets. It’s this intentional vagueness that keeps Connections so intellectually stimulating, and sometimes infuriating.
To solvers who survived without striking out, kudos. To those who did not, the loveliness of the puzzle is not in the victory, but in the realization of how meanings change, merge, and surprise.
Until next time, happy connecting.
