Crossword Clue:

a reply or reaction

AnswerCrossword Clue
OUCHReaction to a pun or a punch
DOUBLETAKESurprised reaction ... or a hint to what can precede both halves of the answers to the starred clues
TORAHSacred text ... or your reaction upon figuring out this puzzle's theme?
MANIAReaction to the Beatles in 1964 or Justin Bieber in 2010
MYLIPSARESEALEDReply to 20- or 37-Across