An Insight into Tramp: The Guardian’s Puzzle Maestro
Delving into Guardian crossword puzzles, we encounter the enigmatic Neil Walker, better known as Tramp, a stalwart puzzle setter for over a decade. Let’s catch up with this seasoned wordsmith.
In our latest Setter Q&A session with Tramp, we embark on a delightful exchange. However, what grabs attention from the outset is the revelation that he has contributed a noteworthy five puzzles to date. As a setter’s signature style gradually crystallizes over time, this marks the inaugural segment of our “Checking In With” series.
“Hello again, Tramp. Last time, we touched upon clue length. Is your philosophy unchanged? Any other evolutions?”
“My earlier clues tended to meander, occasionally veering into convolution. Yet, I’ve heeded the feedback from editors and online forums, striving for simplicity where plausible. While I cling to complexity when warranted, I endeavor to curb its excesses within each puzzle.”
“Previously, I crafted thematic puzzles that demanded minimal thematic knowledge from solvers. However, their creation consumed nearly thrice the time, with diminishing returns. Moreover, thematic ideas began to dwindle. Nonetheless, they still make sporadic appearances in my repertoire.”
“Interesting. How, in your view, have crosswords evolved over the past decade?”
“The Independent has paved the way for budding setters, fostering a landscape where numerous brilliant minds grace the pages regularly. The abundance of exceptional crosswords has reached unprecedented heights.”
“Do Guardian setters collaborate on their puzzle plans?”
“I maintain regular correspondence with Vlad for reciprocal crossword testing, share a mutual puzzle and Wagner affection with Klingsor, and assist Dave Gorman with puzzle trials. Although I encounter fellow setters at gatherings, these have been scarce recently, for obvious reasons. Recently, I’ve test-solved a couple of Monk’s Genius puzzles, marveling at his prowess. It’s surreal to count such talented setters among my friends.”
“Fascinating. How does a Jambazi puzzle for The Independent differ from one penned by Tramp?”
“Regrettably, given my workload, I’ve shelved Jambazi puzzles for the time being. Despite having a dozen concepts in reserve, maintaining a three-weekly output for The Guardian poses ample challenge. Whenever a Jambazi puzzle surfaces, I feel compelled to replace it.”
“Regarding style, I believe my puzzles exhibit consistency across publications. Although I’ve attempted drafts for The Times and The Telegraph, the lack of resonance implies my style may not align with their preferences.”
“Any trade secrets you’ve developed?”
“Occasionally, a tricky word necessitates ingenuity to define. For instance, ‘downed one’ hints at a bird, ‘being out of pocket’ alludes to a marsupial, and ‘Faces chief’ cryptically points to Rod Stewart. Generally, finding a fitting definition proves pivotal in cracking such problems.”
“Reflecting on your puzzle-setting journey, what revelations have you had?”
“I’ve come to recognize my proficiency in the craft. However, an unrelenting sense of inadequacy persists, fueled by impostor syndrome.”
“Ah, the eternal struggle. Amid the pandemic, you’ve reignited your passion for drawing?”
“Indeed. As a child, I displayed promise in art, attending weekly classes alongside my brother in Wigan. Yet, following the culmination of GCSE art, we abandoned our artistic pursuits until lockdown prompted a resurgence. Strangely, I’ve found myself sketching Dua Lipa multiple times, albeit with no response to my tweeted endeavors.”
“Well, she’s a busy lady. Speaking of shared interests, do you have any pandemic music recommendations?”
“My brother and I used to pool our school lunch money to procure Supertramp cassettes post-art class escapades in Wigan. Through my crossword endeavors, I’ve struck up a friendship with the legendary John Helliwell of Supertramp fame. Last year, my family and I had the privilege of visiting John, who graciously gifted me a copy of his latest album, ‘Ever Open Door,’ released amidst the lockdown. Could we perhaps indulge in ‘The Ballad of the Sad Young Men’?”