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Quote by Richard Armour

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Richard Armour
Richard Armour

Richard Armour (1906-1989) was an acclaimed American poet renowned for his witty and humorous verse. A graduate of the University of Southern California, he taught at his alma mater for many years. Armour's poetry was celebrated for its clever satire, light humor, and accessible style, covering topics from everyday life to literary allusions. His collections, including "The Angry Grapes," made him one of the most popular poets in mid-20th century America. more

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“Foreign news is considered an expletive. Thoughtfully written analysis is out, 'live pops' are in. 'Action Jackson' is the cry. Hire lookers, not writers. Do powder puff, not probing interviews. Stay away from controversial subjects. Kiss ass, move with the mass, and for heaven and rating's sake, don't make anybody mad- - certainly not anybody you're covering, and especially not the mayor, the governor, the senator, the president or the vice-president or anybody in a position of power. Make nice, not news.”

“To secure the safety of the navigation of the Mississippi River I would slay millions. On that point I am not only insane, but mad... I think I see one or two quick blows that will astonish the natives of the South and will convince them that, though to stand behind a big cottonwood and shoot at a passing boat is good sport and safe, it may still reach and kill their friends and families hundreds of miles off. For every bullet shot at a steamboat, I would shoot a thousand 30-pounder Parrots into even helpless towns on Red, Ouachita, Yazoo, or wherever a boat can float or soldier march.”