SHARP-EYED

This past Sunday’s Puzzler was more challenging than usual. Yet again our intrepid wordsmiths, Sylvia Bursztyn and Barry Tunick, have proven themselves to be musically challenged. Clue 52 down is “it’s two steps below F.” Their answer is “E flat.” Now anyone who knows the difference between the black and white keys knows that the correct answer is “D flat.”

Poetic license? Hoping no one will notice? Hmm. Busted. Oh, by the way, E flat is two half-steps below F.

PETER WORTH

Sierra Madre

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The musical term “step” is synonymous with “tone,” an interval of two semitones or half-steps. E flat is therefore one step below F.

Notwithstanding the above, thanks for the continuing enjoyment I get from the Puzzler. It’s the reason I get up on Sunday mornings.

WILLIAM MALCOMSON

Glendale

FEIFFER