Last Words?

Dear Editor,

Hello again.

They say beware the elder swordsman, so perhaps it’s best Captain Billy claims disinterest in our crossing paths [“Crossing Swords,” Feedback, April 3]. It suits me fine to keep sheathed my own Blue Steel. Instead of resolution by deadly combat, I propose the Chronicle utilize its Solomon-like wisdom and consider publishing two crosswords for a time, letting its readership decide on which to keep.  

See, I like a crossword I can confidently work in pen. Captain Billy seems to prefer one of a tougher jib. More of a pencil man, perhaps? Not so much a “crash” pad as a “stamp” pad, mon Capitaine? A dumb clue for sure, but to each his own – that’s what erasers were invented for.

Should any spirits be roused to further discussion (of the non-Reddit variety, notably in my camp), they can find me drowning my Tax Day sorrows at an upstairs Bukowskian haunt known for last calls, if not Last Words. I would understand if such a late-night venture strikes Captain Billy as too bold, but any OG Austinite must know the weirdest encounters sometimes require a venture onward, through the fog.

The pen is mightier,

Ethan Smith

This article appears in April 10 • 2026.

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