"All literary men are Red Sox fans - to be a Yankee fan in a literate society is to endanger your life"

In this quote, author John Cheever is making a funny declaration about the extreme rivalry between the Boston Red Sox and the New York Yankees. He suggests that in a society where literature and intellectualism are extremely valued, it is practically sacrilegious to be a fan of the Yankees. Cheever implies that being a Red Sox fan is the more appropriate and even anticipated option for those who consider themselves to be well-read and cultured. He exaggerates the effects of being a Yankee fan, indicating that it is an unsafe and out of favor choice in a society that values literary pursuits. Overall, Cheever's quote highlights the strong cultural significance and enthusiasm surrounding sports teams, even in the world of literature.