"It is in the nature of the New Yorker to be as topical as possible, on a level that is often small in scale and playful in intention"

This quote by Brendan Gill speaks with the distinct nature of the New Yorker. It recommends that the New Yorker is always looking to be as updated and pertinent as possible, frequently in such a way that is little in scale and playful in intention. This might suggest that the New Yorker is looking to discuss existing occasions in a manner that is lighthearted and humorous, rather than taking a severe or heavy-handed method. It could also imply that the New Yorker is seeking to talk about smaller, more localized events, instead of larger, more global ones. This quote speaks with the New Yorker's commitment to remaining present and pertinent, while also maintaining a sense of playfulness and humor.