Cracking the Code: "Captain of Literature" Crossword Clue
The crossword clue "Captain of Literature" is a clever way of hinting at a famous author whose works often feature seafaring adventures or strong nautical themes. While several authors could fit the bill depending on the crossword's difficulty, the most likely answer is NEMO.
Here's why:
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Captain Nemo: This is the most prominent "Captain" associated with literature. Captain Nemo, the enigmatic protagonist of Jules Verne's Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea, is instantly recognizable to many. His submarine, the Nautilus, and his adventures beneath the waves are iconic.
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Other Possibilities (and why they're less likely): While other authors have nautical elements in their work, they usually aren't directly referred to as "Captains." Consider these possibilities and why they are less likely:
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Ahab (from Moby Dick): While Captain Ahab is a powerful character, "Captain of Literature" feels a bit too strong a description for him; he's more of a literary anti-hero.
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Hornblower (C.S. Forester): Horatio Hornblower is another popular seafaring captain from literature, but again, the phrasing "Captain of Literature" doesn't quite fit as neatly as it does with Nemo.
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Further Exploration of the Clue:
The clue relies on the solver's knowledge of classic literature and its most memorable characters. Consider how the crossword constructor might be trying to:
- Test familiarity with Jules Verne: Verne's work is a cornerstone of adventure literature, making Nemo a fitting answer.
- Emphasize the Captain's significance: The clue highlights the Captain's prominent role within the story, making Nemo, as the central character of Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea, the strongest candidate.
In Conclusion:
While crosswords can be tricky, the answer "NEMO" is the most probable and satisfying solution to the clue "Captain of Literature," thanks to Captain Nemo's lasting impact on the world of literature and his association with seafaring adventures.
