Welcome to today’s edition of the cryptic crossword, numbered 30,091. This grid promises an intriguing mix of challenges across both Across and Down clues. Dive in to decipher cleverly worded definitions and hidden meanings, ranging from literary references to plays on words.
Across Clues
9 – Prepare for a startling narrative prompted by the phrase “Evil demon vanquished!” (4, 5).
10 – Seek out an athletic individual who appears beneath the surface but is known for capitulating (5).
11 – The decision awarded by a court, incorporated into an alternative month (7).
12 – Look for an astronomer’s associate from the west, identified by a symbolic sign (7).
13 – With some irony, spot the intruding sneak (4).
14 – A composer of a divertimento who managed to achieve this without a component (10).
16 – A term for a valuable almost hidden under an explosive setting, yet evoking an emotional connection (7).
17 – Decode the initials for an artist from the particular pairing of “Power Unit and Evian Water” (7).
19 – Identify a model public figure featured in publications such as NME and Time Out (10).
22 – A minor gaining access to an organisation through a legal right (4).
24 – Link the concentration on accumulating wealth with feeling embarrassed (7).
25 – The craftiest, a stranger of nobility, highlighted in the Observer (7).
26 – An offence deemed capital linked to a Minister without a designated role (5).
27 – A very challenging task when the extent of appreciation is markedly lessened overseas (9).
Down Clues
1 – Consider the unsatisfactory ending experience for the Artemis II crew (1, 4, 2, 3, 5).
2 – Unravel the climb of Smiley’s story in a rising tale of acquisition (8).
3 – Limit the marrow to mere minutes for insults (5).
4 – An actor from a company initially found in modest dress (8).
5 – Mould in a shade of black that is conveniently transportable (6).
6 – Prepare for a tilt to suppress a civil deed nearing sunset (9).
7 – A demonstration of bravery emerges post the destruction of part of vegetation (6).
8 – A botanist creates an elaborate blend of citrus with oil-based tar scrub (15).
15 – Something that invigorates a counterbalance of lexicon, juxtaposed with a title by Bellow (9).
17 – Embark on travel within a Chinook, aligned with being cushioned aboard (8).
18 – A companion demands energy to fulfil an aim and is thereby enhanced (8).
20 – After an honoured ascent into the political core, experience exclusion (6).
21 – A pleasing feminine character integrates her offspring into a musical arrangement (6).
23 – Deliver a performance to charm and amuse (5).
Reporting based on coverage first published by theguardian.com.