Crossword Genius

Not pestering - the hermit, to change his way of life? (7,5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

leaving alone

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

'not pestering the hermit to change' is the definition.
I can't tell whether this defines the answer.

'his way of life?' is the wordplay.
I cannot quite see how this works, but
'way' could be 'av' (short for avenue) and 'av' is located in the answer.
'of' could be 'o' and 'o' is found within the answer.
This explanation may well be incorrect...

Can you help me to learn more?

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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