The recent passing of Mel Taub at the venerable age of 97 marks a significant moment for enthusiasts of wordplay and puzzles across the globe. For decades, Mr. Taub was far more than just a puzzle constructor; he was a linguistic architect, a master craftsman whose ingenious creations regularly graced the pages of The New York Times, bringing both challenge and cheer to a devoted readership. His contributions elevated the simple act of solving a puzzle into an engaging intellectual delight, infused with his signature wit and charm.
At the heart of Mr. Taub’s legacy are his beloved Puns and Anagrams puzzles, affectionately known as PandAs. These were not your everyday crosswords; they represented a unique, often playful, variation that stood apart in its design and appeal. It was a form Mr. Taub mastered with such finesse that his name became synonymous with its “groan-inducing wordplay” and clever anagrams, compelling solvers to stretch their minds in delightful new directions.
This article endeavors to delve into the remarkable life and enduring impact of Mel Taub, tracing his journey from his Brooklyn roots to becoming “the king of the groaners” in The Times’s puzzle family. We will explore the intricacies of his craft, the history of the form he championed, and the memorable moments that defined his extraordinary career, ensuring that his wit and ingenuity continue to inspire appreciation.
1. **The Passing of a Puzzle Icon**Mel Taub, the prodigious creator of the Puns and Anagrams puzzle for The New York Times, departed this life at the advanced age of 97. His death on September 14, at his residence in Austin, Texas, brought to a close a remarkable chapter for countless readers who had found immense enjoyment and stimulating challenge in his distinctive style of wordplay for many years. His absence will undoubtedly be felt keenly across the community of puzzle enthusiasts.
The announcement of his passing, conveyed by his son Daniel, resonated throughout the world of cruciverbalism. Mr. Taub was more than a mere puzzle creator; he was a genuine artisan of language, meticulously weaving intricate designs of wit that consistently captivated and occasionally perplexed his audience over a span of several decades. His unique ability to blend humor with intellectual rigor made each puzzle a distinct experience.
At 97, Mr. Taub had lived a life rich in both years and influence, with his significant contributions to The Times puzzle section forming a cherished part of his public identity. His passing prompted an outpouring of heartfelt tributes and shared personal memories from readers, serving as a powerful testament to the deep and lasting connection he had cultivated with his audience through the power of words.
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2. **Architect of Puns and Anagrams**For a considerable portion of his career, Mel Taub was recognized as the principal intellectual force behind a distinctive crossword variation that consistently appeared within the esteemed pages of The New York Times. This unique variant, known formally as Puns and Anagrams, and often referred to by its more informal abbreviation, PandAs, carved out its own niche, distinct from the more conventional crossword formats.
His role extended far beyond that of a mere contributor; he was, as the context explicitly states, “the main whiz” behind the development and popularization of this particular puzzle form. Mr. Taub’s intricate puzzles demanded a specific kind of mental flexibility from their solvers—a readiness to engage with language on a more imaginative, pliable, and frequently humorous plane, offering a fresh perspective on lexical challenges.
Mr. Taub’s masterful craftsmanship in constructing these puzzles was undeniable, characterized by an extraordinary aptitude for manipulating words. He skillfully inverted and rearranged terms, creating linguistic challenges that were simultaneously perplexing to the uninitiated and immensely gratifying to those who successfully unraveled them. This unique talent solidified his reputation as a revered and innovative figure within the broader puzzle-making community.
He consistently produced puzzles that stood as a testament to his inventive spirit, thereby shaping the very definition of a specific type of word puzzle that steadily accumulated a loyal following. This achievement was particularly notable in an environment where more traditional crossword styles often dominated the landscape of intellectual pastimes, showcasing the distinct appeal of his method.
3. **The Mechanics of the “PandA”**At its core, a Puns and Anagrams puzzle, meticulously crafted by Mel Taub, distinguished itself through its highly distinctive approach to wordplay. Unlike the structured clues found in standard crosswords, PandAs challenged solvers with clues that ingeniously hinged upon clever anagrams and, notably, what were often described as “sometimes groan-inducing wordplay,” designed to elicit a reaction from solvers.
These innovative puzzles were categorized in “puzzle parlance” as “variety puzzles,” serving as a refreshing and engaging alternative to the traditional intellectual rigor of classic crosswords. They functioned much like a “palate cleanser or side dish,” providing a different, often lighter, flavor of mental engagement that appealed to a specific taste among puzzle aficionados.
Solvers of Mr. Taub’s puzzles were tasked with the intricate challenge of decoding clues that necessitated both an understanding of how letters could be meticulously rearranged to form entirely new words and how a phrase might be interpreted through both its literal and figurative meanings to uncover a pun. This intricate combination ensured that each successful solution provided a dual sense of accomplishment: intellectual triumph mixed with a moment of comedic recognition.
The inherent beauty of Taub’s PandAs lay in their wonderfully double-edged nature: they rigorously tested one’s linguistic acumen while simultaneously delivering a welcome dose of lighthearted amusement. This dual function guaranteed that the entire process of solving was as profoundly engaging and entertaining as the final deciphered answer itself, creating a truly immersive experience.
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4. **A Divisive Yet Beloved Form**While Mel Taub’s Puns and Anagrams puzzles garnered and cultivated a deeply dedicated fan base over many years, it is important to note that they were not universally embraced by every segment of the expansive puzzle community. The context reveals that “hardcore cruciverbalists,” a group often characterized as “puzzle snobs and cryptic fanatics,” frequently regarded the PandA form as relatively “lightweight fare” when compared to their preferred, more complex challenges.
However, this perception of being less demanding did not in any way diminish its inherent appeal for those individuals who genuinely appreciated and understood its unique qualities. As the context thoughtfully clarifies, “Its pleasures are for those who enjoy a truly terrible pun and the satisfaction of spotting a clever anagram,” thereby precisely identifying the specific audience that found deep fulfillment in its inventive nature and humorous approach to language.
Deb Amlen, the prominent lead columnist for The Times’s Wordplay section, eloquently summarized Mr. Taub’s unique and somewhat affectionate standing within the puzzle-making fraternity. She warmly referred to him as “the king of the groaners in our puzzle family,” an appellation that perfectly underscored the blend of affectionate respect and good-natured acknowledgment he commanded, even for the most daring and audacious of his puns.
Ms. Amlen further elaborated on the fundamental intent behind his creative endeavors, explicitly stating that “His puzzles were designed to put a smile on your face.” This heartwarming sentiment perfectly encapsulates the enduring charm and accessibility of Taub’s entire body of work, which consistently prioritized amusement and ingenious cleverness over a rigid adherence to traditional, often austere, notions of difficulty.
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5. **The Genesis of a Tradition**The Puns and Anagrams puzzle form itself boasts a long and deeply interesting history within the esteemed pages of The New York Times, predating Mel Taub’s widespread contributions. The very first iteration of this unique puzzle concept made its debut in the newspaper’s Sunday magazine on February 15, 1942, a historically significant date that also coincided with the inaugural appearance of The Times’s very first crossword puzzle, marking a dual milestone.
This pioneering puzzle, which introduced the distinct style of Puns and Anagrams, was presented under the intriguing and evocative title of “Riddle Me This.” Intriguingly, it carried the byline “Anna Gram,” a name that has since become a subject of considerable speculation and historical inquiry among those who study the evolution of puzzles and their creators within journalistic contexts.
Will Shortz, The Times’s esteemed and long-serving puzzle editor, has thoughtfully posited his belief that “Anna Gram” was, in fact, a cleverly disguised pseudonym. He suggests it likely belonged to the paper’s very first puzzle editor, Margaret Farrar. This theory, if accurate, establishes a profound foundational link between the earliest days of The New York Times’s entire puzzle section and the nascent origins of the Puns and Anagrams format, cementing its place in the paper’s heritage.
While Mr. Taub would, in later decades, become almost synonymous with the Puns and Anagrams form through his prolific and inventive work, his contributions were built upon a rich and established tradition that had been initiated many years prior. His innovative creations then masterfully carried forward this distinctive linguistic style, significantly expanding its appeal and firmly cementing its cherished place in the hearts and minds of discerning wordplay enthusiasts.
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6. **A Presidential Endorsement**Among the multitude of puzzles crafted or contributed to by the ingenious Mel Taub throughout his illustrious career, one particular example shines brightly due to its uniquely distinguished recipient and the remarkable acknowledgment it received. The context prominently highlights a specific Puns and Anagrams puzzle, aptly titled “Hail to the Chief,” which was originally published in The New York Times Magazine on January 17, 1993.
This specific puzzle was notably a very timely and clever “homage to the newly elected president, William Jefferson Clinton.” Its publication was strategically timed, appearing just three days before his presidential inauguration. This clever integration of current events into the intricate fabric of Taub’s linguistic challenges showcased his unique ability to connect his craft to the pulse of the nation, making the puzzle feel especially relevant and engaging.
The impact of this particular puzzle proved to be quite remarkable, extending all the way to the highest office in the land, as President Clinton himself acknowledged how much he enjoyed the intellectual exercise. The President “sent back the puzzle, completed in pen, the next day,” an act that underscored his personal engagement and appreciation. This completed puzzle was accompanied by a handwritten note.
In his appreciative message, President Clinton graciously expressed how much he had savored the experience of solving the puzzle, noting that he had done so “in between spurts of speech writing.” This candid comment provides a fascinating glimpse into the life of a busy president, finding a moment of diversion in Taub’s witty creation. A sample clue from this memorable presidential puzzle, “The White House is her Everest,” with the answer “HILLARY,” perfectly encapsulates the brilliant fusion of topicality, sharp wit, and intricate anagrammatic skill that consistently characterized Taub’s exceptional body of work, earning it such a high-profile and memorable endorsement.
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7. **Roots in Brooklyn**Melvin Seymour Taub’s compelling personal story began in the vibrant borough of Brooklyn, New York, where he was born on September 4, 1928. He was the youngest of four children, a detail that offers a modest but insightful glimpse into his early family dynamics and his formative years spent within a bustling, diverse urban environment that would undoubtedly have left its mark on his developing intellect and creative sensibilities.
His parents, David and Esther (Schwartz) Taub, provided the foundational framework for his childhood and adolescence. While the provided context does not offer an extensive chronicle of his early life beyond his specific birthdate and basic family structure, his deep-seated origins in Brooklyn almost certainly played a role in shaping various facets of his worldview, his approach to language, and his subsequent prolific creative output.
Intriguingly, the family’s history includes a particularly colorful and unconventional detail concerning his father, David Taub. During the Prohibition era, a period of widespread legal restriction on alcohol, his father engaged in the illicit, yet often common, occupation of a “part-time bootlegger.” In this role, he was involved in the production of “slivovitz,” which is described as a type of fruit brandy, painting a vivid picture of the family’s resilience and resourcefulness during a challenging and transformative period in American history.
Following his period as a bootlegger, Mr. Taub’s father transitioned into more conventional and legally sanctioned employment, eventually securing a position working in a “luggage factory.” This progression from an illicit, entrepreneurial endeavor to industrial labor offers a fascinating, albeit brief, socio-economic snapshot, providing a contextual backdrop to the formative years of the future puzzle master, Mel Taub, and illustrating the adaptive spirit of his family.
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8. **Mel Taub’s Extensive Body of Work**Mel Taub’s creative output was both prolific and diverse, cementing his status as a titan in the realm of word puzzles. His journey into the pages of The New York Times began with his very first Puns and Anagrams puzzle, which made its debut in May 1951. This initial contribution marked the start of a remarkable career that would span nearly seven decades, enriching the lives of countless readers with his distinctive brand of linguistic challenge and humor.
Over the course of these many years, Mr. Taub would go on to contribute an astonishing number of puzzles to The Times. He crafted some 400 additional Puns and Anagrams creations, each meticulously designed to both delight and subtly vex his dedicated solvers. This consistent volume of work underscores his enduring passion for the craft and his remarkable ability to generate fresh and inventive wordplay over a sustained period.
Beyond his signature PandAs, Mr. Taub also showcased his versatility by contributing other forms of word puzzles. The context indicates he occasionally provided “the odd crossword” and even “the occasional cryptic.” These contributions highlight his broad understanding of cruciverbalism and his capacity to excel across different genres of intellectual amusement, further proving his mastery.
His dedication to the art of puzzle making continued well into his later years, with his last puzzle appearing in October 2019. This demonstrates an incredible longevity and an unwavering commitment to his craft, maintaining his creative output almost until the end of his long and impactful life. His consistent presence in The Times made him a familiar and cherished figure for generations of readers.
9. **The Enduring Impact on Readers**The profound impact of Mel Taub’s puzzles on his readership was undeniably significant, evoking a deep sense of connection and admiration. Following the announcement of his death, readers poured forth with their sentiments, “filling the comments with their admiration of his groan-inducing puns and sharing personal memories.” This outpouring of grief and appreciation served as a powerful testament to the genuine bond he forged with his audience through his work.
One particularly touching homage came from a reader residing in Queens, who, inspired by Mr. Taub’s own creative spirit, “dreamed up anagrams of Mr. Taub’s name, and even wrote clues for them.” This act of creative tribute perfectly encapsulated the reciprocal relationship between the puzzle master and his devoted followers, demonstrating how his genius inspired others to engage with language in a similar, playful manner.
Joe Siano, a former copy desk chief at The Times, eloquently captured the unique satisfaction derived from solving a PandA. He remarked, “The great thing about a PandA is that it rewards persistence.” Mr. Siano elaborated on the initial challenges, confessing, “Very often, on the first few pass-throughs, I think I’m never going to figure it out.” This sentiment is shared by many who appreciate the gradual unraveling of Taub’s intricate clues.
However, the payoff for this perseverance was immense. Mr. Siano noted that “if I stick with it, the dominoes start to fall and I wind up with a great sense of satisfaction.” He concluded by emphasizing the deeper purpose of these linguistic challenges: “It’s a real test of your love of words. Long may it keep puzzling us.” His words underscore the enduring mental and emotional rewards that Taub’s puzzles consistently offered, solidifying their cherished place in the hearts of word lovers.
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10. **Current Availability and Reader Demand**While Mel Taub’s legacy continues to captivate and challenge, the current availability of his Puns and Anagrams puzzles reflects a blend of tradition and evolving digital platforms. It is reassuring for long-time enthusiasts to know that “Puns and Anagrams still appears every eight weeks in print in The Times Magazine,” ensuring a continued, albeit periodic, presence for this beloved puzzle form in its traditional medium.
However, the digital landscape presents a different scenario. The context explicitly states that the puzzles are “not online” as a regular feature. This distinction highlights the unique position of PandAs, which remain tied to the print edition of The Times Magazine, setting them apart from the more readily accessible online crosswords that have become a staple for many digital subscribers and casual solvers.
The appetite for Mr. Taub’s work in the digital age was vividly demonstrated following his obituary. When The Times “published Mr. Taub’s obituary online, we included an interactive puzzle from May 2017.” This inclusion provided a rare opportunity for online readers to experience his genius firsthand, and the response was overwhelming. “Many readers completed it (in an hour or less!) and asked for more,” underscoring a significant demand.
Among those voices was Ellen from Philadelphia, who passionately articulated the collective desire: “Please, please, PLEASE resume publishing Puns and Anagrams in the Puzzle Archive!!” Despite this clear and fervent appeal, The Times has “no current plans to start publishing Puns and Anagrams puzzles online.” Nevertheless, in recognition of the strong reader interest, three additional puzzles were subsequently offered, along with answers, allowing a temporary reprieve for those yearning for more of Taub’s unique wordplay.
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11. **A Playful Genius: The Subway Trickster**Mel Taub’s genius extended beyond the intricate construction of puzzles; it encompassed a playful and often mischievous spirit that endeared him to many. A charming personal anecdote, shared by Fred from New York City, beautifully illustrates this “trickster” quality and offers a rare glimpse into the man behind the legendary puzzles. This story underscores the joy he found not just in creating, but also in the clever unraveling of linguistic mysteries.
Fred recounted an encounter Mr. Taub shared during an interview for the Brooklyn College Alumni Magazine. Mr. Taub would “always ride in the same car on the subway and would often sit across from a woman working the New York Times Crossword, as he was.” There was an unspoken camaraderie, as “They didn’t speak but would acknowledge each other and he would nod as he got off the train at Times Square.” This quiet ritual formed a unique, shared experience between two puzzle enthusiasts.
One day, this routine took an extraordinary turn. Mr. Taub opened his newspaper to find that the puzzle in question was, in fact, “one of his puzzles.” Seizing the perfect, humorous opportunity, he engaged in a delightful act of playful one-upmanship. As the woman “glanced at him, he quickly filled in all the answers, held up the page for her to see and smiled sweetly.” This bold and swift demonstration of his mastery was nothing short of brilliant.
The impact on the unsuspecting woman was immediate and memorable. Mr. Taub “said he always remembered the look of shocked surprise on the woman’s face as he got off the train.” This anecdote, with its blend of cleverness and good-natured mischief, perfectly encapsulates his character. Fred’s concluding remark, “I guess once a trickster, always a trickster,” serves as a fitting tribute to the playful genius that defined Mel Taub.
12. **A Legacy of Linguistic Artistry**Mel Taub’s legacy is not merely one of numerous published puzzles, but rather a testament to a singular form of linguistic artistry that left an indelible mark on the landscape of wordplay. He was, as Deb Amlen of The Times’s Wordplay section affectionately dubbed him, “the king of the groaners in our puzzle family.” This title perfectly captures the unique blend of challenge and lighthearted humor that defined his contributions.
His creations transcended simple intellectual exercises; they were designed with a clear and heartwarming intent. Ms. Amlen further elaborated on this, stating unequivocally, “His puzzles were designed to put a smile on your face.” This focus on joy and amusement, even amidst the intellectual rigor, is a defining characteristic of his work and a key reason for its enduring appeal among a broad audience.
Mr. Taub possessed an extraordinary aptitude for manipulating words, inverting and rearranging terms with remarkable skill to create puzzles that were both perplexing and deeply satisfying to solve. His ingenuity shaped the very definition of a specific type of word puzzle, offering a fresh perspective on lexical challenges that appealed to those who appreciated language in its most pliable and imaginative forms.
He was a master craftsman whose ingenious creations consistently graced the pages of The New York Times, bringing both stimulating challenge and genuine cheer to his devoted readership. His contributions elevated the simple act of solving a puzzle into an engaging intellectual delight, infused with his signature wit and charm, demonstrating a true mastery of his unique craft.
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13. **Inspiring Generations of Word Lovers**Mel Taub’s influence extends far beyond the number of puzzles he crafted; it resonates in the countless individuals whose “love of words” was tested, celebrated, and deepened by his work. Even as he departed this life at 97, his creative spirit continues to inspire a new generation of puzzle solvers and creators, ensuring his unique approach to language persists.
The dedicated following he cultivated, often through puzzles that were affectionately considered “lightweight fare” by some, speaks volumes about the universality of his appeal. His ability to connect with an audience through “a truly terrible pun and the satisfaction of spotting a clever anagram” created a niche that, though perhaps not for every “hardcore cruciverbalist,” was deeply cherished by many.
The outpouring of requests for more of his puzzles, even years after his last one appeared, serves as clear evidence that his ingenuity continues to be highly valued. This enduring demand underscores his lasting impact, demonstrating that the intellectual pleasures he offered remain as relevant and sought after today as they were throughout his long and distinguished career.
Ultimately, Mel Taub created more than just puzzles; he established a tradition of playful engagement with language that will continue to challenge and delight. His legacy reminds us that even the most complex intellectual pursuits can be imbued with a profound sense of humor and warmth, forever cementing his place as an unforgettable figure in the rich tapestry of The New York Times puzzle family.
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In the grand tapestry of intellectual pursuits, few individuals manage to weave a thread as distinctive and enduring as Mel Taub did with his Puns and Anagrams puzzles. His passing leaves a void, certainly, but his legacy—a harmonious blend of linguistic precision, playful wit, and a genuine desire to bring a smile to faces—will undoubtedly continue to resonate. He remains a beloved figure, “the king of the groaners,” whose ingenious work will forever remind us of the simple yet profound joy that can be found in the art of words. His contributions were a true gift to the world, perpetually inviting us to look closer, laugh louder, and appreciate the boundless possibilities of language.
