Common origami bird - NYT Crossword Clue

Introduction

Today's clue, "Common origami bird," is a delightful and accessible entry often found in early-week puzzles. It points to one of the most iconic figures in the art of paper folding, blending a simple definition with a touch of cultural knowledge.

Clue Analysis

The clue is a straightforward definition. Let's break it down:

• "Common": This tells us we're not looking for an obscure or complex origami model. We're looking for the most famous one, the one that comes to mind first.
• "Origami": This specifies the medium - the Japanese art of folding paper into decorative shapes and figures.
• "Bird": This narrows the category of origami figures to an avian one.

When you combine these three elements, you're searching for the most well-known bird made through paper folding. For many, one specific image immediately pops into their head.

Thinking Approaches

A solver might arrive at the answer in a few ways:

1. Direct Recall: The origami crane is arguably the most famous origami design in the world. Many solvers will know this instantly from general knowledge, having seen or even folded one themselves.
2. Cultural Association: If the answer isn't immediate, a solver might think about the cultural context of origami. It's strongly associated with Japan. What birds are significant in Japanese culture? This line of thinking often leads to the correct answer, which is a symbol of peace and longevity in Japan.
3. Using Crosses: For a five-letter answer, even a few crossing letters can make it obvious. If you have C _ A _ E or _ R A _ E, the answer becomes much easier to see.

Background Context

The origami bird in question is the crane, or orizuru in Japanese. It's more than just a paper craft; it's a powerful cultural symbol. The Japanese regard the crane as a mystical creature and a symbol of good fortune and longevity.

An ancient Japanese legend promises that anyone who folds one thousand origami cranes will be granted a wish by the gods. This tradition, known as senbazuru, was popularized through the story of Sadako Sasaki, a young girl who was exposed to radiation from the atomic bombing of Hiroshima. She spent her final days folding cranes in the hope of being cured, and her story has turned the origami crane into a global symbol of peace.

Conclusion

This clue is a perfect example of an "easy" but rewarding entry. It relies on widely shared cultural knowledge and provides a pleasant "aha" moment for solvers. It's a classic for a reason, connecting a simple craft to a deep and meaningful history.

Hints

1. Hint 1: Think about traditional Japanese art forms.
2. Hint 2: This bird is a symbol of peace and long life in Japan.
3. Hint 3: A legend says that folding one thousand of these will grant a wish.
4. Hint 4: It's a large, long-legged, and long-necked bird.

The answer is CRANE.