Crossword Genius

Things written in Times, say, suck! (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

essays

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'things' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both acts as well as being plural nouns.
Perhaps there's an association between them I don't understand?

'written in times say suck' is the wordplay.
'written in' says the answer is hidden in the clue.
'ESSAYS' can be found hidden inside 'times say suck'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for essays that I've seen before include "Written works" , "Literary compositions" , "Makes attempt to do short pieces of writing" , "Short pieces of writing as for homework" , "Makes experimental attempts" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
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