William Safire Quotes & Sayings (Page 3)

“A book should have an intellectual shape and a heft that comes with dealing with a primary subject.”

“At a certain point, what people mean when they use a word becomes its meaning.”

“Cast aside any column about two subjects. It means the pundit chickened out on the hard decision about what to write about that day.”

“Have a definite opinion.”

“One challenge to the arts in America is the need to make the arts, especially the classic masterpieces, accessible and relevant to today's audience.”

“Previously known for its six syllables of sweetness and light, reconciliation has become the political fighting word of the year.”

“Never look for the story in the 'lede.' Reporters are required to put what's happened up top, but the practiced pundit places a nugget of news, even a startling insight, halfway down the column, directed at the politiscenti. When pressed for time, the savvy reader starts there.”

“I'm a right-wing pundit and have been for many years.”

“Writers who used to show off their erudition no longer sing in the bare ruined choir of the media.”

“When infuriated by an outrageous column, do not be suckered into responding with an abusive e-mail. Pundits so targeted thumb through these red-faced electronic missives with delight, saying 'Hah! Got to 'em.'”