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This clever word puzzle challenges you to identify a specific set of six letters that, when rearranged, form every missing word in the poetic lines. The elegance of the solution lies in how a single group of letters can create words with distinct meanings, all fitting seamlessly into the narrative of the poem. Each blank is filled by an anagram of the letters S-U-T-L-E-R.
The character in the poem is a "sutler," a civilian merchant who historically followed an army to sell provisions and other goods to soldiers in the field, camp, or quarters. Originating from a Dutch term that initially meant "one who does dirty work," sutlers were often the primary source for non-military items like tobacco, candy, or even alcohol, and could sometimes hold significant influence due to their monopolies. He sits on his "ulster grey," referring to a heavy, long overcoat, often made of tweed or wool, which originated in the Irish province of Ulster in the 19th century as a rugged garment for cold, windy climates.
As the sutler watches the "lustre" of parting day, meaning the brightness or sheen of the fading light, his song reveals his philosophy: "Thou rulest the weak, Thou lurest the strong." "Rulest" and "lurest" are archaic second-person singular forms of "rule" and "lure," meaning to govern or to entice. He concludes that to "Thee the result of battles belong," with "result" signifying the outcome or consequence of events. Finally, the wind carries off his song with a "rustle," the soft, whispering sound of movement, as of leaves or paper. The puzzle's charm lies in this intricate play on words, where a limited set of letters unlocks a complete and meaningful narrative.
More Challenging Trivia Questions
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We sound like Eden as a pair. Make us weight, we won't play fair. Sometimes consensus, most times schism. Usually locked away in prism. If by chance you seek, then throw. The serpent sees where we meet low. We carry freight when we meet high, But separate us, and we die.
21Unlike other rulers I am strengthened by neglect. Over my jurisdiction, great taxes I elect. When routine dues are paid, I am weakened severely. Yet if too long delayed, it may cost you quite dearly. My vault is of the flesh, my tellers silver and bone. The upkeep of the kingdom is financed with a loan.
20I have a heart that never beats, I have a home but I never sleep. I can take a mans house and build anothers, And I love to play games with my many brothers. I am a king among fools. Who am I?
19I'm the end that brings the end, I'm the one that hides. Shackles gird me waist to toe, Sealed in tower I. Ever tasked to make amends, Slowly here I die. My stricken foe you'll never know, His death is met with sigh.
19You may think me an actor; people come from all over the world to see me play my role. The play begins like all plays do – the red curtain draws aside, and I come onto the stage. There is one other actor. He is dressed in beautiful, bright clothing. I, however, am entirely naked. There are many acts in this play, in between which the other actor helps me to get dressed before the curtain reopens. He dresses me in colorful piercings and a red coat. The story we tell is a tragedy through dance. My choreography is straightforward, but if he forgets his then the play is over. Either way, I consider this a once in a lifetime performance. What role do I play?
19Twice born but once it dies. A more feline obelisk then a dairy soar. Some to royalty will rise. When seen by many they're adored. What is it?