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Dylan, I too have both parts of 25 across and can make a 5 letter word using a method similar to that for 5 down. This makes me wonder whether a similar method should be used for all double clues.

Thank you for this forum, Norah.

At 74 I'm way too old to spend what would be at least a day of my life with this beast!😊

Dylan, 13A is in OED remember. It’s the obvious 7 letters.

This is extremely tough, borderline unfair, depending on where you stand, but it does all work out perfectly. Those who lament too many easy ones can’t complain when thrown a stinker, but I’m not sure I’d want one every week!

Quisling, are we to understand that you have completed this puzzle?

I wouldn't call it borderline unfair, but I would call it really hard. Amazing that it all comes together.

I'm with bobbycollins, as a septuagenarian and just recovering from RSV, I'll sit this one out.

Buddy, on reflection I agree with you, because I was able to get to the end through logic, dogged persistence and no trial and error. It was indeed just very, very hard. But I’m not really sure what would make a puzzle unfair, other than a misleading preamble. Is there a reasonable limit to how much cold solving needs to be done before a gridfill can start? I don’t know

Quisling, the infamous HARE was monstrously unfair. I’m stuck with 15 and 19 and would welcome pointers.

Finally completed after many hours! I don't think it's 'borderline unfair' as the puzzle is solvable. However not exactly enjoyable, a bit of a slog.
I do indeed comment when puzzles seem too easy, and I am grateful for a much harder challenge from Artix. Thanks.