Meaning: The quote "People who leave Washington do so by way of the box... ballet or coffin" by Claiborne Pell, a politician, is a reflection on the entrenched nature of politics and power in Washington, D.C. It implies that those who enter the political arena in the nation's capital often become so deeply entrenched in the system that they ultimately leave either through retirement, defeat at the ballot box, or death.

Claiborne Pell, the author of the quote, was a United States Senator from Rhode Island who served for 36 years. His long tenure in the Senate likely provided him with a unique perspective on the ways in which individuals navigate the political landscape in Washington, D.C. Pell's quote suggests a certain inevitability to the departure of individuals from the political sphere, and the three options he presents—retirement, electoral defeat, or death—underscore the challenges and consequences of political life.

The first part of the quote, "People who leave Washington do so by way of the box," suggests that some individuals leave their political careers behind through retirement or voluntarily stepping down from their positions. This can be seen as a metaphorical "box," representing the structured and often confining nature of political life. The decision to leave the political arena voluntarily can be a difficult one, as it may require individuals to relinquish power and influence that they have worked hard to attain.

The second part of the quote, "ballet or coffin," alludes to the electoral process and the potential for individuals to leave Washington through defeat at the ballot box. In the context of American politics, the electoral process is often described as a ballet, symbolizing the choreographed and sometimes theatrical nature of campaigns and elections. However, the juxtaposition of "ballet" with "coffin" suggests that for some politicians, the electoral process can be a harsh and unforgiving arena, where defeat can lead to the end of their political careers.

The final part of the quote, "or coffin," is a somber reminder of the mortality that all individuals face, regardless of their status or position. In the context of the quote, it emphasizes the fact that some politicians may remain in office until their passing, highlighting the deep-rooted nature of their involvement in politics. It also serves as a stark reminder of the toll that political life can take on individuals, both in terms of the stress and demands of the job, as well as the potential for a prolonged and all-consuming commitment to public service.

Overall, the quote by Claiborne Pell captures the enduring and inescapable nature of political life in Washington, D.C. It reflects the challenges and complexities of political careers, as well as the ways in which individuals may ultimately depart from the political sphere. Whether through retirement, electoral defeat, or the passage of time, the quote underscores the profound impact that political life can have on those who partake in it.