This piece blends personal reflection, the introduction of a novel holiday concept, and a detailed walkthrough of the popular word game Wordle. The author begins by discussing their creation of “Midwinter’s Day,” a holiday designed to brighten the darkest part of winter, falling between the winter solstice and the spring equinox. The intention is to create a festive occasion filled with light and feasting, a counterpoint to the often-early celebration of Christmas and the subsequent lull before spring’s arrival. The author details two key traditions: Midwinter’s Eve, observed by turning off screens and electric lights for an hour to embrace candlelight and family interaction, and Midwinter’s Day, celebrated with a hearty meal of bread and soup or stew, distinct from the traditional Thanksgiving fare. This year, the mild winter lessens the need for such a respite, but the author still intends to celebrate with family.
The author then segues into the main topic of the Wordle puzzle. They provide a hint (“Gotta do this before you can go out and play”) and a clue (the word ends with a vowel). After a spoiler warning, the answer is revealed: CHORE. A detailed analysis of the solving process follows, referencing the use of Wordle Bot, a tool that analyzes Wordle guesses. The author describes their successful two-guess solution, starting with SCORE, which yielded three green letters and one yellow, leaving only one possible solution. They express satisfaction with the quick solve, attributing it to the commonplace nature of chores.
The competitive aspect of Wordle is then explored, explaining a scoring system that awards points based on the number of guesses taken and whether the player outperforms the Wordle Bot. The author details their own score calculation, earning two points for a two-guess solution and an additional point for beating the Bot, resulting in a total of three points. A comprehensive explanation of the competitive Wordle scoring rules is provided, outlining the point system for guesses from one to six, including penalties for missed Wordles. The system incorporates bonus points for beating the Bot and double points on Fridays (2XP). Players can track their scores daily or reset each day.
The etymology of the word “chore” is examined, tracing its origins back to Middle English and Old English terms meaning “turn” or “occasion,” reflecting a turn of work or a task. The word’s meaning evolved to specifically denote routine household duties, with the current spelling emerging in 18th-century American English. This etymological exploration adds a layer of linguistic depth to the Wordle solution.
Finally, the author encourages reader engagement by inviting them to share their Wordle experiences on various social media platforms and to connect with their other content, including a YouTube channel, blog, and newsletter. The blog covers games, TV shows, and movies, further demonstrating the author’s interest in entertainment and culture. The newsletter promises additional reviews and commentary on these topics. This concluding section effectively promotes the author’s wider online presence and invites further interaction with their audience. The piece thus combines personal reflection, game analysis, and self-promotion, creating a multi-faceted engagement with the reader.
Expanding further on the author’s proposed Midwinter’s Day, one can imagine the potential for this holiday to evolve and grow within families and communities. The core principles of embracing light and warmth during the darkest part of winter resonate deeply with human needs and desires. The focus on family interaction, unplugged from the distractions of modern technology, speaks to a growing awareness of the importance of mindful presence and connection. The simple act of sharing a meal, prepared with care and enjoyed together, reinforces the sense of community and shared experience.
The screen-free evening of Midwinter’s Eve provides an opportunity to rediscover simpler forms of entertainment and connection. Families might engage in storytelling, board games, or simply conversation, fostering a sense of togetherness and shared experience. The flickering candlelight creates a warm and intimate atmosphere, encouraging a slower pace and a focus on the present moment. This intentional disconnection from the digital world allows for a deeper connection with oneself and with loved ones.
Midwinter’s Day, with its focus on a shared meal, offers a chance to celebrate the bounty of the season, even in the midst of winter’s chill. The author’s suggestion of a hearty soup or stew, accompanied by freshly baked bread, evokes a sense of comfort and nourishment. This meal, distinct from the elaborate feasts of other holidays, emphasizes simplicity and warmth. It’s a time to savor the flavors of the season and appreciate the simple pleasures of good food and good company.
The potential for Midwinter’s Day to become a cherished tradition lies in its adaptability and personal meaning. Families can create their own unique rituals and traditions, tailoring the celebration to their own preferences and values. Some might choose to incorporate elements of nature, such as decorating with evergreen boughs or taking a winter walk. Others might focus on creative expression, making homemade crafts or writing winter-themed poetry. The possibilities are endless, allowing for a truly personalized and meaningful celebration.
In a world increasingly dominated by technology and fast-paced living, Midwinter’s Day offers a welcome respite, a chance to slow down, connect with loved ones, and embrace the quiet beauty of winter. It’s a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always light to be found, both within ourselves and in the warmth of human connection. The author’s simple idea has the potential to blossom into a cherished tradition, bringing light and warmth to the heart of winter for generations to come. The contrast between this reflective, personal introduction and the subsequent deep dive into the intricacies of Wordle gameplay adds an unexpected dimension to the piece, highlighting the diverse interests and passions of the author.
