The author describes Lincoln's attitude in making a deal with a newspaper publisher as, "almost defiant transparency.

Lincoln said his spiky hair had "a way of getting up in the world".

Looking to advance in journalism, one future editor displayed skilled as varied as economic analysis and humorous commentary.

Lincoln bought a German language newspaper.

I loved their honesty, their humility and their graciousness. They were fiercely loyal, especially to me. Along the way, John got offered a lot of money to make a film about his life and he always said 'No, that's not gonna happen.' He knew I'd protect the story, make the film he wanted made. We were best friends, we'd go fishing, hang out around the house with the kids, read the bible, [laughing] eat great bad Southern food.

Early in my career...I had to choose between an honest arrogance and a hypercritical humility... I deliberately choose an honest arrogance, and I've never been sorry.