Today’s topic: Stephen Sondheim’s passion for cryptic crosswords. Joined by guests Natan Last, Katie Grogg, Ben Zimmer, and Galen Fott, the conversation explores Sondheim's 1968 stint as the puzzle editor for New York Magazine, his influence on the American cryptic crossword scene, and the connections between his musical works and love for puzzles. Through reflections on prior interviews with Richard Maltby, Jr., Will Shortz, Colm Molloy, and, yes, Sondheim himself, the episode highlights Sondheim’s legacy in both theater and the world of wordplay.

Make sure to get the book everywhere books are found, ⁠⁠or click here⁠⁠.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Today's Topic

01:51 Meet the Guests: Crossword Enthusiasts and Experts

05:28 Discussing the New York Times Crossword Puzzle

07:51 Defining Cryptic Crosswords

10:30 Stephen Sondheim's Influence on Cryptic Crosswords

14:57 The British Cryptic Crossword Scene

22:29 Sondheim's Connection with British Crossword Constructors

32:39 Sondheim's Cryptic Crossword Journey Begins

33:33 American vs. British Crosswords: A Cultural Clash

34:41 Sondheim's Essay and Its Impact

35:44 Criticism and Parody in New York Magazine

41:34 Richard Maltby Jr. Takes Over

48:56 Sondheim's Cryptic Crossword Legacy

56:17 Modern Cryptic Crosswords and Sondheim's Influence

01:03:06 Final Thoughts and Reflections

Special Links:

Colm Molloy

Ann Morrison

Mateo Chavez Lewis

“This Time It’s Crosswords (Not Cross Words) That Surface From Sondheim” New York Times, 2011.

Galen Fott’s Blog

Natan Last

Ben Zimmer

Katie Grogg

Minute Cryptic

Thanks to everyone who contributed behind the scenes to this episode: the Musical Stingers composed by Mateo Chavez Lewis, our line producer Dennis Caouki, and the theme song to our podcast with lyrics and music by Colm Molloy and sung by the one only Anne Morrison, currently on the road starring in Kimberly Akimbo.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices