Agree with you about context, but believe me, just the saying or writing of the word - even in an innocent context such as the one under discussion - can lead to extreme censure and sanctions. Tbh, I'm surprised the word wasn't auto asterisked on here, like it is when you try and type **** or ****.
But 45 years later, he appears to have got away with typing the N' word - albeit without any attempt or intention to abuse anyone - without being flamed about gawd knows how many times!