Spectator 2164

[djawhufc]

Hi all

On first glance this might be a bit of a workout.

Enjoy

DJA

[crosswhit99]

Thanks Daniel - not seen a carte blanche by Doc before, but the usual symmetry always proves to be a great help with these.

[slaney]

It might indeed - many thanks Daniel.

[roslyn251254]

Thanks Daniel - an excellent puzzle and indeed a workout!

[mathsman]

I have most of the clued entries but I have never attempted a 'blank crossword' before. Any hints as to how to start placing my answers in the grid?

[roslyn251254]

use the symmetrical aspect - so place 4a on the top row, starting in 4th square along, then place 44a in corresponding symmetrical place on bottom row (top left corresponds symmetrically to bottom right etc). Then try and place in some of the down clues on the top row, etc.
Come back if you need more help

[mathsman]

Thanks, roslyn.

That's very kind.

[novalis]

As always, many thanks Daniel. The preamble states that the eight central bars have to be clearly indicated. Am I right in assuming that all the other bars must be entered as well given no instruction to the contrary?

[Neveracrossword]

Yes, the preamble said we had to 'create the barred grid'.

[novalis]

Many thanks, Neveracrossword. It would help werei to read the preamble properly.

[Farrwest]

Can someone please help me get going on this one with the answer to 4a Dictator takes Artemis out East- he fears Gaul (11) Thx

[EMor1]

Franco pho(e)be

[Farrwest]

Many thanks EMor 1

[crosswhit99]

The preamble here seems to miss an important word, as any standard Spectator crossword grid is symmetrical whichever side is uppermost, with the plane of symmetry alternating between diagonals. This one is unusual because it exhibits fourfold symmetry, so the grid is identically symmetrical whichever side is uppermost, plane of symmetry about both diagonals.