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June 17, 1972. Nine o'clock Saturday morning. Early for…

“June 17, 1972. Nine o'clock Saturday morning. Early for the telephone. Woodward fumbled for the receiver and snapped awake. The city editor of the Washington Post was on the line. Five men had been arrested earlier that morning in a burglary attempt at Democratic headquarters, carrying…” quote by Carl Bernstein
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“June 17, 1972. Nine o'clock Saturday morning. Early for the telephone. Woodward fumbled for the receiver and snapped awake. The city editor of the Washington Post was on the line. Five men had been arrested earlier that morning in a burglary attempt at Democratic headquarters, carrying photographic equipment and electronic gear. Could he come in?”

Carl Bernstein

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

A tense early‑morning phone call reveals a high‑stakes police investigation, highlighting urgency and danger.

In simple terms: A crucial call interrupts a quiet morning.

Key Takeaway

Stay alert to unexpected developments.

Themes

investigation urgency danger media law enforcement

Mood

tense urgent serious

Type

reportage historical

When to use this quote

  • newsrooms
  • police briefings
  • emergency response
  • political campaigns
  • legal proceedings

Key Concepts

journalism crime reporting political intrigue

Questions to Reflect On

  • What information was missing from this brief exchange?
  • How does timing affect investigative outcomes?
A Different Perspective

The focus on a single call may oversimplify complex investigations.

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