What was the reaction when Datebook reprinted the interview?

• A. A firestorm of controversy and protest
• B. Increased album sales in the United States
• C. The band received political endorsements
• D. Radio stations invited Lennon for more interviews

Answer: (A)

When provocative statements are given wider exposure, the public reaction often centers on backlash and protest, not endorsements or easy opportunities for more coverage. Reprinting the interview brought the remarks to a national audience in the United States, and it sparked a strong wave of reaction from religious groups and concerned citizens. The result was a firestorm of controversy and protest—church leaders denouncing the remarks, protests at events, and radio stations pulling or limiting Beatles songs. This kind of immediate, organized pushback is why that option best captures what happened. The other outcomes—favorable sales boosts, political endorsements, or more interview requests—did not define the immediate response to this reprint.