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I run a couple of newspapers. What do you do?

— Kane • Citizen Kane

Painterly rolled newspaper beside a magnifying glass, dark ink bottle and writing implements.
Original artwork
Behind the line May contain spoilers.

Our reading

An editorial interpretation.

The speaker describes his work in a casual phrase, then immediately asks the other person to account for theirs. 'A couple of newspapers' makes an impressive occupation sound ordinary. The exchange can suggest understatement or competition, depending on how that returning question is heard.

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