A PUZZLER

The Puzzler has changed. I’m not sure when it started--it’s been some time--but thetraditional tools of solution, such as etymology, history, literature and overall erudition have been supplanted. Now one needs nothing less than to be attuned to the subjective cuteness of Sylvia Bursztyn and Barry Tunick.

The Puzzler used to provide a goodly dose of personal satisfaction upon its completion; a certain smugness. Now, alas, I feel diminished by it. Rather than a battle of wits, it has become an exercise in deciphering the lame puns of its creators.

BRYANT H. MC KERNAN

Redondo Beach