Hailing Frequencies Open Speaker: WSJ Crossword Celebrates Star Trek Icon
By: warner
Have you ever been stumped by a crossword clue that seemed to come from another galaxy? If you’re a fan of cryptic crosswords, chances are you’ve encountered a few head-scratchers in your day. One such clue that has been making the rounds lately, particularly in The Wall Street Journal crossword puzzle, involves a certain iconic phrase from the Star Trek universe: “Hailing frequencies open.”
From Starship to Crossword: The Story Behind the Clue
The phrase “hailing frequencies open” is intrinsically linked with Star Trek and its portrayal of futuristic communication. In the Star Trek universe, before engaging in interstellar chit-chat, characters often use this phrase to signal their readiness to receive incoming transmissions.
So, how did this phrase from a beloved sci-fi franchise end up in the esteemed pages of The Wall Street Journal crossword? The answer lies in the enduring popularity of Star Trek and its impact on popular culture. Crossword puzzle creators, like Mike Shenk of the WSJ, often draw inspiration from movies, TV shows, books, and other cultural touchstones to craft challenging and entertaining clues.
Who Said It? Unmasking the Crossword Answer
If you’ve been struggling to pinpoint the speaker of the famous “hailing frequencies open” line in the WSJ crossword, fret no more! The answer is none other than Lieutenant Nyota Uhura, the brilliant communications officer of the USS Enterprise.
Uhura, portrayed by the trailblazing actress Nichelle Nichols, was a groundbreaking character in many ways. Not only was she a skilled officer in a position of authority, but her presence on the bridge of the Enterprise during the turbulent 1960s challenged racial barriers and inspired generations.
More Than Just a Puzzle: The Deeper Meaning
The inclusion of “hailing frequencies open” in the WSJ crossword, especially in a clue honoring Nichelle Nichols, speaks volumes about the enduring legacy of both Star Trek and its iconic characters. It suggests that:
Star Trek’s cultural impact remains strong: Even decades after its debut, Star Trek continues to resonate with audiences and inspire puzzle creators.
Representation matters: Featuring Uhura and her signature phrase in a prestigious publication like the WSJ highlights the importance of diversity and inclusion in all aspects of our culture, even in something as seemingly simple as a crossword puzzle.
Crosswords reflect our shared experiences: By incorporating clues from popular culture, crossword puzzles can spark conversations, evoke nostalgia, and connect people through shared interests.
Ready to Beam Up Your Crossword Skills?
Next time you encounter a crossword clue that seems out of this world, don’t despair! A little creative thinking and a dash of pop culture knowledge might be all you need to crack the code. And who knows? You might even learn something new along the way – like the enduring power of a simple phrase from a beloved sci-fi series.
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