Among other things, William Safire (Dec. 17, 1929 – Sept. 27, 2009) was a longtime syndicated political columnist for The New York Times and wrote the “On Language” column in The New York Times Magazine about popular etymology, new or unusual usages, and other language-related topics.
In 1978, Safire won the Pulitzer Prize for Commentary on [director of the Office of Management and Budget] Bert Lance’s alleged budgetary irregularities. Safire’s column on October 27, 1980, entitled “The Ayatollah Votes,” was quoted in a campaign ad for Ronald Reagan in that year’s presidential election. Safire also frequently appeared on the NBC’s Meet the Press.
— Wikipedia
Quotes: The wonderful thing about being a New York Times columnist is that it’s like a Supreme Court appointment — they’re stuck with you for a long time.” | “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.’ ”
— BrainyQuote
Learn more about William Safire from Wikipedia. ►
Watch “In Lincoln’s Hand: William Safire” [2:13]. ►
Watch “Oral History: William Safire” [4:43]. ►
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