"…the life of kings."

-30- - After five seasons and enough plaudits to fill a thesaurus, The Wire exits the stage after its final act, with its crown firmly in place.

"Deserve Got Nuthin' To Do With It"

Late Editions - Because if it did, Michael, Bug, and Dukie would be able to live happily ever after. But that's not going to happen -- ever. Meanwhile, McNulty looks like he's about to get what he deserves for this serial killer business.

"A Lie Ain't A Side Of A Story. It's Just A Lie."

Clarifications - It's a race to see what happens first -- McNulty and Freamon getting the goods on Marlo, or McNulty's web of lies unraveling. The clock seems to be moving closer to midnight for Templeton as well. And for Omar? Time's up.

"They Don't Teach It In Law School"

Took - Clay Davis takes Bond and Pearlman to school, while McNulty learns a lesson about unintended consequences. Too bad he's not a very quick study.

"If you have a problem with this, I understand completely."

The Dickensian Aspect - Kidnapping a homeless guy and driving him 150 miles away, so that you can use him to perpetuate your serial-killer hoax -- who could possibly have a problem with that? I mean, other than every moderately ethical human being. Which pretty much explains why McNulty does exactly that, I guess.

"Read Between The Lines: I Will Take Your Head Off Your Shoulders"

The Chris Ashworth Interview - ...with kindness! Chris Ashworth may play a Russian heavy on The Wire, but in real life, he's the picture of manners. Here, he talks about hanging out with Method Man, fending off attackers, and his second favorite TV show.

"Just 'Cause They're In The Street Doesn't Mean That They Lack Opinions."

React Quotes - But what if their opinions aren't very interesting? Well, if you're Templeton, you make up opinions for them. And then you invent a phone conversation between you and the serial killer. And, if you're McNulty, you play along.

"Buyer's Market Out There"

Transitions - Scott Templeton learns that the Washington Post isn't in the market for writers whose ambition exceeds their accomplishments. Burrell learns that Baltimore isn't in the market for police commissioners who fudge stats. But Proposition Joe learns the ultimate lesson -- never trust Marlo. At all.

"They're Dead Where It Doesn't Count"

Not For Attribution - Lester's in on McNulty's serial killer; there's a shake-up at The Sun as well as in the command structure of the police department; Clay Davis's Grand Jury investigation continues; Michael and Dukie have a day at Six Flags; and Chris and Snoop kill Butchie while Marlo cleans his cash. Omar is notified. That's right: Omar.

"This Ain't Aruba, Bitch."

Unconfirmed Reports - Walon urges Bubs to open up, Michael learns a harsh lesson about the streets, Marlo meets the Russian, and McNulty fakes a crime scene.

The Old Wire Thread

Spoilers: Fit for a Burner

Wire in the Media: Clippings and Clipped Ties

5-10: "- 30 -" 2008.03.09

Questions From The New or Confused: Confidential Informants

The Quotes Topic: "Either Play, or Get Played"

The Meet Market: Drinks at the Tracks

Unforgettable Moments: Well, Get on With It Mother-

The Cast in Other Roles: Beyond Baltimore

5-9: "Late Editions" 2008.03.02