Papp never underestimated the power of The New York Times and took great care to keep his relationship with management in working order. Once, after a rare blow up with [Times culture czar Arthur] Gelb, the producer telephoned [A.M.] Rosenthal and asked if he might drop by the office. When the editor wanted to know what it was about, Papp said he would tell him in person. When Papp walked into Rosenthal's office, the producer asked him for a favor: Would the executive editor of the Times walk through the newsroom to the elevator with him, arm around Papp's shoulders? Rosenthal, chuckling, complied.

cjr  |  archive  |  resources  |  contact  |  search  |  subscribe