"The Declaration of Independence I always considered as a theatrical show. Jefferson ran away with all the stage effect of that... and all the glory of it"

In this quote, John Adams is expressing his opinion on the Declaration of Independence. He sees it as an efficiency, a grand screen put on by Thomas Jefferson. Adams believes that Jefferson took all the credit and attention for the Declaration, leaving none for the other starting dads. He describes it as a "theatrical show," indicating that it was a carefully crafted and significant production. Adams appears to be resentful of Jefferson's function in the Declaration, feeling that he stole the spotlight and the magnificence that ought to have been shared among all those involved. This quote highlights the intricate relationships and dynamics amongst the starting fathers during the production of the Declaration of Independence.