Please see below for PCC#2 - "I'm So Vain I Probably Think This Puzzle's About Me" originally posted on Crosshare with intended date of publication of 08/07/23
[Level 1] Meta prompt: The answer to the meta is a prolific crossword constructor who has published over 100 puzzles with the NY Times.
[USEFUL LINK: https://www.xwordinfo.com/Cards?select=topcons]
Note: the level is the intended difficulty I had in mind when I designed the puzzle, but may play differently since every solver has their own area of expertise... what one person may find easy, another may find difficult.
Have fun and keep in mind if you're ever lost at sea, google is your best friend (actually, I don't know if you'd get internet service in the middle of the ocean)
-Phil
I'm So Vain I Probably Think This Puzzle's About Me
crosshare
PUZ
Note: The Crosshare version of the puzzle lists this as "Puzzle #68" (PCC#2)... this is NOT part of the meta - I used to number my non-meta puzzles and continued my numbering system before transitioning over to meta puzzles
Nudges below:
Hint #1:
) Hint #2:
Hint #3:
Solution below - SPOILER ALERT:
Answer explanation: