On 28/02/2014 20:25, Nick wrote:
Is it just my failing faculties or have cryptic crosswords actually got
harder over the last 30 or so years?

Given time, I could usually struggle through about half of the Telegraph
cryptic. Now I am reduced to picking out the 4 letter words and obvious
anagrams:-(


I started doing the Telegraph quick crossword about 35 yrs ago. Leaving the
cryptic untouched. Fortunately my better half tore out the uncompleted ones,
inc. cryptics, and stashed them away. About 10 yrs ago I started on the
daily cryptics and now struggle with the quick ones. These days I can
normally knock off a Telegraph cryptic in 30-45 mins. Before breakfast and
it's better than going to work on an egg. Now, when on a longish car
journey, we can go through some very old crosswords. Not as mad as it
sounds, I find it an aid to concentration and a relief from boredom.
I wouldn't say Telegraph cryptics have become easier or harder in the past
few years. Like anything, if you know the answer, it's easy. Setters change
and it helps if you can get into the mindset of the setter. I really
struggle with some of the 80's-90's cryptics.
I enjoy cruciverbalism but it is merely a pastime. I struggle with the
Times. Fin.



Some papers use databases of clues and assemble them into crosswords.
This removes one of the elements I like, and you refer to, the mindset
of the setter of the crossword - and not just some individual clues.
Indeed, the attribution on Guardian crosswords has always been
appreciated partly because it reassures that the whole puzzle came from
one mind.

--
Rod