People who leave Washington do so by way of the box... ballet or coffin.

Summary

This quote implies that once someone becomes involved in Washington, whether in politics or government, there are only two ways for them to leave: through retirement or death. It cynically suggests that individuals rarely leave their political positions willingly and highlights the idea of Washington as a place that can be difficult to detach from. The use of the words "box" and "coffin" create a stark contrast between retirement, a generally positive exit, and death, a final and negative departure.

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