Risky Business

I such a difficult time solving today's cryptoquote that I had to finish it during my commute. I couldn't even find it online. But here it is:

"Fortune loves to give slippers to those with wooden legs, and gloves to those with no hands."--Théophile Gautier (1811-1872)

Théophile Gautier

Who was Théophile Gautier? He was a French poet, dramatist, novelist, journalist, art critic, and literary critic. He was part of "La Bohème", circle of artists and writers who led an unconventional life. Gautier coined the phrase "art for art's sake" as he was the first writer to publish this phrase in 1833.

My favorite Newsday constructor, David W. Cromer, wrote today's puzzle. It's called "Have No Fear." All three theme clues are "Ask riskily":

20A: SKATE ON THIN ICE. This is a favorite phrase that teachers always use on students who are just squeaking by. It was also a short-lived reality show on Australian TV in 2005. In this show, nine celebrities learned to skate and the winner would perform with Disney on Ice.


41A: WORK WITHOUT A NET. As a kid, I remember going to the circus and watching all those performers like the trapeze artists and the tightrope walkers. They always used a net for safety. The same thing applies to business. The self-employed must never take a freelance job without a signed contract. Second, they also need to be covered for health insurance. Third, they should always have back-up space for all their major projects.

60A: WALK A TIGHTROPE. See the cartoon on the right for an explanation.

Sorry to be so short today--I'm just tired and irritable.

Signing off,
The Puzzlechick