Four unclued lights (two of which consist of two words each) belong in the same category; one unclued light defines them. Remaining unclued lights are the surnames of their creators. Each of twenty-seven clues comprises a definition part and a hidden consecutive jumble of the answer including one extra letter; the extras are the unchecked letters of all nine unclued lights. Elsewhere ignore an accent.
 

Across

 
1    Defeat leader in every way (5)
9    Untidy tapestry one turned, enthralled by colour with depth (10)
11    Load knocking arch over (5)
14    Learned man, no villain (5)
15    Peculiar ghost of depression (5)
16    Single healer’s claim (6)
21    Molluscs in rotary motors (8)
22    Marsupial passed rat, running (7)
24    Higher bit above ski-lift (4, hyphened)
25    Miss rare displays (4)
27    Seek hot tracks in addition (7)
28    Pedestals decay among trees (8)
33    Alternation of notes under pilot light (6)
34    Gynaecologist spoke elegantly (5)
37    Riddles permeating story (7)
38    Drop estimated rates (5)
39    Dry retreat containing a desk (10)
41    Fool with alien item of property (5)
 

Down

 
2    Tale recording response by god (6)
4    Bad law emissary lamented (6)
5    Minor lie about appendage (4)
6    Muddled start reviewed (7)
7    Survival gave girl confidence (5)
8    Crime not earning mark of honour (8)
10    Student of grass roots worked with lecturer in past on main point (13)
13    Absolute monster playing (7)
17    Prepare urgent trial (6)
18    Short, for example, short of a bob (6)
19    Beginner relegated in due order (7, two words)
23    Relax rule nun checked (8)
26    Took map as reliable guide for sailors (7)
29    Volcanic argument one avoided (6)
31    Official presents pass (6)
32    Big tree lumberjacks tackle (5)
36    Pot roast left (4)
 
A first prize of £30 for the first correct solution opened on 7 September. There are two runners-up prizes of £20. (UK solvers can choose to receive the latest edition of the Chambers Dictionary instead of cash— ring the word ‘Dictionary’.) Entries to: Crossword 2225, The Spectator, 22 Old Queen Street, London SW1H 9HP. Please allow six weeks for prize delivery.