Putting answer in crossword, after using pen in the beginning, results in difficulty (6)

I believe the answer is:

plight

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'difficulty' is the definition.
(plight is a kind of difficulty)

I don't understand the rest of the clue.

(Other definitions for plight that I've seen before include "State" , "Pledge; predicament" , "Promise - trouble" , "Unfortunate position" , "Jam" .)

I've seen this clue in The Hindu.

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