“When I retire I’m going to spend my evenings by the fireplace going through those boxes. There are things in there that ought to be burned.”
- January 9, 1913 – April 22, 1994
- American
- The 37th President of the United States, Lawyer, Politician
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Quote
“When I retire I’m going to spend my evenings by the fireplace going through those boxes. There are things in there that ought to be burned.”
Explanation
This quote reflects Richard Nixon’s awareness of the damaging contents of certain documents or records—likely related to his presidency, particularly the Watergate scandal. The phrase “things in there that ought to be burned” is especially telling, suggesting a desire to destroy evidence or at least conceal past actions that could be incriminating or embarrassing. It conveys a tone of regret, secrecy, and control, fitting with Nixon’s image as a deeply private and politically calculating figure.
The historical background of this quote is crucial. Nixon resigned in 1974, the only U.S. president to do so, after overwhelming evidence linked him to the Watergate break-in and the subsequent cover-up. The quote implies that even after leaving office, Nixon knew that boxes of files—possibly tapes, memos, or personal notes—contained material that could further damage his legacy or expose the full extent of political wrongdoing. His reference to retirement and a fireplace creates an image of quiet introspection, yet one filled with unresolved tension and moral ambiguity.
In the modern context, the quote serves as a warning about transparency and record-keeping in positions of power. Whether applied to government, business, or personal affairs, the idea that someone would rather destroy documents than face their consequences is deeply relevant in an age of digital surveillance, leaks, and whistleblowing. It underscores the importance of accountability and the ethical handling of sensitive information, reminding us that hidden truths have the potential to shape—or haunt—our public lives.
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