The poll-driven, focus-tested, stage-managed, shape-shifted, image-projected, and offense-avoiding nature of contemporary politics has drained the life out of it. Donald Trump probably gets some support just because he’s not so bland, and he’s not afraid to insult his opponents. There was a time when the political insult was an art form. Look at this one from John Randolph (1773-1883), US Congressman, directed at his bitter political opponent, Henry Clay:
He is a man of splendid abilities but utterly corrupt. He shines and stinks, like a rotten mackerel by moonlight.
They don’t come any better than that: pithy, with compelling imagery. Trump should borrow this one against Hillary. Randolph and Clay fought a duel, and that’s another long-lost political tradition that should be reinstated. Worse case, both duelists miss (like Randolph and Clay); better case, one finds his or her mark; best case, they both do. Two less politicians!
