Crossword Genius

He takes on themes known to experienced types? (3,5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

the ropes

'known to experienced types?' is the definition.
(as in showing someone the ropes)

'he takes on themes' is the wordplay.
'takes on' is an insertion indicator (inserted letters are worn or taken on).
'themes' becomes 'tropes' (trope can mean a theme or idea).
'he' placed inside 'tropes' is 'THE ROPES'.

(Another definition for the ropes that I've seen is " way of operating".)

I've seen this clue in The Guardian.
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