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One would flatter himself with the illusion that he has an unassailably durable sense of equanimity, and that the same is availably sufficient in the face of universal stimuli. However, we have experienced so many failures of restraint as to be effectively disabused of this comfortable and self-serving fantasy.

By way of illustration only, we cite the following common experience.  We find it almost impossible to maintain our studied resolve to remain calm, when (on an especially cold or hot day) we are met with so many iterations of the banal attempt at social interaction, namely, “Cold (or “hot”) enough for you?” Are these thoughtless inanities inquiries as to taste, sensitivity, preference, nuanced tolerance or judicial determination? Who knows? “Enough”and “for you,” are indeed, more than “enough for us.”

We find much more unsettling than the above illustration, the frequently repeated Emerson misquote, “Consistency is the hobgoblin of small minds.” This utterance is usually made pedantically and in a confidant, pseudo-philosophical tone. A suggested reply to this “educative” intimation is “Ugh.” Emerson is certainly due a great many sincere apologies, since he in fact, said no such thing.

Emerson did believe that those who consistently adhere to disproven theories were fools (“small minds”). The great philosopher and author felt that the element of “consistency” is essential in man’s life; to societal interaction, scientific inquiry (cause and effect), to a just and consistent application of the law to all, as well as to societal and family expectations, relating to roles and responsible behavior.

He correctly is quoted as stating, “Foolish consistency is the hobgoblin of small minds…” The operative and crucial word in Emerson’s famous observation, is the first one, “foolish.” It is disconcerting to hear so many pseudo-savants, confidently intone the misquoted version and thereby falsely portray this revered thinker as opposing the many virtues of consistency.

Emerson, in the celebrated statement, was observing that the adamant refusal to change one’s views, despite the appearance of new evidence, or facts to the contrary, was foolish consistency. He also maintained that the consistent exposition of matters which were not adequately researched, or were not shown to be inaccurate, were similarly, foolish. Most particularly, he was opposed to the refusal to change one’s previous assumptions despite the appearance of a material change in facts or circumstance. A current, and apt, illustration is the refusal of many members of Congress to change their traditional political opinion on the subject of man’s participation in climate change, despite the unified finding to such effect by virtually all leading scientists. This appears to be “political hobgoblinry” of the very worst kind.

Emerson was not alone among the famous thinkers urging the acceptance of new and better ideas and opposing the obstinate adherence to previously prevailing but later disproven assumptions. William Huxley said” the only truly consistent people are the dead”. Oscar Wilde said that “consistency is the last refuge of the unimaginative.”

 

{This note on Emerson, and his observation on irrational consistency (as opposed to an enlightened progress of understanding and adjustment to new developments) has intentionally omitted any but this mere reference to that blatant inconsistency which appears to be an unfortunate feature of our current  federal administration and  which it seems is  based upon tactical  chicanery and evident  disrespect for the informed citizen.}

And so, our most sincere and contrite apologies to the venerable Ralph Waldo Emerson, for all the past misleading misquotes, and for those many others, predictably, yet to be made.

-p.

Lost in deep reverie, perilously close to the reach of Morpheus, we find ourselves, spiritually and meditatively, in the company of the great philosopher, Aristotle. While thus visiting, I remembered that it was that great sage that famously and wisely observed, “We are busy [so] that we can have leisure.”

We have, of course, eternally extolled the great wisdom of the sages. However, by stark contrast, we have consistently expressed contempt for the inane, pedestrian aphorism (see previous writing, “The Arrogance of Aphorisms”) they are uniformly and consistently, devoid of reason or any empirical utility, whatsoever, and are the exclusive and willing inheritance of only lazy, seldom used minds.

One such particularly despicable, and unfortunately traditional, admonition is “Idle hands are the devil’s workshop.” This gross perversion of the human intellect is downright insulting and immensely irritating, especially in its implicit view of the innate evil inclination of mankind.  In view of our intention that “Leisure” be the theme of this writing, it appears that a further look at this atavistic travesty may be useful, possibly even, somewhat illuminating.

To “part the curtain” in said critique, one is enabled  to evaluate the mind-set and the degree of rationality, of the folks who find  guidance in this behavioral rule, by its reference to the medieval existence of a “devil,” a malevolent entity that superstition says, urges man to sin. Contemporary humans, of every stripe, understand that man’s potential to do good, or otherwise, stems from his socialization and resultant self-image, and not some superstitious third-party agency.

It takes only the most elementary analysis to conclude that the “idle hands” concept, (even, possibly, as a metaphor) deprecates the capabilities and the essential nature of mankind in a most insulting and defamatory way. Inarguably, the greatest evolutionary gift to mankind is his developed capacity for reason, the essential basis for his successful presence on this planet. Indeed, most primates do have “hands” and also employ tools for food gathering, but lack the extent of reason and advanced self-awareness of man (remember Adam?). In addition to manual labor, let us also contemplate Descartes and Socrates as well as Silicon Valley.

It is especially vexing to understand this express admonition which, inarguably, states that to the extent man is busy, he will have no opportunity to practice his predisposition to do evil.  This is, indeed a jaw-dropping , pessimistic and negative appraisal of the nature of man.

The metamorphosis of our society, from essentially agrarian to a largely industrial one, resulted in new emphasis on the importance of work and production; this necessitated a proportionate decline in the personal life of the individual. The societal promulgation of the significance of work and production so penetrated man’s collective psyche that he began to associate his identity and self-image with what he does for a living. While it is true that the concept of “work” is philosophically and etymologically distinct from the conception of “morality” it became, too emblematic of value in our society which placed an inordinate emphasis on profitable production; the same has developed into a secular  mantra under the name “work ethic” ; those who are seen as lacking that ethic are often the recipients of overt societal disapproval. This new measure of human acceptability and worth has made scheduled retirement a difficult passage for many who were caused to associate their identity with their work. Retirees who have developed personal resources and interests, unrelated to their employment have an easier transition; in fact, many see this period as a grant of freedom to be themselves at long last, and to pursue the interests cultivated on weekends and other breaks from work. For others, the adjustment may take longer. It is hoped that most retirees will avail themselves of their new opportunity to uncover the person they always were and the interests they would have pursued, if not for work. While society benefited from his previous employment productivity, it, and especially he, will doubtless also benefit from his freedom for self-enhancement and personal self-realization.

Leisure time is not best described, merely by the freedom from work obligations, or release from the duty to produce commercial goods and services. Indeed, leisure time affords the rare and valuable opportunity to be personally productive, intellectually and otherwise, and to freely explore subjects deferred by necessity to work.  There is great joy in the realization of discovered self-determination, of being free to be yourself on an unlimited basis, as opposed to limited work breaks and weekends.

To those who, are so effectively brainwashed by industrial dogma that they continue to adhere to the opinion that the practice of leisure is a waste of valuable time , Aristotle would again observe (as he did when, in his day he received  similar opinions ) that it was their leisure that enabled the Egyptians to invent the study of mathematics. You go Aristotle!

-p.

 

We’ve been told: the ancient bard,
Could hear the “music of the spheres.”
We have since seen harmony on high,
But astral strains never were heard.
We do hear the music of “our” sphere,
Whose virtuosos perform in nature’s realm.
One has but to attend to hear.

The splash of raindrops on trembling leaves,
The whistled wind-song thru tall dark reeds,
The high pitch scratch of cricket limbs,
The basso profundo of bull frog croaks,
The redundant “coo” of mourning doves,
The baby sounding off for the mom,
The wolf intoning his baritone aria,
The countless chirps of little birds,
The gleeful chatter of sportive chipmunks,
The staccato sound of barking dogs,
The brassy honks of overflying geese,
The lakes soft slosh on muddy banks.

One can, in truth, faintly hear,
If he listens, most meditatively,
The upward thrust of perennial plants,
The final melt of tardy snow,
Spring, is that really you?
Have you just returned?
Welcome, do come in, Spring, my love.
Bienvenue!

-p.

It is understandable but unfortunate, that the current level of societal angst and figurative handwringing is virtually palpable. There appears to be a disturbing, wistful mind-set that the former, settled and predictable American way of life is now a feature of some bygone era. The previously declining state of civic amity has all but disappeared; any attempt, however polite, to debate a contrary political opinion with another is predictive of a response featuring rancor and expressed hatred.

This exotic atmosphere is proximately related to a sea change in the character and intention of Washington, by virtue of the past presidential election which saw the elevation of an egocentric poser, lacking the requisite aptitude to be entrusted with an entry level job at a multi-national corporation, to the role of its CEO. The multi-national corporate conglomerate in this case, is the United States of America, the most powerful and determinative nation on the planet, and as well, the acknowledged leader of the free world. This shallow, intemperate game show host and real estate conniver, now frighteningly, has the destiny of our nation legally under his control, and his small hands potentially on the awesome nuclear trigger. There is absolutely no basis for confidence in this snake-oil salesman who ignorantly derides scholarship and intelligence in favor of biased reductionism. Our previously repeated observation, that the combination of ignorance with (unjustified) confidence is lethal, now has sufficient in vitro laboratory proof.

It required only a short period of time after he took office to frighten and confuse every rational person on the globe, both national and international.  Our elected office holders and legislative representatives, as well as the leaders of foreign countries have been eternally confounded with his rash and poorly conceived statements, publicly imparted by means of the unseemly use of “twitter” technology.

He has attacked the media and the Courts, the only two institutions, in fact, protecting the American citizen.  He has brazenly violated every presidential sacrament, the conflict of interest prohibition, the uniform obligation of presidents to furnish tax returns; he has shamelessly installed members of his immediate family as functionaries in the White House and has participated in treasonous liaison with the Russian government.

His perverse appointments to leadership of the various departments of government have been those who have committed treasonous acts with Russia, others that have no experience or knowledge of their department and some who have even expressed opposition to their respective department. His state of awareness as to his total incapacity to perform and direct the responsibilities of presidential office has occasioned a co-dependency relationship with a chief advisor, Steven Bannon. Mr. Bannon is known as a proudly self-identified white supremacist who suffers from the paranoid delusion that there will be a future Armageddon- scale war between white Christianity and Islam and, since Russia is white and Christian, it will be our ally; these clinically diagnosable delusions may serve to explain the recent, unprecedented White House tilt toward our perennial opponent, Russia.

If more were needed to fuel our anxiety, the new President has dismissed the ominous concerns and findings of our leading scientists as to the planetary danger of carbon activated climate warming in favor of courting the large financiers of his candidacy, the despoilers of our planet, the coal and oil industrial magnates. The express intention of the present administration is to grant favorable tax treatment to such billionaires and others of the extremely rich category, to the detriment of the lower and middle class voters who supported him specifically based upon his diametrically opposite assurances.

As a nation of immigrants, our traditional open door policy, symbolized by The Statue of Liberty, Emma Lazarus and Ellis Island, has now given way to unfriendly suspicion, restriction and selectivity of newcomers.

BUT! Contemporaneously with, and totally independent of the above dire events, something wonderful is making its joyful return. In many areas, the soil has started to soften, perennial roots are twitching excitedly, various green shoots are awaiting their solar cue for emergence; small furry animals are cautiously peeping out from cover and wrinkling their tiny noses to gauge the coming change to the warmer season; tender bulbs and crocuses have started their slow and steady upward mobility and the forsythia look impatient for the start of their annual yellow outbreak.

Sap is moving in the systemic systems of the trees and we will soon see the appearance of the pale green primavera, followed by mature green leaves. Migrated birds will come home, and shortly we will see and hear honking geese and the sounds of their noisy competition for desired nesting spots on ponds, we will all marvel at the enormous balletic flow of the starlings as they surf their way home like ocean tides, and we can soon anticipate the mellifluous solo performances by hundreds of songbirds.

If you look closely, you may be able to see the appearance of tiny buds, with every requisite ambition to grow; it is buds, buds, buds, everywhere. This natural development does not hang on any votes or decision by an Electoral College. Soon pussy willows, tender bulbs, daffodils, hyacinths and lilac will make their appearance; later, hydrangea and spirea will bloom, foxglove, ageratum (“black eye Susan”) and all the other loving expressions of our planet will tempt the eye and nose with remembered joy.

The daylight is increasing in honor of the arrival of the Princess of Spring and the only tweets that will matter to us at all, are those of the sparrows and chickadees; a generous and empathetic  Nature is performing  for us the desperately needed and intrinsically holy, Redemption of spring.

-p.

It is an institutional feature, appearing on every American Calendar: the 3^rd Monday of February is “President’s Day.” Originally, Washington’s Birthday, it was later coupled with Lincoln’s Birthday and eventually morphed into today’s “Presidents Day.” The holiday now is a commemoration for “all” American Presidents who have guided our nation over the hundreds of years of its existence.

It would accordingly seem necessary to establish a distinctly separate day, perhaps the Tuesday following the institutional holiday, to recognize the unique legacy of the current President, so that his memorable persona and term of occupancy of the White House will not besmirch the history of his predecessors; as the proverbial “bad apple” that “spoils the barrel.” In light of the overt reaction of so many citizens who denied his status as the leader of our country and of the free world, we might properly name it “Non-President’s day.” As far as the current holder of the office is concerned, he will predictably be delighted; his reductive and egoistic personality perceiving, simply and only, that he, no doubt for some good reason, is honored exclusively, in historic contrast to all the past Presidents.

With regard to the Presidents included as a class, in the traditional “Presidents’ Day,” many observant citizens honor the memory of one President or another by symbolic observance such as, baking   cherry pie for the Washington story about cutting down the proverbial cherry tree, wearing stovepipe hats and chopping firewood to commemorate the mythical Lincoln or the wearing of Bermuda shorts and shouting “bully” to remember Theodore Roosevelt.

Since we have, only now, created the novel American holiday, “Non-President’s Day,” we thought it fair and appropriate to furnish some assistance in its elective, symbolic commemoration:

• Without regard to the temperature, wear an (open) heavy blue coat,
• As soon as possible, purchase and wear a red tie; if the storekeeper advises you that he does not have any red ties in stock, charge out of the store, immediately, shouting the word, “loser!”
• Dye your hair orange and as well, dye your pet’s hair orange for the day; if orange is not readily available, use dirty blond color,
• Wear a printed sandwich sign advertising Ivana merchandise for sale, at least for three hours,
• Tape a smart phone to both of your ears, pre-set to ring at 3:A.M.,
• Avoid being seen in close proximity to a library, school or other institution of learning,
• Have a public rally organized at which attendees, either continuously shout, “Trump” Trump” or alternatively, “Jail Hillary!”
• Speak in superlatives about many wonderful things and then, shortly thereafter denigrate them,
• Attend as many gambling casinos as possible, in Nevada, Atlantic City or Connecticut, being sure to shout the word, “losers” at everyone with the exception of shapely blonds.

It is hoped that the above suggested observances will be of assistance to the many voters who put the new President in office, and who will have his name  and their  future pangs of conscience  enshrined for all time.

–p.

Homecoming Day at Alt. Orange University is an especially grand and festive occasion. Alumni and  vetted members of the public comprise the traditional attendees. The perennial date is April 1^st to coincide with “April Fool’s Day,” since past experience has taught the organizers that said distinct holiday is predictably and regularly recorded in the diaries of Homecoming’s regular attendees.

The event comprehends a full day and features speakers of note, as well as a number of celebrity alumni. There is a $25 attendance fee per family unit, (mandatorily, heterosexual) to defray the cost of the numerous fully armed security personnel, strategically deployed at critical posts throughout the vicinity of the University Arena, the latter named, “Bannon-Trump Patriots Hall.”

Artfully crafted (red, white and blue)  invitations to this signal event, containing safe directions to the University campus, are sent registered, return receipt, to vetted members of the voting public and additionally, distributed at suitable venues, such as gun sale emporiums, selected bars and bowling alleys and veterans meeting halls, located in the metropolitan area. The address and location of the event are clearly set forth with a general recommendation that, as possible, to travel by way of the Whitestone Bridge, since it was made by and for Americans, and is patriotically constructed, as its name expressly indicates, exclusively from “white” stone. When one arrives at the general vicinity of the destination, he will find it simple to discern the college campus since all of the buildings are in orange color, each structure uniformly having two identical wings, both of course, being “right” wings.

This year’s homecoming theme is “False Statements as Legally Protected Free Speech under the U.S. Constitution as intended by the Founders.” The right of free speech, as expressly elucidated in the promotional materials,” has been expanded, eliminating and rebutting any atavistic requirements for accuracy and factual support; said improvement being testament to the successful remission of a past societal paranoid delusion, consisting of an incessant and insatiable addiction to the significantly limiting principle of factual accuracy.”

There are many notables and celebrities expected (chiefly, alumni) who have already been steadily arriving. They have come especially to see and hear the world class alumnus, Dr. Yono Sey, the event’s principal speaker. Professor Sey is the renowned author of the authoritative volume, “The Reign of Gluteus Maximus, Successor Emperor to Constantine, of the Holy Roman Empire” [unabridged, excl. pub., Bannon Books, LLC.].

The advertised subject of Professor Sey’s remarks is, “Changes in the Classic Style of Rhetoric, Since the Recent Retirement of Cicero and Marcus Antonius.” These two great orators and avatars of the Roman Republic famously left the Senate last year to take over a small pizza parlor in Hoboken, N.J.

Also in attendance, and slated to give a scholarly talk, is the book critic (and opponent of literacy), Mr. Page Turner.  Mr. Turner also happens to be an ordained Minister and heads a congregation in St. Bigly Township, Huge Falls, N.J, and is similarly, a recognized authority on rhetoric and public speaking.

Fortunately for the program, Rev. Turner is presently available, to be substitute key speaker, since Dr. Sey has suddenly declined to speak, having left his speaker’s notes, he says, either at the gun emporium or his favorite shooting range, and has, moreover, suffered a bad stomach prominently featuring considerable gas and a consequent and disabling bellyache. Rev. Turner will speak on the timely subject, “Who needs Facts?” An exact replication follows:

“Knowledge and reference to factual accuracy is now decidedly retro, in fact, extinct, and  is deemed to be a positive development, since wallowing in facts usually leads to undesirable conclusions. Therefore, when speaking to an audience, eschew facts, that is, avoid the limitations imposed by the consideration of the necessity for factual accuracy. The time saved not reading or consulting authorities on the subject, can more usefully be spent meditating and building up your speaking voice.”

“In the classic style of the famous Roman orator, Cicero, speak slowly, in measured tones, and do so with apparent confidence regardless of subject;  but make  sure, that your button-down blue collar is clean,  buttoned up to your academic style beard and that the coffee stain on your orange sweater is not prominently  evident. When you are asked a question, be sure to say whatever is then on your mind, on or off the subject; if asked for clarification, always respond with the statement that the subject is presently undergoing further study and that you will “definitely” get back to the questioner.”

Such exemplary performances will predictably get you a great many invitations to speak at soirees and cocktail parties as guest speaker. Always be sure that upon arrival at such social affairs, to drink the host’s liquor heavily; in addition to being free, an inebriate state will effectively shield you from the uncomfortable necessity of answering specific questions.  In the event of exigent need, you can always refer to your evident drunken state and then charge off to the bathroom for regurgative relief. This tactic is a tad dramatic, but is far preferable to making a faux pas as this lecturer did in the recent past during remarks before a medical audience, when he famously asserted that a rheumatologist is an “apartment broker” (understandingly,and sympathetically dwelling on the sound of the first syllable).

Dr. Turner stated that one should, whenever possible, employ the wisest tactic of all; when invited politely to speak, always refuse based on previous engagements.

-p.

For folks who are fortunate enough to possess the trait of contemplative sensitivity, the simple act of “watching” might deservedly be analogized to the reading of good literature.  Both require the small sacrifice of the cessation of one’s previous activity and a redirected and concentrated focus on a different and discrete physical image, done in the serious pursuit of information, or simply, diversion.

Our theme word, “watching” encompasses far more complexity and dynamics than its (vitally important) ingredient, seeing. “Seeing” is a physical, purposeless, neurological phenomenon, occurring when rays of light, imported by the eye and then, by means of synaptic transmission, are directed to the brain which identifies the object for the observer. In fact, the sole similarity between seeing and “watching” is that they, respectively, are done by only one person.

The related word “surveillance,” similar to the word “watching,” has a pre-determined purpose; but unlike “watching” it is generally performed by, or on behalf of, more than one person. Some examples of its application are in crime prevention and detection, military reconnaissance and empirical scientific research; moreover, it is usually conducted with the aid of mechanical equipment. Both watching and surveillance should be audited regularly for legal and proper motivation and execution, to assure that rights of privacy and constitutional propriety are protected.

While some may view the act of watching as a passive and limited activity, only involving the solo expenditure of ocular energy, in point of fact, it is in reality and effect, a most dynamic activity and constitutes the most effective and accessible route to enlightenment and personal development; an apprentice watches his master craftsman, the surgical resident watches the attending surgeon, the student watches the teacher and the child watches his parent (the reverse is also true).

Societal behavior is watched and emulated, beginning at the pre-toddler stage of early childhood and is continued through the attainment of elder status. We are shaped, amended and develop through observation (“watching”). It is by social interaction with fellow members of our society that we are made to develop our comparative identity and self-image. Observed (watched) social behavior, interaction between the various relationships in society and transmitted “norms” are digested and metabolized.  At various times, individuals appear who possess sufficient, advanced insight and perspective to have developed the competent objectivity to determine the need for change and envision improvement.  After sufficiently observing (watching) the operation of society, they may recommend change for its further betterment, in terms of efficiency, justice or general fairness. As has analogously been the history with innovative, but great literature, that such new proposals initially may be rejected but are later greatly treasured.

In the absence of our innate inclination for substantive watching, society would be stagnant and would perpetuate practices inhibiting its betterment, as well as that of its members. Watching for the purposes of learning and comprehension, may be equally productive of wisdom as is the reading of fine literature in its aesthetic recitation of the eternal human condition.   –p

Considering the eternal, unrelenting maelstrom, surging through the entire spectrum of the media, containing disheartening and confusing news accounts, the urgent need of exhausted members of the public for a simple respite or short break is virtually palpable. In such exigent circumstance, we would strongly recommend a healing excursion to “Harmonia.” Harmonia is a province in very close proximity to where you may happen to be at any time, and the trip is exceedingly simple and effortless in every respect. No travel agent reservations, no ticket or passport, nor luggage are ever needed. There are no arrangements for ground transportation, no check-in or seat assignment required.

Travel time is uncommonly short with no consideration necessary as to time zones, and absolutely no jet lag whatsoever. Further, your unassigned seat is eternally available. Prior to embarkation, you will want to have selected a quiet moment in time such that there is little potential for third party interruption or other stimuli. The trip itself is incomparably comfortable with no flight turbulence or any other inconvenience. It is, in fact, to be experienced in your favorite easy chair, the one you preferably use for reading or listening to good music. After a last minute “flight check” of the immediate surroundings, to be assured of continued peace and non-disturbance, you gently and slowly exhale, close your eyes and, as possible, reject all extraneous thoughts. You will, no doubt, note the absence of flight attendants, pilot announcements or proffered magazines.

Once thus comfortably seated, you will be adequately prepared to commence your entry into the environs of Harmonia. On this magical voyage you will have the unprecedented luxury of a choice of either a seaside, woodland or lakeside environment. Not only will you be warmly welcomed at any of those chosen settings, but you will be strongly encouraged to make many other return visits.

Should you elect to remain in Harmonia for any extended period of time at all, it would be helpful to be acquainted with some of that province’s features, it’s very many benefits, and it’s relatively few requirements.  Additionally, you should be aware that many multiple visits will entitle you to the status of citizenship, if desired.

Every individual citizen of Harmonia is mandatorily granted one personal tree, free of charge, supplied by the province operating committee. Your designated tree would be planted at the place of your choice, or in such close proximity to you as possible, to make your visits to it convenient; suitable adjustments would be made by the operating committee should you change your venue. Arborists would be free of charge and always available in case of systemic tree problems.

In the absence of any need for an existing military or an extensive police force in the province, the unexpended capitol which would be otherwise necessary for their maintenance is added to the capital accounts of the province. Under the capable stewardship of the operating committee, said moneys are readily available for the funding of the many required free services for the inhabitants which include,  education at all levels, unlimited and  competent health service, environmental protective services, and   citizens  in need of food, clothing and adequate housing.

With regard to the subject of food, residents are encouraged to occasionally attend communal dinners hosted by citizens of alternating foreign ethnos and cultures, for the benefit of educative and neighborly experience derived from such social interaction, as well as their culinary enjoyment.

The weather is uniformly sunny and mild, and the air is clean the latter, due to the exclusive use of renewable, natural power sources such as sun, wind, hydroelectric force and suitable vegetation. Curiously, there is some suggestion of a faint, sweet floral scent, probably due to the plethora of citizen owned trees.

Libraries, art galleries and institutions of learning are regularly open to admittance and are free of   charge; if desired, credits can be accumulated for regular attendance in order to qualify for membership in the provincial operating committee.

There are very few restrictions on behavior in the province which include, the use of electronic means of conversation in lieu of natural and personal face to face talk, and  the discouragement from use of certain words such as “race, or racial,” “winner, “ loser,” “queer” and a few others, including expletives.

In keeping with our sincere and solicitous interest in the preservation of your emotional health, we would earnestly suggest that upon your return home you, initially, sit quietly for at least 15 minutes before re-entering Trump country.

-p

 

 

 

We recently commented on the “strange bedfellows” conglomerate of voters who successfully voted Donald Trump into the Presidency. We also reported that pundits and political science “mavins” had uniformly previously described him as completely unfit and totally incompetent to occupy the office since he is known to be ignorant, reductive and utterly lacking in gravitas and acceptable temperament. This glitzy game show host, undoubtedly enjoyed the attention and spotlight of the campaign but was, in truth, shocked and even dismayed,as were many others, by his unexpected victory. It had been reported that the big Orange had been busily constructing defensive rationales for his personally anticipated loss, including “media bias” and “voter fraud.” This was undoubtedly the single instance, in his showy, superficial and boastful life, in which he did not aspire to trounce the competition and be an acclaimed “winner.” But, in William Shakespeare’s words, “he was hoisted on his own petard.”

Since then, one has observed, he effectively has resembled a mortally wounded beast, completely hapless and insecure. This singular situation was strategically recognized as a rare opportunity, by a hungry flock of carrion eaters, who, after circling the wounded animal happily landed. By reason of such unholy and distasteful visitation, Trump was somehow made to feel somewhat propped up and no longer destined to lonely extinction. He instantaneously became a co-dependent of such opportunistic vultures, prominent among which, was his chief advisor and veritable Rasputin, one Steven Bannon. Mr. Bannon, as previously noted, is a recognized, proudly self-described White Supremacist and a diagnosable paranoid. His paranoia consists of a life-long belief in an ultimate Armageddon type conflict between white Christians and Islam. Further, he reasons since Russia is white and Christian, it is destined to be our future ally. This mental aberration may explain the recently attempted paradigm shift in America’s policy towards its perennial enemy, Russia.

Other vultures in the pestilent flock include an EPA Chairman who wants to eliminate that agency, a Secretary of State who is a silent partner with Russia in the oil business, a Secretary of Education who opposes public education, an Attorney General who annually receives the grade of “F” in civil rights by the NAACP, a head of the very sensitive NSA who has, in the space of only three weeks, been forced to resign because of his publically demonstrated treason ( originally, falsely denied by him, then admitted) and, a Secretary of Health who wants to terminate the  ACA and opposes Medicaid.

It may be useful and interesting to highlight the psychological breakdown of the Trump persona resulting from such unexpected election success. We would, initially however, in the interest of a virtue which of late is honored more in the breach than in its observance,” factual accuracy”, disclaim any especial factual knowledge concerning the specific subject. We might be analogized to a window shopper gazing at goods from the sidewalk and judging solely upon ocular perception. Our window is the television screen but, by contrast, we are additionally benefited by sound, most especially the remarkable, usually false, declarations of the President himself.

We presently view Donald Trump as truly scared, completely lost, over his head and in a situational state of dire panic. The only reality previously known to him was in the roles of celebrated host of a daytime game show and shrewd real estate trader. Such roles have suddenly been transmogrified to the Chief Executive in the perceived exotic and alien context of the White House. He has probably never read a federal statute, treaty or an international agreement; he has conceivably, never read the U.S. Constitution.  Everything to him is suddenly strange, confusing and shrouded in psychedelic miasma.  He is truly lost at sea. One may wonder why his wife, the First Lady, is reportedly residing 200 miles from the White House (raising a clamor concerning its substantial expense.) It is our understanding that all First Ladies, starting with Martha Washington resided at and presided over the White House.

Subjects dealt with at the Capital seem to be discussed in an alien language, utilizing exotic vocabulary, to this leader whose development and effective education probably was arrested at an adolescent age. Teenage style, simplistic telephone calls are impulsively made by him to foreign Heads of State without any thought as to their possible symbolic ramifications or to the prior existence of treaties and international understandings. Presidential statements and proclamations are openly transmitted by electronic tweets, some reportedly at 3: AM. [One can picture the man, still wearing his heavy overcoat and red tie, at the wee hours, sending tweets in a frenetic state of sweaty anxiety.]

He seems to effect a neurotic need is to be loved and admired by all Americans, yet he has thoughtlessly and viciously attacked the only two institutions historically recognized as protecting the American people, the media and the Courts.

We perceive the big Orange as completely divorced from his known element, confused and self- conscious. Has anyone seen him laugh?  Smile? He does, indeed, flash his dentures quite often, but if you look closely, they will be accurately revealed,in fact, to be grimaces. He seeks to sustain himself by repeatedly uttering self-initiated personal praise which seems to be unavailing, and appears to us as showing the emotional affect of an abject supplicant  despite his frequent  gestures of thumbs up.  We view his body language, darting eyes and repressed arrogance, as evincing discomfort, fearful insecurity and perhaps even, desolation.

It has been but four weeks and the entire Orange appears to be crushed. What’s next?

-p.

Blog # 131 ELECTRIC AVENUE (mixed media)

The sworn undertaking of the President, tactically declared throughout his campaign, and which probably led to his success among many voters, was to “drain the swamp” i.e., to rid Washington D.C. of the controlling influence of the billionaires and corporate moguls who have plagued our government. Among other voters, particularly those of minimum education and sophistication, [which we have, with apologies, termed, the “flat earth people”] unspecified promises of a better life, by the orange snake-oil demagogue, seems to have so mesmerized such voters that they were misled into voting against their own vital interests.

Unhappily, the “swamp” was not drained, rather, such tactically stated undertaking was shamefully abandoned in favor of an enlargement of the singularly unhealthy habitat. The President’s selection of cabinet secretaries does so frustratingly illustrate this clear misrepresentation as to be no less than discouraging and depressing. So, because it is the constant aspiration of pliny to maintain the equanimity and good cheer of his readers, this writing will contain an upbeat musical refrain. At the end of each illustration. Pliny  recognizes the talent and authorship of Mr. Eddy Grant in his creation, “Electric Avenue” with apologies for the substitution of one word, so that the reader, may, in the interest of keeping his mood from sinking too far think, or sing out, audibly the following refrain:

Oh we gonna rock onto Pennsylvania (orig. “Electric”) Avenue and then we take it higher.  Try it if you care to.

Our first swamp denizen, is Mr. Rex Tillerson, multibillionaire CEO of Exxon-Mobil and good friend of the evil Mr. Putin, appointed to the crucially important role of Secretary of State. Mr. Tillerson will be the first U.S. Secretary of State in our country’s entire history to have no diplomatic or foreign relations experience. The Exxon interests in Russia and Crimea have resulted in making the him, effectively, a partner with Mr. Putin and he seeks to please Russia and enhance Exxon’s profits immensely by the removal of the vital U.S. sanctions regarding Crimea. His friendship with Putin is highly prized by Mr. Steve Bannon, for reasons set forth on the other side of the next refrain. Mr. Tillerson, additionally, is no friend to the middle and lower economic class American, by his opposition Medicare and other programs for the needy.

Oh we gonna rock onto Pennsylvania Avenue and then we take it higher.

Our next inhabitant of the stagnant bayou is Mr. Steven Bannon, appointed by Trump to be his Chief Advisor (and veritable” Rasputin”.) and Chief of Staff. Mr. Bannon is a proudly self- proclaimed White Supremacist and a delusional paranoid. His lifelong delusion is that there will someday be an Armageddon scale war between white Christianity and Islam; Further, he reasons, since Russia is white and Christian, it will be our ally in the coming world conflict. This is truly bizarre, but it does explain Trump’s recent sucking up to the evil Mr. Putin. The other selections of Cabinet Secretaries also show unusual friendships with our perennial enemy, Russia.

Oh we gonna rock onto Pennsylvania Avenue and then we take it higher.

A perfect specimen of a swamp critter is Betsy DeVos, selected to be Secretary of Education. Ms. DeVos, reportedly, knows absolutely nothing about education whatsoever, but “knows enough” to oppose educational assistance to handicapped children, oppose public education and secular education and supports Christian schools for all. She graduated from an all Christian college 100% of whose alumni have publicly stated that she is “completely incompetent” and “unsuited” for the position.

Oh we gonna rock onto Pennsylvania Avenue and then we take it higher.

A real swamp alligator is Jeffrey Beauregard Sessions, perversely selected to be the U.S. Attorney General. This office is known to be the ultimate authority on redressing racial prejudice. Sessions, a shining vestigial emblem of past racial prejudice, has been annually awarded the grade of ‘“F” in the area of civil rights by the  NAACP, and was denied a Federal Judgeship  by reason of his  bigotry; There is a report that he supported the KKK until he found out that many of its members smoked pot.

Oh we gonna rock onto Pennsylvania Avenue and then we take it higher.

The selection of Tom Price, as Secretary of Health is unquestionably redolent of the dank swamp. He earnestly seeks to do away with Medicare and the ACA, wants to defund Planned Parenthood and to do away with an Obama program for the distribution of free contraceptives. He opposes same sex marriage. There are various reports of significant wealth obtained by his illegal insider trading in pharma.

Oh we gonna rock onto Pennsylvania Avenue and then we take it higher.

Kellyanne Conway, is to be a chief counsellor to the President. She has been tasked with defending Donald Trump’s sexual misbehavior and may hold the record for the most despised prevaricator on television. She has improperly, shamelessly and illegally hawked Ivana Trump merchandise on television. Pliny has wryly predicted her future establishment of a White House website for the sale of Ivana merchandise.

Oh we gonna rock onto Pennsylvania Avenue and then we take it higher.

The most remarkable swamp designee may be Scott Pruit, as head of the EPA, an agency which, in fact, he has repeatedly sued and wishes to entirely eliminate, this choice is out of Kafka or Lewis Carroll.  If more is needed, he also does not accept the uniform findings of our U.S. scientists on climate change.

Oh we gonna rock onto Pennsylvania Avenue and then we take it higher.

The selection of Mike Flynn, as head of the NSA is equally problematic and troubling.  Mr. Flynn wrongfully and no doubt, illegally, discussed U.S. sanctions against Russia with the Russian Ambassador while Obama was still in office. Subsequently, it is a proven fact that Russia wrongfully interfered in the U.S’ Election to favor Trump. We are sure Mr. Bannon was pleased but this smells even worse than the swamp. These illegal discussions were adamantly denied by Flynn and Vice President Pence, before Flynn finally, admitted them. It is reported that   Flynn’s military colleagues believe the he regularly, and deliberately, utters false facts. Bannon must be pleased that Flynn is a fan of Putin and not a truthful person Imagine, head of the NSA!!

Oh we gonna rock onto Pennsylvania Avenue and then we take it higher.

The new Secretary of Labor, Andrew Puzdar is no stranger to swampland ecology. He was described by the magazine, American Prospect, as “The very worst appointee for low income workers and for the Labor Movement”. Among other things, he has opposed a federal minimum wage.

Oh we gonna rock onto Pennsylvania Avenue and then we take it higher.

Sonny Purdue, our new Agriculture Secretary, will be our last illustration, but there are others. Mr. Purdue (not the chicken man) is in the fertilizer industry and is expected to champion the product even though he is one of the folks responsible for polluting the local drinking water and turning Lake Erie the color Green. What swamp cleanup was the orange haired snake oil salesman talking about?

Keep singing!

-p