"I didn't dig it out, it was given to me. They thought it was significant, they gave me the name and I used it"

The quote by Bob Novak, a prominent American reporter and political analyst, discuss the notion of getting and disseminating info, in addition to the responsibilities and implications that feature such actions. Novak recommends that the details he got was not actively looked for; rather, it was offered to him, probably by a source who considered it to be of value.

The phrase "I didn't dig it out" suggests that Novak did not engage in investigative journalism to reveal the details. Rather, it was "provided to me", showing a passive function in the acquisition of the information. This statement can be analyzed as Novak distancing himself from taking complete responsibility for the consequences of revealing the info. It subtly shifts focus to the source who supplied him with the product, recommending they held a belief in its significance.

The next part of the quote, "They thought it was considerable", further underscores that the source viewed the details as significant or impactful. This highlights a key element of journalism: the reliance on sources and their judgments about what makes up newsworthy or vital information. Novak is suggesting that he relied on the judgment of his source in figuring out the worth of the details.

Last but not least, the phrase "they gave me the name and I used it" speaks with Novak's role as a channel between the source and the general public. As a reporter, Novak's job was to communicate details he deemed to be of public interest, utilizing his platform to notify the masses. This phrase can also suggest a recommendation of his company in maybe lending credibility to the name by picking to release it.

Overall, the quote captures the intricate interaction between source confidentiality, journalistic obligation, and the possible ramifications of sharing delicate info in the general public sphere. It reflects the fragile balance press reporters navigate in between the pursuit of openness and the ethical considerations of their occupation.