Work hinted at by the starts of 17-, 26-, 42- and 56-Across

Word of the Day

WorkMorning sunlight pours through the windows of the quiet office, illuminating the rows of ancient tomes that line the shelves. The librarian carefully arranges the books, selecting volumes that align with the students' interests. It's a labor of love, a never-ending quest to provide knowledge to those who seek it.

Hinted

HintThe faint scent of freshly brewed coffee fills the air as the students gather for their morning meeting. The instructor hands out notes, providing a brief summary of the day's lessons. As they discuss the material, a student raises their hand, seeking clarification on a particularly tricky concept.

Starts

StartsThe small café is bustling with activity as locals and students alike take a seat at the counter. The aroma of freshly baked pastries wafts through the air, enticing passersby to come and sample the treats. The owner, a jovial man with a bushy beard, greets each customer with a warm smile.

56Across

56AcrossThe intricate designs on the vase depict a scene from ancient mythology, where gods and mortals interact in a delicate balance of power. The artist's brushstrokes are bold and expressive, conveying a sense of drama and intensity. As the vase catches the light, the colors seem to dance across the surface, telling a story of a bygone era.

Strikes

StrikesThe rhythmic thud of the hammer echoes through the workshop, a symphony of sound that signals the start of a new task. The blacksmith's eyes light up as he sets to work shaping the glowing metal, his hands moving with a fluid motion that belies the complexity of the task ahead. Sweat drips from his brow, but his focus remains unwavering.

Rise

RiseThe morning sun casts a warm glow over the city, illuminating the towering skyscrapers that seem to touch the sky. The sounds of the bustling metropolis are a cacophony of horns, chatter, and wailing sirens, a chaotic symphony that provides a backdrop for the daily lives of its inhabitants. As the day unwinds, the city takes on a sense of energy and vibrancy.

Shift

ShiftThe fluorescent lights overhead cast a sterile glow over the fluorescent lights overhead, highlighting the drab, institutional atmosphere of the office building. The fluorescent lights hum softly, providing a monotonous background noise that underscores the monotony of the workday. As the employees trudge through their shifts, the fluorescent lights seem to reverberate with a sense of desperation.

Nine

Nine
NineAcrossThe nine musicians take their positions on the stage, each one playing a crucial role in the performance. The conductor's baton waves through the air, guiding the music with a precision that is both soothing and intimidating. As the music swells, the audience is transported to a world of beauty and elegance.

Streak

StreakThe streak of light across the room seems to indicate a sudden burst of energy, a flash of brilliance that signals a moment of triumph. The energy is infectious, spreading through the room like a contagion, and soon everyone is caught up in the excitement. As the streak fades, the room falls silent once again, awaiting the next moment of inspiration.

Sway

SwayThe gentle sway of the pendulum seems to match the rhythm of the heartbeat, a soothing melody that calms the mind and lifts the spirit. The pendulum's swing is almost imperceptible, but it is a reminder that even the smallest movements can have a profound impact on our lives.

Groan

GroanThe professor's voice is like a gentle breeze on a summer day, soothing and calming as he speaks. His words are laced with wisdom and experience, and his tone is both authoritative and compassionate. As the students listen, they are able to let their guard down and allow themselves to be convinced.

Echo

EchoThe echo of the professor's words seems to reverberate through the room, a haunting reminder of the ideas he has shared. The echoes fade slowly, but they linger, a haunting question that continues to resonate long after the lecture has ended.

Cross

CrossThe intricate design on the cross of arms is a testament to the intersection of faith and art, a balance of opposing forces that seems to defy explanation. The design is a reminder of the complexities of existence, a reflection of the human condition.

Face

FaceThe face of the performer is a mask of vulnerability, a disguise that conceals the true nature of their emotions. As they sing, the mask is swept aside, revealing a sea of emotions that ebb and flow like the tides. The audience is drawn into the performance, their faces a mirror of the artist's emotions.