Anyone who read Charles Krauthammer’s writing, saw him speak on television, or knew anything about his incredible life story could tell you he was exceedingly intelligent. Those who knew Charles well also speak about his dry sense of humor. I often think of the time I witnessed Charles combine those two qualities in a small, but memorable, feat of razor-sharp wit.
It was last June, during THE WEEKLY STANDARD’s annual summit at the Broadmoor Resort in Colorado Springs. A perennial favorite, Charles was very gracious at these events, agreeing to offer the chance for any conference goer to get a professional photo with him. The line was always long, and Charles cheerfully posed with every last person. The last panel of the weekend was one long Q&A session featuring all the speakers, including Charles. Near the middle of the panel, one audience member stood up and launched into an extended metaphorical question directed at Charles and his criticism of President Trump.
“It’s the seventh game of the World Series, bases loaded, the Nationals are behind by four runs, two outs, ” the man said. “The batter comes up who’s never played all season, because he’s been injured. First pitch, first hit, smacks it out of the stadium, and they win the World Series. Would anybody ask him what his batting average is?”
Charles, a big Washington Nationals fan, didn’t miss a beat, “Yes, wonderful, splendid thing,” he began. “What if the ball hits the light tower, sparks an electrical fire, burns down the stadium, and thousands die?” The overwhelmingly pro-Trump room burst into laughter and applause and Charles unfurled a small smile, adding sagely, “Everything carries a risk.”
His retort was incredibly quick, darkly funny, unexpected, good-natured, and profound—all characteristics of Charles himself. A few of us flew back to Washington with Charles that night, and that was the last time I saw him in person. In two months he would undergo surgery to start a painful journey from which he did not recover. He’ll be celebrated now and for decades to come for his staggering intellect, his incisive commentary, and the example offered by a life challenged by physical struggle. I’ll remember all of that, of course, but also that terrific little moment in Colorado Springs.
