LITERARYCRITIC

EARCANALARCANASecrets known only to E.N.T.s? PAPERCUTAPERCU"A sharp edge recalls a splinter's bite" or "The forest's final revenge is whisper-thin," e.g.? ELICITFELICITYSpark joy? BRUSHWITHSAUCEDental advice from Lea & Perrins? FLAKEWITHAFORKDinner guest who refuses to use chopsticks and probably won't show up? LASTINBLASTINGLike the world's worst demolition company? THECORNISGREEN1938 semi-autobiographical play by Emlyn Williams AHARDDAYSNIGHT1964 Richard Lester film featuring The Beatles DOUBLENEGATIVEPessimistic after large drink, producing bad grammar CAULIFLOWEREARVegetable lying next to organ causes an injury VERBALCONTRACTFlimsy agreement making abuse shrink ITSNOTTHATHARD"Why must you overcomplicate everything?," or what can be said about 16-, 24-, 49-, and 58-Across TOAGREATEXTENTLargely reaching wonderful range DOWNINTHEMOUTHWhere dentist looks miserable (4,2,3,5)